The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has been plunged into fresh turmoil after Paolo Maldini resigned as technical director just 16 days after his appointment, with his adviser Leonardo also stepping down. The departures follow the decision not to proceed with talks to appoint Andrea Pirlo as Italy head coach because of concerns over his connections to a Russian gambling company.
Short-lived overhaul collapses
The dual exit marks a swift reversal of a planned shake-up at the FIGC that was announced in the wake of Italy missing out on World Cup qualification for a third consecutive tournament. FIGC president Giovanni Malagò is now leading the search for a new coach, with Roberto Mancini reported as the current frontrunner.
- Maldini and Leonardo left their posts after only 16 days.
- Andrea Pirlo was removed from contention because of links to a Russian bookmaker, ending his run as the leading candidate.
- Roberto Mancini, who previously managed Italy from 2018 and led them to the Euro 2020 title, is the favoured choice.
Who else is in the frame?
Reports say former national manager Antonio Conte is a possible option, although there has been no direct contact reported. The FIGC is also considering candidates for the technical director role to replace Maldini, with names such as Giorgio Chiellini, Giuseppe Bergomi and Claudio Ranieri mentioned.
| Person | Role/status |
|---|---|
| Paolo Maldini | Resigned as technical director (after 16 days) |
| Leonardo | Resigned (adviser) |
| Andrea Pirlo | Ruled out over links to a Russian betting firm |
| Roberto Mancini | Leading candidate for head coach |
Implications and next steps
The FIGC's quick backtrack exposes governance and reputational challenges as it tries to rebuild after a period of sporting failure. The shortlist of candidates illustrates a tension between experience and fresh direction: Mancini offers a known winning formula, having guided Italy to European Championship success, while other names under consideration point to a search for stability in both managerial and technical leadership.
At the same time, the decision to exclude Pirlo over commercial ties spotlights how off-field relationships can immediately shape high-profile coaching appointments. With the head coach post vacant following Gennaro Gattuso's departure, the FIGC faces a delicate balance — resolving internal disruption quickly while ensuring the next appointment withstands scrutiny both on and off the pitch.
The process is ongoing and the federation has not made a final decision. In the short term, Malagò will continue to steer the recruitment effort amid significant public and media attention.
