Paolo Maldini has agreed to become the Italian Football Federation’s new technical director, signing a four-year contract to oversee the national team’s rebuild. The position was created specifically for the former Milan defender, who assumes the role three years after his departure from club football.
A new structure for the Azzurri
The appointment sees Maldini take on unprecedented responsibility within the FIGC, with federation president Giovanni Malagò designing the post to encompass technical direction of the senior side and oversight of the development pathway. Former teammate Leonardo will support him in an advisory capacity, reuniting the pair who previously worked together at Milan.
Their most pressing responsibility is identifying Italy’s next head coach. Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini figure among the candidates for the position as the federation seeks to end a period of decline and secure qualification for future tournaments.
Recovering from World Cup failures
The move comes with Italian football at its lowest point in modern history. The national team has missed three consecutive World Cups, forcing the federation to reach for a figure of Maldini’s stature to restore credibility. The project aims to relaunch the Azzurri ahead of the next World Cup cycle.
Maldini’s return marks his first frontline role since leaving Milan. His playing career saw him win five European Cups across 25 years, making him the most decorated Italian defender of his generation. Whether that pedigree translates into administrative success will depend heavily on his first major decision: selecting the right manager to reverse the team’s fortunes and return Italy to the top level of international football.