Paolo Maldini to reject Italy technical director offer

Paolo Maldini is reportedly leaning towards turning down a newly created technical director role for the Italy national team, should it be offered by FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. The former AC Milan legend, who earned 126 senior caps for Italy, has already declined similar high‑profile appointments.

Sport Mediaset reported that the proposal for the technical director position has been put forward by FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. The report said the offer is pending Maldini’s decision.

The new President of the Italian Football Federation has repeatedly named Maldini as the ideal candidate to take control of the Nazionale. The role of technical director does not currently exist within the national team structure and would be moulded around the former Milan star.

A July 12, 2020 photograph shows Paolo Maldini, then AC Milan technical director, alongside coach Stefano Pioli before the Serie A clash between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio San Paolo. The image was captured by photographer Francesco Pecoraro for Getty Images.

Maldini accumulated 126 senior caps for Italy during his playing career and secured every major trophy available with AC Milan. After retiring, he assumed a directorial position at San Siro in 2018.

He was dismissed from his technical director role in June 2023 amid controversy. Observers note that the side has struggled to regain stability since his departure.

Maldini met Fenerbahce presidential candidate Hakan Safi, as shown on Instagram. He had previously refused several other offers and was prepared to help run Fenerbahce if Safi won, but the position ultimately went to Aziz Yildirim.