Off the PitchFootball ItaliaUnverified source· 5 Aug 2026
Zola handed Italy youth coordinator role
The Azzurri legend returns to the national setup to shape Italy's next generation.
Who
Gianfranco Zola
What
Appointed youth activity coordinator
When
Confirmed now
Where
Italy national team setup
What happened. FIGC President Giovanni Malagò confirmed Gianfranco Zola will join Roberto Mancini and Claudio Ranieri as coordinator of youth activity for Italy's national teams, from academies up to Under-21.
- Zola will also remain vice-president of Lega Pro.
- Malagò praised Zola's charisma and work with young players.
- Ranieri and Malagò strongly wanted Zola for the role.
“Zola’s charisma, his preparation, and the efforts to help young players... represent the best foundations on which to build our future.”
— Giovanni Malagò
Zola's appointment completes the FIGC's revamp aimed at revitalizing Italian football's youth development.
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