Italy in Chaos: Maldini Could Step Down if Pirlo Is Not Appointed Head Coach

The search for the next head coach of the Italian national team is changing by the hour. Following Pep Guardiola’s rejection, technical director Paolo Maldini, together with adviser Leonardo, selected Andrea Pirlo to lead the Azzurri after Italy’s third consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup.

However, just when the agreement appeared close to being finalized, the first obstacles emerged. Pirlo has faced intense controversy over his role as a global ambassador for the Russian betting company Fonbet.

FIGC president Giovanni Malagò has requested more time to assess the situation. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, he wants further clarification regarding Pirlo’s connections with Fonbet and Russian oligarch Sergey Lomakin, the president of United FC.

What Is Happening?

Paolo Maldini was not prepared for such a controversy, which now involves political as well as technical issues. The technical director could find himself responsible not only for Pirlo’s results on the pitch but also for matters outside football.

Malagò has reportedly reconsidered other alternatives, exploring the possibility of bringing back Antonio Conte or Roberto Mancini. However, Maldini does not agree with either option.

He wants a coach capable of beginning a long-term project. Conte is known for frequently changing clubs, while Mancini remains an unconvincing option because of his turbulent departure from the national team in 2023.

Could Maldini Step Down?

It is still too early to determine whether this situation represents the first major rift among the Italian Football Federation’s senior officials. However, Maldini accepted the technical director position only after receiving assurances that he would be allowed to choose the new head coach.

For this reason, if Pirlo is not appointed as Italy’s next manager, the possibility of Maldini resigning cannot be ruled out.

Leonardo’s Decisive Role

Leonardo could play a crucial role amid the growing chaos. Officially, he serves as an adviser, but he could become the main mediator if events do not unfold according to Maldini’s plans.

Pirlo is currently negotiating the termination of his relationship with United FC. According to his representatives, his role as Fonbet’s global ambassador is also connected to that association.

If Pirlo does not become Italy’s new head coach, Leonardo may face the difficult task of mediating between Maldini, Malagò and the other parties involved.