Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have resigned from their respective roles at the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) just weeks after assuming their posts. The departure follows reported disagreements concerning the selection process for the new coach of the Italian national team. The technical director position for the Club Italia project was established by the new FIGC president, Giovanni Malagò.
This initiative was designed to grant the national team greater operational autonomy and establish a modernized structure for Italian football development. Maldini and Leonardo were tasked with the significant responsibility of developing a new identity for the sport within Italy, coordinating efforts between the various youth national teams and the club academies. Despite their mandate, the project reportedly encountered several structural difficulties.
Initial objectives for the Italian squad included the appointment of high-profile coaches such as Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola. The internal disagreements regarding the coaching appointment proved to be a significant point of contention. Ultimately, the inability to align on the strategic direction and leadership for the national team led to the decision by Maldini and Leonardo to step down.
Their tenure was marked by efforts to restructure the pathway for Italian talent, but the disagreements over the team’s technical leadership prompted their resignation from the FIGC.
Topics: #maldini #leonardo #italian
