P aulo Maldini's resignation as Italy's technical director has opened the door for Claudio Ranieri and Roberto Mancini to take on key roles in the Azzurri set-up.
A new project with Maldini and Leonardo at the helm had started barely two weeks ago, but it ended on Monday after Malagò refused to appoint Andrea Pirlo as a new coach, officially due to his role as a brand ambassador for a Russian betting company.
A FIGC Federal meeting is now taking place in Rome, and Malagò is expected to propose Mancini as Italy's new head coach. Mancini's appointment is expected to coincide with Ranieri being hired as Italy's technical director.
Mancini already served as Italy's national team coach from 2018 to 2023, but suddenly resigned to join the Saudi Arabia national team. The Italian Football Federation has confirmed that Mancini is set to return to the Azzurri, this time as head coach.
Ranieri, on the other hand, has been a strong candidate for the technical director role. The experienced coach has had a successful stint at Roma, leading the team to a top-four finish in Serie A. He has also been praised for his ability to motivate and develop young players.
Giorgio Chiellini had emerged as a candidate for the technical director role, but the ex-defender has confirmed he's happy at Juventus. This leaves Ranieri as the most likely candidate to fill the role.
A decision on Ranieri and Mancini's appointments is expected to be made in the coming days. The pair are tipped to work together to revive Italy's national team and bring success back to the Azzurri.
Source: Yahoo Sports