Overview
- The federation has confirmed Paolo Maldini as technical director with Leonardo serving as his adviser to lead the coach search and wider technical review.
- Maldini, Leonardo and FIGC president Giovanni Malagò have met to finalise a shortlist and expect to name a new Italy head coach imminently.
- Andrea Pirlo has surfaced as an unexpected front-runner reportedly backed by Maldini and Leonardo while Antonio Conte has fallen in prominence and Roberto Mancini remains a realistic option.
- Pep Guardiola is being discussed as a high-profile prospect but FIGC sources say cost and compatibility with the federation’s reform plan make his appointment unlikely.
- The hire is meant to signal a broader overhaul of youth development, scouting and federation-club relations and will be shaped by tight budgets and urgent FIGC deadlines.