Malagò lifts lid on Italy coach saga: Guardiola talks, Pirlo collapse and Maldini exit

FIGC Commissioner Giovanni Malagò has opened up on the chaotic summer that ended with Roberto…

By Sam Wilson · Football italia

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 9:41 AM

Key Things to Know

FIGC Commissioner Giovanni Malagò revealed details behind the managerial search that led to Roberto Mancini returning as Italy coach.
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo met with Pep Guardiola, who declined the job to take a sabbatical for family reasons.
Andrea Pirlo's appointment collapsed when Malagò discovered Pirlo's role as an ambassador for a Russian betting company.

The Story in 60 Seconds

FIGC Commissioner Giovanni Malagò has detailed the turbulent events that concluded with Roberto Mancini returning to manage the Italian national team. Malagò explained that Paolo Maldini and Leonardo departed their leadership roles after 16 days following disagreements over candidates, including an evening discussion held with Pep Guardiola, who chose to remain on sabbatical.

Maldini subsequently pushed to appoint Andrea Pirlo, but the move collapsed after Malagò learned of Pirlo's commercial contract as an ambassador for a Russian betting company. Malagò halted the hiring process upon the discovery, leading to the departure of Maldini and Leonardo before Mancini was brought back.

Read the full article on Football italia

Malagò lifts lid on Italy coach saga: Guardiola talks, Pirlo collapse and Maldini exit

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