Key Takeaways:
- Paolo Maldini has been considering his future with the Italy national team just 15 days after his appointment as technical director
- Andrea Pirlo’s candidacy for head coach was blocked due to legal and political issues related to his role with Fonbet
- If Maldini resigns, Giorgio Chiellini could be offered the position, with Antonio Conte as a possible managerial appointment
Turbulence in Italy National Team Management
The Italy national football team finds itself in a state of upheaval, with Paolo Maldini reflecting on his short tenure as technical director merely 15 days after stepping into the role. Italian reports indicate that Giorgio Chiellini has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Maldini should he choose to step down.
If Paolo Maldini resigns, Italy could offer the technical director role to Giorgio Chiellini.
📰 Gazzetta pic.twitter.com/LzpiO1wRaW
— Italian Football TV (@IFTVofficial) July 26, 2026
Challenges in Appointing a New Head Coach
Efforts to secure a new head coach have faced significant obstacles. With both Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti out of consideration, Maldini turned to his former Milan colleague Andrea Pirlo, who is currently under contract with Dubai United in the UAE. Although speculation surged over the weekend regarding Pirlo’s imminent arrival, complications arose upon the revelation that Pirlo serves as a global brand ambassador for a Russian betting company. This affiliation presented a host of legal, moral, and political challenges, ultimately resulting in Pirlo’s exclusion from contention. Pirlo himself confirmed earlier today that he would not be pursuing the position of Italy’s head coach.
Maldini’s Frustration and Chiellini’s Prospects
The continuing managerial disarray has tested Maldini’s resolve, with numerous Italian media outlets suggesting that he may tender his resignation. Should this materialise, FIGC President Giovanni Malagò would need to act rapidly to identify an interim replacement.
Maldini is anticipated to reach a decision swiftly, possibly as soon as Monday. Should he step down, Malagò could present a proposal to Chiellini during Tuesday’s scheduled FIGC federal council meeting in Rome.
Next Steps and Strategic Implications
Currently, Chiellini holds the role of Chief Club Affairs Officer, with prior experience as the head of institutional relations. Should Chiellini be installed within the FIGC leadership, his preference would likely be to appoint his former Juventus manager, Antonio Conte, as Italy’s next head coach.
