Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director – Inside the FIGC’s Strategic Blueprint

FolioPitch.com – 03 July 2026 | FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has confirmed that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director, signalling a methodical approach to reshaping the national team’s leadership. With the dual appointments of a technical director and head coach looming, Malagò emphasised that the federation is not fixated on any single candidate. ‘I wouldn’t get too fossilized on certain names,’ he warned, revealing that contingency plans are in place for both roles.

The revelation that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director comes at a critical juncture. The election placed Malagò at the helm of the Italian Football Federation, and while he typically would have sole authority to hire the coach, he has instead chosen to create a new technical director role for Club Italia. This director will then play a key part in selecting the coach. Paolo Maldini is the frontrunner for the technical director position, while Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini are the leading candidates for the coaching role.

Malagò stressed that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director because time is tight and major decisions are pending. ‘In life, when time is tight and there are big problems to deal with, and above all deadlines looming, you need a Plan A, Plan B and Plan C too,’ he stated during a press conference in Cortina d’Ampezzo. He expects to announce both appointments by the end of next week, adding urgency to the selection process.

The search for new leadership is not the only challenge facing the FIGC. By July 31, Italy must submit the final list of five stadiums to co-host EURO 2032 with Turkey. Malagò described this deadline as an opportunity for the country, saying ‘big events force you to move quickly.’ The alignment of these two timelines underscores the need for decisive action.

While speculation has centred on the compatibility of Maldini with Conte or Mancini, Malagò urged caution. ‘There aren’t just a couple of candidates,’ he said, suggesting that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director might include surprise names if initial targets fall through. The president’s comments indicate a flexible but structured strategy to ensure the Azzurri are in strong hands for the upcoming challenges, including the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and EURO 2032 preparations.

The dual appointments are seen as pivotal for Italy’s footballing future. A technical director like Maldini would bring a wealth of experience and a long-term vision, while a high-profile coach such as Conte or Mancini would provide immediate tactical acumen. However, the fact that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director suggests that the federation is prepared for negotiations to collapse or for preferred candidates to decline.

As the deadline approaches, the football world watches closely. The outcome will shape Italy’s approach for years to come. Whether the first choice is secured or a backup is activated, the declaration that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director demonstrates a prudent, forward-thinking mindset. With the EURO 2032 hosting duties also on the line, the next week promises to be decisive for Italian football.

In conclusion, Giovanni Malagò’s openness about the contingency plans reflects a realistic and meticulous approach. By acknowledging that Malago Italy have Plan A B and C for new coach and director, he reassures fans that the federation is prepared for any eventuality. The coming days will reveal which plan is executed, but the strategic groundwork is already laid.