Just 16 days after their official appointment, Paolo Maldini (technical director) and Leonardo (advisor) have submitted their irrevocable resignation to the FIGC. The decision comes after the federation reversed course on the hiring of Andrea Pirlo, a move that triggered the collapse of the executive leadership.
With the departure of the leadership duo, the option of hiring Thiago Motta has been completely ruled out. Roberto Mancini now emerges as President Giovanni Malagò's leading candidate to take charge of the Azzurra, while Antonio Conte remains an alternative backed by the Lega Serie A.
At the same time, the federation is considering appointing Giorgio Chiellini as the new technical director. Malagò's priority will be to decide whether to name the sporting director first or move directly to the selection of the new coach.
