Italy Fears Maldini Rejection, Considers Other Directors for National Team Role

The Italian Football Federation faces uncertainty in its search for a new sporting director, with its primary target, Paolo Maldini, reportedly leaning towards rejecting the offer. This potential refusal has prompted the federation to explore alternative candidates for the crucial role.

Federation president Giovanni Malago had envisioned a sporting director who would have significant oversight of the national team's strategic direction, including the selection of the head coach. This position, which does not currently exist within the federation's structure, was seen as a key element in Malago's plan to revitalize the Azzurri. Maldini, a revered figure in Italian football from his playing days with AC Milan and the national team, was the president's first choice to fill this newly proposed role.

However, reports indicate that Maldini is undecided and inclined to decline the proposal. This hesitation has led the federation to cast a wider net. Sky Sport Italia and journalist Gianluca Di Marzio have reported that other prominent names are now being considered. Among those mentioned are Claudio Ranieri, a seasoned manager, and Gianluigi Buffon, an iconic goalkeeper. The possibility of Buffon taking on this executive role, however, is described as weak, given his recent involvement as a player.