Italy, Paolo Maldini and Leonardo
Saturday
The Italian federation has appointed Paolo Maldini as technical director and Leonardo as advisor as part of a major national-team rebuild. The move follows Italy’s failure to qualify for a third straight World Cup.
New federation president Giovanni Malago said the appointments are the first step toward hiring the next Italy coach. Maldini and Leonardo will help shape a four-year plan through Euro qualification and the 2030 World Cup cycle.