The name of Paolo Maldini is firmly back in the spotlight in connection with the Italian National Team. CONI president Giovanni Malagò has made statements that give real weight to the possibility: when asked directly about Maldini as a potential Technical Director of the Azzurri, Malagò declined to deny it — a non-answer that, in football’s diplomatic language, often signals something concrete is in the works.
Malagò’s Words
“I am mortified that I cannot give a name right now, but in recent days I have become aware of the feeling, here in Italy, that there are 60 million coaches out there,” the CONI president stated. Malagò explained that in the past the federation president would choose the national team coach “in great solitude,” whereas today the approach needs to be different: alongside the head coach, the federation wants a key reference figure — the Technical Director, who might also take on the role of Club Italia President — capable of supporting decisions with genuine expertise and first-hand experience.
“Courage is not what I lack,” he added, “but I want to lean on someone who knows more than I do.” A profile like Paolo Maldini‘s — universally respected in world football for his playing career and managerial track record — appears to tick every box.
Maldini Is Coming Around to the Idea
Sources suggest that Paolo Maldini is increasingly inclined to accept this role. For the legendary former Milan captain, it would represent a challenge of the highest prestige: steering Italy’s technical vision during a period of rebuilding and renewed ambition, following years of mixed results on the international stage.
Maldini brings not only the symbolic weight of one of the greatest Italian footballers of all time, but also a significant track record in management accumulated during his years at AC Milan, where he served as Technical Director — overseeing, among other things, the 2021-22 Serie A title — before parting ways with the club in June 2023.
A Path That Could Lead Him Back to Milan
The chapter between Maldini and AC Milan closed abruptly, but perhaps not permanently. An experience leading Italy’s football programme could serve as a springboard for an eventual return to Milanello, potentially in an even more strategic capacity. This is not wishful thinking: Sandro Tonali himself recently left the door open to a future return to Milan, and Maldini — arguably the club’s most iconic figure — could one day follow a similar path.
For now, all attention is on the national team. Malagò will be pitchside on Friday, and significant announcements regarding the Azzurri’s technical staff are expected imminently. Italian football looks to Maldini with hope: expertise, charisma and a surname that speaks for itself.
