Maldini Poised for Unprecedented Role as Italy’s Technical Director, Outranking Conte in FIGC Priorities

FolioPitch.com – 26 June 2026 | In a dramatic reshaping of Italian football leadership, newly-elected FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has prioritized appointing Paolo Maldini as technical director of the Italy national team, with reports indicating that Maldini offered unprecedented powers to take on Italy role and is a bigger priority than Conte. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the AC Milan legend would be given full control over the technical and youth sectors of the national team setup, effectively becoming the head of a new ‘Club Italia’ structure.

The 55-year-old former defender, widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time, is seen as the key figure to modernize Italy’s footballing philosophy. The Gazzetta report states that Maldini offered unprecedented powers to take on Italy role and is a bigger priority than Conte, with the Italian FA willing to grant him authority never before seen in the national team hierarchy. This would include oversight of coaching appointments, player development pathways, and strategic planning across all age groups.

Malagò’s ideal plan, backed by Lega Serie A, envisions Maldini as the fulcrum around which a new technical project revolves, with Antonio Conte potentially joining later as head coach. However, sources indicate that Maldini offered unprecedented powers to take on Italy role and is a bigger priority than Conte, meaning the former Milan skipper’s appointment is being fast-tracked ahead of Conte’s. The FIGC president reportedly views Maldini as the long-term architect of Italian football, while Conte—despite his stellar club and international record—would be a more tactical, short-term appointment.

The proposed package for Maldini would see him oversee everything from the senior team’s playing style to the grassroots development system. Such a role mirrors the ‘technical director’ positions common in other nations but with more sweeping mandates. If accepted, Maldini would have the final say on coaching staff, player selection, and even the structure of training camps. This marks a radical departure from past Italian setups, where such powers were typically split among multiple officials.

There are, however, potential stumbling blocks. SportItalia reported on Wednesday that Maldini is not entirely convinced about taking the role, citing concerns over the scale of the task and the lack of a clear backup plan. The next federal council meeting on Wednesday is expected to discuss these proposals in detail, with Malagò likely to make a final push to secure Maldini’s commitment.

In addition to Maldini and Conte, there is speculation that former Italy international Gianfranco Zola could be given a prominent role, possibly as a liaison between the FIGC and Lega Pro, where he currently serves as vice-president. Zola’s experience as a player and coach at various levels could complement Maldini’s vision.

If the plan succeeds, Italy would boast a leadership duo comprising two of its most iconic football figures—Maldini as the strategic mind and Conte as the on-field tactician. However, the immediate focus remains on convincing Maldini that the unprecedented powers offered are genuine and sustainable. As the football world watches, the narrative continues: Maldini offered unprecedented powers to take on Italy role and is a bigger priority than Conte, and the outcome could redefine Italian football for decades.

In conclusion, the FIGC’s bold move signals a desire for long-term stability and excellence. By prioritizing Maldini over Conte, Malagò is betting on the transformative power of a club legend who embodies Italian football’s golden era. The coming weeks will reveal whether Maldini accepts this historic challenge, but one thing is clear: the Italian FA is ready to grant him the keys to the kingdom.