Malagò on Italy Coach Search: Guardiola Talks, Pirlo Deal Fell Through, Maldini Departs

Giovanni Malagò, the FIGC Commissioner, has shed light on the turbulent summer that led to Roberto Mancini's return as Italy's coach. He shared details of discussions with Pep Guardiola and how Andrea Pirlo's potential appointment fell apart.

Speaking to La Repubblica, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Malagò discussed the situation that saw Paolo Maldini and Leonardo step down after only 16 days leading the Italian football structure.

“I wanted Roberto from the beginning, and I stand by that,” Malagò stated. “I believe I grasp football, but my aim was to delegate the national team's management to others and concentrate on organizational aspects, resources, sponsorships, and diplomatic and institutional duties.”

Malagò initially entrusted Maldini with the project, expecting him to align on the coaching choice. He also agreed to have Leonardo share the responsibilities.

Maldini and Leonardo met with Guardiola. “I personally never contacted Guardiola, but Maldini and Leonardo spent the entire evening with him. Pep was straightforward. He’s taking a sabbatical, partly due to family reasons, but if he had decided to take on a role, it would have been with us.”

Maldini then sought someone from Italy's 2006 World Cup-winning squad and turned his attention to Pirlo. However, this plan was halted when Pirlo's involvement with a Russian betting company came to light.

“Neither he nor I were aware of Pirlo’s contract. At that point, I decided to end the process. Was I devastated? Not at all,” Malagò explained. “Until then, I had been supportive of Maldini, though I hoped he would eventually agree with my preferred candidate. Ultimately, there was nothing left to do but offer thanks and part ways. I’m a fatalist.”

Communication between Malagò and Maldini has been minimal since. “I spoke with Maldini a few days after we parted ways, but not since. I plan to visit him in Milan after the vote, if he is amenable.”