There are increasing indications that Paolo Maldini may refuse the opportunity to become Italy’s technical director. Should he decline, other prominent candidates being considered include Claudio Ranieri and a potential return for Gianluigi Buffon in a leadership capacity.
The newly appointed FIGC President, Giovanni Malagò, had outlined a plan to revitalize the national team as part of his platform, which included the creation of a technical director position. This role is currently absent from the Azzurri’s structure.
Technical Director to Oversee Coach Selection
The proposed strategy is for the technical director to be responsible for choosing the new national team coach, ensuring alignment in vision and strategy for the future of the Italian squad.
While Maldini was initially the top choice, recent reports from Sport Mediaset suggest he is leaning towards a rejection. Sky Sport Italia has since corroborated that he appears hesitant to accept the role.
In light of this potential withdrawal, transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio has highlighted alternative candidates for the technical director position. Among them are Claudio Ranieri, the former coach and director of Roma, and Gianluigi Buffon. Buffon’s potential return might present challenges, given his recent resignation from his role as Head of Delegation following Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup play-offs. Previously, his position was more focused on team morale rather than decision-making authority. If he were to return, it would be in a significantly different capacity, involving the crucial task of selecting the new coach.
