Maldini, Leonardo hired to rebuild Italy's national football team

The Italian Football Federation announced the hiring of Paolo Maldini as technical director and Leonardo, the former Brazil international and 1994 World Cup champion, as advisor, according to ESPN. The appointments represent a formal reorganization of the federation's technical structure and signal an attempt to overhaul the national team's operations following a period of instability.

Maldini, the legendary AC Milan defender who spent his entire career at the San Siro club, brings both playing pedigree and recent management experience to the role. His appointment as technical director places him at the centre of decision-making for player development, scouting and tactical direction. Leonardo's role as advisor introduces a figure with extensive experience in both playing at the highest level and in senior management roles across multiple clubs and federations.

The restructuring comes as Italy's national team seeks to restore competitive standing after disappointing recent campaigns. The hiring of figures with elite playing backgrounds and management credentials suggests the federation is pursuing a stability-focused approach, moving away from purely tactical appointments toward a model that emphasizes institutional knowledge and long-term vision.

Maldini's appointment carries particular weight within Italian football circles. His 25-year career at Milan, during which he won multiple Serie A titles and a Champions League trophy, established him as one of the sport's most respected figures. Since retiring as a player, he has held positions in Milan's management structure, giving him direct experience in the mechanics of professional football administration.

Leonardo's inclusion as advisor adds an international dimension to the restructuring. His career spanned elite clubs across Europe and Brazil, and he has held senior roles including director of football at Paris Saint-Germain, where he oversaw significant transfer and strategic decisions. His appointment suggests the federation intends to import best practices from European and South American football models.

The timing of the appointments coincides with Italy's participation in the 2026 World Cup qualification cycle and the broader context of Serie A's standing in European competition. The federation's decision to invest in senior technical leadership reflects an acknowledgment that the national team requires institutional renewal at the highest levels of decision-making, moving beyond individual coaching appointments to reshape the entire development and selection infrastructure.