Off the PitchFootball ItaliaUnverified source· 9 Aug 2026
Maldini: Italy role exit a 'real shame'
Paolo Maldini opens up on his 17-day FIGC stint, revealing failed attempts to hire Guardiola and Ancelotti.
Who
Paolo Maldini
What
Resigned as FIGC technical director after 17 days
When
After 17 days in role
Where
Italy (FIGC)
What happened. Paolo Maldini resigned as FIGC technical director after 17 days, citing lack of promised authority, and has now detailed his experience in an interview.
- Maldini tried to appoint Ancelotti and Guardiola but was rejected.
- His move to hire Pirlo was blocked.
- He praised Franco Baresi as an example of leadership.
“I want to do things the right way and I want to say things clearly.”
— Paolo Maldini
Maldini warns FIGC against focusing solely on rebuilding the national team.
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