Paolo Maldini resigned as technical director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) on July 27, 2026, just 16 days after his appointment on July 11 [1, 2, 3]. Leonardo, a former Brazil international who was serving as an adviser to Maldini, also stepped down on the same day [1, 2, 3].
Maldini had been brought in to help rebuild Italy's national team following its failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup, a historic low for the Italian football program [1, 2, 3]. Leonardo joined him with the aim of supporting technical and strategic efforts.
The resignations came shortly after former Italy international Andrea Pirlo announced he was no longer a candidate to coach the national team amid backlash over his commercial ties to a Russian betting firm [1, 2, 3].
The departures add to ongoing challenges for the FIGC under newly appointed president Gabriele Gravina, complicating attempts to stabilize and improve the national team setup after repeated failures on the international stage [3]. Pep Guardiola has declined an initial approach to become Italy’s coach, leaving figures such as Roberto Mancini, Roberto Motta, and Antonio Conte among the potential candidates being considered [3].
With Maldini and Leonardo stepping away, the federation must quickly seek new leadership to direct Italy's football future. The coaching vacancy remains open as of late July 2026. FIGC officials are expected to announce further decisions regarding the national team structure in the coming weeks.
