Zoff: Give Maldini freedom to rebuild
Dino Zoff has urged the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to grant Paolo Maldini complete autonomy after appointing him technical director of the national team. The 1982 World Cup-winning captain believes Maldini must be free to “follow his beliefs” without external interference as Italy attempts to reverse a decline that has seen the four-time champions miss the last three World Cup tournaments.
Zoff, who managed Maldini during the latter stages of his playing career, praised the appointment as ideal given the former defender’s standing. In an interview with Il Resto del Carlino, he highlighted Maldini’s service to Italian football and recalled the player’s father Cesare, who served as Enzo Bearzot’s assistant when Italy lifted the trophy in 1982. “I can’t forget his father Cesare either,” Zoff said. “Paolo has given so much for our football.”
New FIGC structure
Maldini has signed a four-year contract that runs until the conclusion of the 2030 World Cup, giving him two full qualification cycles to oversee the Azzurri’s technical operations. He will work under new FIGC President Giovanni Malago, who recently replaced Gabriele Gravina, alongside former Milan teammate Leonardo. The ex-Paris Saint-Germain and Rossoneri director will serve as an advisor to Maldini.
Zoff endorsed the inclusion of Leonardo, noting that leaders should surround themselves with colleagues they trust. He added that Maldini should exercise the same independence when selecting the next national team coach, though he declined to suggest candidates himself. “I don’t have a name to suggest,” Zoff said. “Maldini has to be free to follow his beliefs.”
Call for organisational clarity
The former Juventus and Lazio coach emphasised that clear lines of responsibility will prove essential to the new regime’s success. He stressed the need for clarity regarding roles throughout the federation setup. “I don’t doubt Malago, I know him well,” Zoff said. He expressed hope that the entire organisation understands the current challenges facing the national side.
Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2022, 2018 and 2014 World Cups represents the nation’s darkest period in modern football history. Maldini now faces the immediate task of appointing a new head coach and rebuilding the technical infrastructure ahead of qualification for the 2026 tournament in North America.