Juventus CEO Slams FIGC President: ‘Hire Competence, Not Cronies’ in Italy Manager Search

FolioPitch.com – 30 July 2026 | Giovanni Carnevali has delivered a scathing critique of Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malagò over the appointment of Roberto Mancini as Italy manager, arguing that the selection process prioritized personal relationships over merit. In a recent appearance at a La Stampa event, the Juventus chief executive did not mince words, stating that the federation should have focused on ‘bringing in capable people, not friends.’ This controversy underscores the growing rift between Serie A clubs and the FIGC regarding the direction of Italian football. The Carnevali criticises Malago over Mancini choice Bring in capable people not friends remarks have sparked widespread debate across the football community.

Carnevali, who previously served as CEO of Sassuolo, used the platform to question the federation’s decision-making process. “Despite being a great figure in sport, in my view the new FIGC president could have moved better,” he said. “We had asked him to build a federation like a football club, with a technical director and a sporting director. We need to start again from the foundations, from young players and educators, with a sporting project.” The former Sassuolo executive emphasized that the appointment of Mancini, while a respected figure, was a missed opportunity to install a coach with a more modern approach. He revealed that Serie A clubs had collectively offered to fund a higher-profile appointment, widely believed to be Antonio Conte. “As Serie A, we had proposed making an investment to find coaches of quality,” Carnevali added. “You shouldn’t bring in friends, but capable people.” This sentiment is at the heart of the Carnevali criticises Malago over Mancini choice Bring in capable people not friends narrative.

The controversy also touched on the treatment of Andrea Pirlo, who was initially the frontrunner for the role before being abruptly passed over. Carnevali expressed sympathy for Pirlo, noting that he was “attacked very strongly for choices that were perhaps mistaken.” He suggested that the federation should have deliberated more carefully before making a final decision. The Carnevali criticises Malago over Mancini choice Bring in capable people not friends theme resonates strongly with those who believe Italian football needs a systemic overhaul.

Beyond the national team, Carnevali widened his critique to world football governing body FIFA, aligning himself with European federations opposing FIFA’s current direction. “There are 55 federations opposed to what FIFA is pursuing,” he said. “What Infantino is doing is there for all to see, a different direction from a few years ago. I like things done cleanly, and FIFA isn’t upholding the values I believe in. The fact that 55 federations disagree is already an important step; there will be a chance to stop them.” This statement reflects a broader discontent among European football leaders with FIFA’s expanding influence and controversial policies.

The ramifications of this public dispute could extend beyond the immediate appointment. Carnevali’s comments highlight a fundamental disagreement between club executives and the FIGC over how to revive Italian football’s fortunes. With the national team struggling to recapture past glory, the insistence on appointing a coach with a strong club pedigree but limited international experience has raised eyebrows. Many believe that the Italian game needs a fresh approach, focusing on youth development and tactical innovation. Carnevali’s call to “bring in capable people, not friends” encapsulates this desire for meritocracy in football governance.

In conclusion, the Carnevali criticises Malago over Mancini choice Bring in capable people not friends episode serves as a flashpoint in Italian football’s ongoing evolution. As the FIGC navigates external pressures from both domestic clubs and global governing bodies, the need for transparent, competency-based decision-making has never been more critical. Whether the federation heeds these warnings remains to be seen, but the debate has certainly ignited a necessary conversation about leadership and accountability in the sport.