Paolo Maldini nears FIGC technical director decision after Malagò ultimatum

Paolo Maldini is on the brink of deciding whether to take the FIGC’s top football job after Giovanni Malagò gave him a 24-hour ultimatum.

What happened?

Paolo Maldini still hasn’t accepted the Italian Football Federation’s offer to become technical director, but FIGC president Malagò told Gazzetta dello Sport he will make a final call by Friday, 18 July 2026. A planned meeting between the two men on Friday never took place, leaving Malagò waiting for Maldini’s final word.

The technical director role is central to Italy’s rebuilding plan. The new boss will pick the next Azzurri head coach and oversee every national-team side from youth teams to the senior squad. Malagò has already lined up back-up candidates, but he still expects Maldini to say yes.

Why it matters for Paolo Maldini

The Milan legend’s decision could shape Italy’s next decade. If he takes the job, Maldini would control recruitment, staff appointments and youth development across all age groups. If he declines, Malagò will turn to alternatives such as Demetrio Albertini, Gianfranco Zola and Giuseppe Bergomi.

Repubblica reported on Friday that Malagò has already identified three high-profile replacements. Yet the FIGC president has kept talks on hold, convinced Maldini will come aboard. The Milan icon’s profile-16 Serie A titles, five Champions League crowns and 25 years at the Rossoneri-gives him instant credibility in the role.

What comes next?

Malagò will decide by tomorrow. If Maldini says no, the FIGC will accelerate talks with Albertini, Zola or Bergomi. If he says yes, Italy gains a technical director steeped in the Azzurri’s DNA and Milan’s winning culture.

The clock is ticking. Malagò’s patience expires at midnight on 18 July 2026. Maldini’s answer will land before then-or Italy’s search for a new football architect will move on.