Maldini to lead Italy as technical director, Conte as coach

FIGC President Giovanni Malagò is prioritising the appointment of Milan legend Paolo Maldini as technical director of the Italy national team, offering him unprecedented powers, while former Juventus coach Antonio Conte is slated to become head coach. The plan, backed by Lega Serie A, is set for discussion at the federal council meeting on Wednesday. La dello Sport Malagò’s ideal plan is to first install Maldini as technical director and then appoint Conte as head coach. The newspaper says the Italian FA would seek to confirm Maldini’s role before bringing in Conte. Lega Serie A and its representatives gave their support to Malagò during the recent FIGC presidential elections. Their backing reinforces the proposed hierarchy for the national team set‑up. If Maldini accepts, he would receive full control over the technical and youth sectors, creating a new ‘Club Italia’ structure. This would grant him unprecedented authority within the Italy national team framework.

Antonio Conte appointed Italy coach on four-year deal

There are suggestions that Gianfranco Zola could play a more prominent role in the arrangement. Zola currently serves as vice‑president of the Lega Pro (Serie C). The proposals are expected to be debated at the federal council meeting on Wednesday. The council will decide whether to formalise the technical director and head coach appointments. La dello Sport hints that the plan lacks a clear backup strategy. SportItalia reported on Wednesday that Maldini is not entirely convinced about taking over as technical director. A photo from October 1, 2022 shows Paolo Maldini of AC Milan watching the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC Milan at Stadio Carlo Castellani in Empoli, Italy.