Paolo Maldini has been offered unprecedented powers to take on the role of technical director of the Italy national team. On Thursday, reports emerged that the Italian FA are willing to give Maldini full control over the technical and youth sectors of the national team set-up.
What happened?
The newly-elected FIGC President Giovanni Malagò is pushing to appoint both Antonio Conte and Paolo Maldini to leadership roles within the Italy national team set-up. Maldini's appointment as technical director is currently the bigger priority.
The Italian FA are willing to offer Maldini unprecedented powers, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport. This plan is reportedly supported by the Lega Serie A and its representatives.
Why it matters for Paolo Maldini
If Maldini were to accept the role, he would have full control over the technical and youth sectors of the national team set-up. This would be a significant development for Maldini, who has been out of the spotlight in recent years.
Maldini's potential appointment has been met with excitement from fans and pundits alike. The former AC Milan defender is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
What comes next?
The ideas are expected to be discussed at length at the next meeting of the federal council on Wednesday. There are some causes for concern, however, as La Gazzetta dello Sport hints that there is not much of a back-up plan at this stage.
SportItalia reported on Wednesday that Maldini is not entirely convinced about taking over as technical director of the Italy national team. This has raised questions about the future of the national team and who will take on the role if Maldini declines.
The situation is complex, with many factors at play. Gianfranco Zola could potentially play a more prominent role in the new set-up, according to reports. The former Italy international is currently serving as the vice-President of the Lega Pro (Serie C).
On October 1, 2022, Maldini was seen looking on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC Milan at Stadio Carlo Castellani. This was a rare public appearance for the former defender.
The Italian FA will be hoping that Maldini will accept the role and bring his expertise to the national team set-up. With his wealth of experience and knowledge, Maldini could be a major asset to the team.
Only time will tell if Maldini will take on the role. For now, fans and pundits will have to wait and see how the situation develops. The next meeting of the federal council on Wednesday will be closely watched, as the future of the national team hangs in the balance.
The reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport have sparked a lot of interest and debate. Many are excited about the prospect of Maldini taking on a key role with the national team.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Paolo Maldini is a highly respected and influential figure in Italian football. His potential appointment as technical director of the Italy national team is a major development that will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.