Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Giovanni Malagò has confirmed that the nation's search for a new head coach and technical director is well underway, with multiple contingency plans in place. Speaking to the media, Malagò expressed confidence in the federation's structured approach amid widespread speculation following Italy's disappointing recent campaign.
"We have a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C," Malagò stated. "I won't reveal the names, but we are working with clarity and determination to appoint the right people to lead the Azzurri forward."
Italy at a Crossroads
The Italy national team finds itself at a pivotal juncture. After failing to advance from the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the pressure has intensified on the FIGC to overhaul its technical leadership. The current coaching setup has come under fire, with fans and pundits demanding a fresh vision to restore the Azzurri to their former glory.
The Azzurri's World Cup campaign was marred by a lack of creativity and defensive frailties that saw them crash out at the group stage for the second consecutive tournament. The aftermath has led to intense scrutiny of the FIGC's decision-making, with many calling for a root-and-branch review of the national team setup.
Italy's last major triumph came at Euro 2020, but the squad has since undergone significant turnover. The new coach will inherit a blend of experienced veterans like Gianluigi Donnarumma and younger talents breaking through from Serie A clubs, requiring a delicate balance between immediate results and long-term planning.
The role of technical director is equally critical, with the new appointee expected to oversee youth development and the long-term tactical identity of Italian football. Malagò's insistence on having multiple options suggests the federation is prepared for any eventuality in negotiations.
Who Are the Candidates?
While Malagò remained tight-lipped on specifics, Italian media has linked a host of high-profile names to the coaching role. Antonio Conte, currently without a club after leaving Tottenham Hotspur, is reportedly the federation's first choice. The former Juventus and Inter Milan boss has a proven track record and the abrasive personality that many feel the national team needs.
Other options reportedly include Roberto De Zerbi, whose attacking philosophy has earned admirers at Sassuolo, and former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, though the latter may be a long shot. For the technical director post, names like Paolo Maldini and Fabio Paratici have surfaced in discussions.
Malagò's Plan B and C are believed to include candidates currently employed at club level, making negotiations trickier but not insurmountable. The FIGC is prepared to pay compensation if necessary, signaling a determination to secure the right person. However, as Malagò hinted, the federation is not solely reliant on one candidate, ensuring that even if talks with preferred targets stall, the process will continue without panic.
What’s Next for the Azzurri?
The FIGC is expected to announce appointments before the start of the new Serie A season, allowing the new coach time to prepare for the UEFA Nations League and the qualification campaign for the 2028 European Championship. The incoming coach will face the immediate task of rejuvenating an aging squad and integrating emerging talents from the youth ranks.
The technical director will work alongside the new coach to revamp the youth pathways, which have been criticised for failing to produce enough world-class players in recent years. The federation hopes that a unified philosophy from the under-15s to the senior team will replicate the success models of nations like France and Spain.
Critics argue that Italy's problems run deeper than the coach, pointing to systemic issues in domestic talent development. The new technical director will thus play a crucial role in bridging the gap between club and country, a challenge Malagò acknowledges.
"We need a holistic rebuild, not just a quick fix," Malagò added. "Our plans encompass both immediate results and long-term sustainability."
Fan Reaction and Media Frenzy
News of Malagò's comments has ignited passionate debate across Italian media. Sports dailies like La Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere dello Sport have dedicated front pages to potential coaching scenarios, with fan polls showing Conte as the overwhelming favourite.
However, not everyone is convinced that a high-profile name is the answer. Some pundits argue that the federation should emulate Germany's reported pursuit of Jürgen Klopp, focusing on a project-oriented manager rather than a short-term fix. The debate underscores the deep divisions within Italian football over its future direction.
Quick Facts
FIGC President: Giovanni Malagò
Vacant Positions: Head Coach, Technical Director
Reason for Vacancy: Post-World Cup restructuring
Preferred Profiles: Experienced, tactical acumen, ability to rebuild
Timeline for Appointment: Before 2026-27 season
Key Takeaways
- FIGC President Giovanni Malagò confirms the federation has multiple contingency plans (Plan A, B, and C) for the new head coach and technical director roles.
- Italy's early World Cup exit has accelerated the need for a comprehensive technical overhaul.
- Antonio Conte, Roberto De Zerbi, and Carlo Ancelotti are among the rumoured coaching candidates, though no official shortlist has been released.
- The new technical director will be tasked with aligning youth development with the senior team's philosophy.
- An appointment is anticipated before the start of the next Serie A season to prepare for upcoming UEFA competitions.
As the football world watches, one thing is clear: the FIGC is leaving nothing to chance. With Malagò's three-pronged strategy, Italy aims to navigate this critical period with the meticulousness that has long defined its footballing heritage.
