Former Juventus manager Thiago Motta has emerged as a top candidate for the Italian national team head coach position, according to federation sources.
The development comes amid administrative upheaval within the Italian Football Federation following key leadership departures.
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The administrative shift unfolded after technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo signed a mutual contract termination with the federation.
Their resignations ended a 16-day tenure following the collapse of Andrea Pirlo's managerial candidacy.
Leadership Vacuum
Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malagò departed federation headquarters via a side exit without issuing statements.
Official announcements regarding the head coach role are expected after a scheduled assembly meeting.
Lega Nazionale Dilettanti president Giancarlo Abete reflected on the sudden shift in direction during federal meetings.
"Until 45 minutes ago we were thinking about the alternatives wanted by the technical director and the advisor.
Now we must restart from a serious project," Abete said.
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Abete noted that the leadership departures occurred as officials were leaving federal meetings. "We learned about it as we were leaving the president's office," he added.
Government officials also weighed in on the political dimension surrounding the national team appointment. "Why did the Pirlo case become political?
Because everything is politics," said Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi.
League representatives noted the broader implications for football governance. "We learned from TV about the resignations of Maldini and Leonardo, we took note of it.
Surprised? I would say no, it was in the air," said Lega Serie A president Ezio Maria Simonelli.
Simonelli confirmed that specific coach candidates were not evaluated during the initial exit talks. "We didn't name any names," he said.
Regarding Motta, federal leadership maintained an open position. "At this moment I cannot say," Malagò said when asked about the former Juventus coach.
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Consumer rights group Codacons filed a complaint with communications authority Agcom concerning commercial endorsements linked to Pirlo. Informal federation talks continue ahead of formal decision meetings.
