FIGC presidential candidates amid Maldini's departure

Paolo Maldini, a former great, recently took over as Italy's technical director. His resignation has highlighted the need for leadership and direction within the Italian Football Confederation (FIGC). There was a massive restructuring plan behind Maldini's appointment, but now his departure has complicated the process.

Why it matters

Paolo Maldini's resignation as technical director marks a turning point in Italian football. His resignation has raised questions over Italy's national team restructuring plans, especially as the country recently set a record three consecutive exits to football's most prestigious tournament. Now, the FIGC will have to focus on appointing a new technical director to strengthen the team's position.

Key points

• The presidential candidates of the FIGC amid Maldini's departure.
• Giancarlo Abbate says Italy should focus on appointing a technical director after Maldini decided to step down in just 15 days..
• FIGC presidential candidate calls for speedy technical director appointment amid Maldini exit rumours.

Italy should focus on appointing a new technical director, not the head coach. This statement comes from Giancarlo Abbate, former president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), who recently commented on reports that Paolo Maldini has resigned from his post in just 15 days.

Maldini was appointed Italy's technical director on 12 July, with former Brazilian international Leonardo serving as his advisor. The driving force behind this appointment was a massive restructuring plan for the Italy national team. In March, Italy set a record for three consecutive exits from football's most prestigious tournament when they lost on penalties in a qualifier play-off against Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Maldini tried to attract Pep Guardiola to coach Italy and also held talks with Carlo Ancelotti, but both coaches turned down the role. After that, he considered his former teammate Andrea Pirlo as the next option, but he stepped down from the role on Monday. Many public figures in Italy opposed Pirlo's candidacy, as he was a brand ambassador for a Russian betting company. When Pirlo's appointment was cancelled, reports said Maldini and Leonardo resigned from their posts.

Abete told reporters that there was no clarity on the relationship between Maldini and Malago. He also said that the appointment of the technical director should be given priority, so that the appointment of the head coach can be handled properly. He said, "We should all be adults and try to restart the project of identifying a technical director. If this is Malgo's project – and he made it known several times that the sporting aspect will be entrusted to Maldini – then the first problem will be to choose a technical director."

According to reports, Roberto Mancini is considered the favorite to return as head coach of the Azzurri. He oversaw Italy's success against England in the Euro 2020 final. Mancini also served as coach during Italy's failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, and later controversially resigned in August 2023 to take the Saudi Arabia job. Italy next face Belgium on September 25, while Türkiye and France will be their other opponents.

What will happen next

Abate has suggested that Italy should prioritize the appointment of a technical director, who will help in the appointment of a head coach. Meanwhile, following the resignations of Maldini and Leonardo, Italy will need to look for a capable technical director who can secure the future of the national team. Possible candidates may include the names of former players and experienced coaches, who can help give a new direction to Italian football.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Paolo Maldini resign?

Paolo Maldini resigned from his post in just 15 days, citing restructuring plans for the Italy national team.

Who confirmed Maldini's resignation?

Giancarlo Abbate, former president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has commented about Maldini's resignation.

What did Abete say on the appointment of technical director?

Abate said Italy should focus on appointing a new technical director, not the head coach.

maldini

Which coach tried to attract to coach Italy?

Maldini had tried to attract Pep Guardiola to coach Italy.

Why was Andrea Pirlo's candidacy opposed?

Andrea Pirlo's candidacy was opposed because he was a brand ambassador for a Russian betting company.

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