Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have stepped down from their positions within the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), as reported by Sky Sport Italia. This departure marks a significant blow for the four-time world champions, who are currently struggling with a profound football crisis following their third consecutive failure to qualify for a World Cup.
This sudden turn of events occurred just days after the pair, both former AC Milan icons, committed to leading a substantial restructuring of the Italian game. Maldini had been named technical director, with Leonardo serving as his adviser. The FIGC had introduced these roles earlier this month as a cornerstone for revitalizing the national team and preparing for the 2030 World Cup.
Maldini’s tenure lasted only 16 days. His departure leaves a void in the search for a new head coach, a role that became vacant following the exit of Gennaro Gattuso. Italy’s path forward has been hindered by their absence from the 2026 tournament, following similar misses in 2018 and 2022, even after their 2021 European Championship victory.
The coaching hunt has been fraught with difficulties, as attempts to secure Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola were unsuccessful. Andrea Pirlo was later considered, yet he eventually withdrew his name due to controversy surrounding his partnership with the betting firm Fonbet. These administrative obstacles, combined with the resignations of Maldini and Leonardo, place Italian football in a state of deep uncertainty regarding its future leadership and long-term recovery.
