Paolo Maldini Appointed Technical Director for Italy's National Football Teams

Following Italy's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Italian Football Federation is undergoing a period of restructuring. Giovanni Malagò, who was elected president of the federation last month, has taken a significant step by establishing a new system for the national teams.

In an announcement on the federation's website, Malagò revealed that the 58-year-old Paolo Maldini has been appointed as the technical supervisor for the national teams. Additionally, former Brazilian-born Italian footballer Leonardo Araujo will act as Maldini's advisor.

Malagò stated that Maldini will also head the "Club Italia" within the new structure. "Bringing Maldini here was always my goal," Malagò said. "I thought he could be the right person to oversee the federation's technical structure, not just the senior national team but all the youth national teams. We discussed all the projects and details for two weeks, and Paolo immediately said he would be pleased to include Leonardo as an advisor because the job is comprehensive, challenging, and arduous. I am pleased because I have deep respect for Leonardo."

Italian sports media reports suggest that Maldini's position is unprecedented in Italian football. The federation is also reportedly considering Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini as potential candidates for the senior national team's head coach position, with an announcement expected soon.

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Bringing Maldini here was always my goal. I thought he could be the right person to oversee the federation's technical structure, not just the senior national team but all the youth national teams. We discussed all the projects and details for two weeks, and Paolo immediately said he would be pleased to include Leonardo as an advisor because the job is comprehensive, challenging, and arduous. I am pleased because I have deep respect for Leonardo.