La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Paolo Maldini, Italy’s technical director, has earmarked Andrea Pirlo as the preferred candidate to lead the national side.
Giovanni Malagò, the FIGC president, is expected to meet Pirlo in the near future to discuss the appointment, a step that could formalise the former midfielder’s transition from club coaching to the international arena.
A pivotal crossroads
Pirlo’s coaching pedigree includes spells at Juventus and Sampdoria, as well as a current role in charge of United FC in the UAE Pro League, giving him a blend of domestic and overseas experience.
While Antonio Conte remains a popular name among supporters, the article notes that Roberto Mancini enjoys a particular rapport with Malagò, though both are viewed as secondary to Pirlo in the technical director’s calculations.
Maldini’s endorsement carries particular weight because, as the FIGC’s technical chief, he holds the final say in coaching appointments, a authority that could decisively shape the federation’s next move.
The impending meeting between Malagò and Pirlo will likely illuminate the federation’s timeline, but for now the narrative points toward a leadership change that could redefine Italy’s approach on the world stage.