Off the PitchFootball ItaliaUnverified source· 28 Jul 2026
Maldini quits Italy role after 16 days over Pirlo snub
Paolo Maldini resigned as Italy technical director after just 16 days, feeling betrayed by FIGC's refusal to appoint Andrea Pirlo.
D. Maldini
player
Who
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo
What
Resigned as Italy technical director and advisor
When
After 16 days in charge
Why
FIGC refused to hire Andrea Pirlo as coach
What happened. Paolo Maldini and Leonardo resigned after 16 days as Italy's technical director and advisor, following FIGC President Giovanni Malagò's refusal to appoint Andrea Pirlo as national team coach.
- Maldini felt betrayed, saying 'They do not want change.'
- Malagò pushed for Conte or Mancini instead of Pirlo.
- Maldini and Leonardo's proposal of Thiago Motta was also rejected.
“They do not want change.”
— Paolo Maldini
Maldini and Leonardo realized their decision-making autonomy was compromised, prompting their resignation.
In this story
ItalyMore to read
Sky Sports
Maldini quits as Italy technical director after 16 days over head coach saga
Mirror Football
Italy in turmoil as legend ready to quit 16 days into job after manager pick blocked
Football Italia
Chiellini among alternatives if Maldini leaves Italy position
Football Italia
Maldini and Van Basten among legends present for Baresi funeral
