Italy and Milan legend Gianni Rivera has openly criticised the leadership of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the decision to re-appoint Roberto Mancini as the national team’s head coach. His comments come as the FIGC faces significant internal turmoil, including potential changes at its highest level.
The federation is currently grappling with leadership uncertainty, with Giovanni Malagò, the recently elected FIGC President, facing the prospect of stepping down. Reports suggest Malagò’s position is precarious due to a technicality regarding his registration as an Italian FA member at the time of his election. Adding to the instability, Diana Bianchedi, who was appointed by Malagò as the delegation chief for the Italy national team, resigned from her role recently.
Amidst this backdrop, Rivera, a former Ballon d’Or winner, has reiterated his long-standing belief in the need for a special commissioner to oversee the FIGC. He has also made himself available for such a role should the federation be placed under commissioner control. Rivera stated his disagreement with Malagò’s election and expressed even stronger reservations about Mancini’s return to lead the Azzurri.
Rivera had previously put himself forward as a candidate for the FIGC Presidency before Malagò’s election. He believes that placing the association under a special commissioner would be a beneficial move, a stance he has consistently held.
In related remarks, Rivera also touched upon his relationship with his former club, Milan, noting that he was not invited to their 125th-anniversary celebration in 2024. He also paid tribute to his late Italy teammate and club rival, Sandro Mazzola, who passed away in September.