Boban: Maldini didn't betray Italy; Guardiola deserves thanks

Boban defends Maldini's brief Italy stint and praises Guardiola for declining the job.

What happened. Zvonimir Boban insists Paolo Maldini did not betray agreements with the FIGC during his brief spell as Italy's technical director, and says everyone should thank Pep Guardiola for turning down the coaching role.

• Guardiola declined due to not feeling up to it.
• Maldini's alternative Andrea Pirlo was blocked by a scandal.
• Boban says Maldini's autonomy was undermined.

“The fact that he [Guardiola] didn’t feel up to it is crucial.”

— Zvonimir Boban

Boban's comments add perspective on Italy's coaching saga this summer.

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D. MaldiniGuardiola

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