Paolo Maldini will take on the role of technical director for the Italian Football Federation, federation president Giovanni Malagò announced Friday, handing the legendary defender a four-year mandate aimed at rebuilding the national team ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Maldini's immediate task is to select a new head coach for the men's national team, a position vacant since Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April 2026. He will also be appointed president of Club Italia, the federation's internal body overseeing national squads. Malagò said the mandate is designed to carry Italy through the European Championship and on to the 2030 World Cup.
Former sporting director Leonardo will serve as advisor alongside Maldini, providing strategic support as the federation seeks to restore its footballing standing after a turbulent spell.