League: Serie A Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Scores & Results

Maldini wanted De Rossi and Grosso as Italy coach over Pirlo

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 11:05 AM

Last updated Aug 9, 2026

Maldini wanted De Rossi and Grosso as Italy coach over Pirlo

Summary

Paolo Maldini, during his tenure as technical director of the FIGC, considered Daniele De Rossi and Fabio Grosso as candidates for the Italy national team head coach position. He initially aimed for Pep Guardiola or Carlo Ancelotti but ultimately faced obstacles with Serie A, leading to the appointment of Andrea Pirlo. Maldini's options were limited due to agreements preventing the hiring of Serie A coaches, as per FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. Concerns about Pirlo's coaching experience were prevalent amid the selection process.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Maldini revealed preferences for two young coaches for Italy.
•Guardiola and Ancelotti were initially sought after.
•Appointment of Pirlo faced opposition due to his limited experience.
•Agreement barriers prevented hiring Serie A coaches.
•Maldini's departure followed conflicts with FIGC leadership.

Latest Updates

11:05 AMYahoo Sports — Maldini reveals who he wanted as Italy head coach after Guardiola, Ancelotti and Pirlo

What they're saying

"
Paolo Maldini has revealed that there were two other young Italian coaches in line to take over as head coach of the Italy national team during his time as technical director of the FIGC, but has expl...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

AC Milan Serie A Soccer