Zazzaroni Responds to Maldini's Statement: "With Conte, He and
August 11, 2026 ·
Ivan Zazzaroni responded to Paolo Maldini's statement regarding the selection of the Italian national team coach, stating that if Antonio Conte was selected, Maldini and Leonardo might still be in their positions.
Zazzaroni Responds to Maldini's Statement: "With Conte, He and
Why this is important
Ivan Zazzaroni's statement regarding the selection of the Italian national team coach is important because it reflects the internal dynamics within the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). By criticizing Paolo Maldini's views, Zazzaroni highlighted the challenges facing the Italian national team in choosing the right coach to restore the glory of Italian football, especially after Pep Guardiola's rejection.
Background
Ivan Zazzaroni, as director of Corriere dello Sport, has had a huge influence in shaping public opinion regarding Italian football. Given his background, his views on the selection of coaches and the development of young players are very relevant, especially in the context of the Italian national team which is looking for a new direction after unsatisfactory results in international competitions.
Main Points
- Zazzaroni Responds to Maldini's Statement: "With Conte, He and.
- Ivan Zazzaroni responded to Paolo Maldini's statement regarding the selection of the Italian national team coach, stating that if Antonio Conte was selected, Maldini and Leonardo might still be in their positions.
- Zazzaroni replica a Maldini: "Con Conte ct, lui e Leonardo sarebbero ancora al loro posto".
According to Zazzaroni, Conte, who is only two years older than Guardiola, cannot be considered a defensive or losing coach. He emphasized that a coach like Conte would provide positive results for the national team. Zazzaroni also highlighted Maldini's statement regarding the need to prioritize technique in training young players. He reminded that there was a plan that had been prepared previously, namely the "Italian youth football technical project" which was presented to the public on March 18, which was developed by Zambrotta and Perrotta.
Furthermore, Zazzaroni explained the structure and function of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). He emphasized that decisions regarding player development policies are determined by the clubs, and not by the federation. "Athletes who come to Coverciano have been trained by the clubs," he said.
Zazzaroni emphasized that the main priority should be to ensure good results for the national team. "A coach like Conte can guarantee good results and give the new management the opportunity to develop a long-term program. If the national team does not succeed on the field, then the presidents and federation officials will face the consequences."
At the end of his comments, Zazzaroni discussed Maldini's statement which stated that he did not receive clear information regarding the coach's name when speaking with Marotta and Percassi. "The words of Urbano Cairo, who is not just anyone, are very clear: 'The clubs want Antonio'." Zazzaroni also doubted the possibility of Guardiola working with the national team, although he acknowledged the coach's qualities. "Guardiola is a great coach, but I doubt he can work with the team every two months. Just ask Spalletti and Gattuso, or Mancini."
Zazzaroni closed his comments with a tribute to Maldini, saying that he appreciated Maldini and his father, Cesare. However, he emphasized the importance of flexibility in approach, referring to Marcello Marchesi's famous sentence: “Intransigence. Often, mistakes can have fatal consequences." He stressed that despite his harsh criticism, Maldini's status as a legend is unshakable.
What happened next
The decision regarding the Italian national team coach will be the main focus in the near future. If Antonio Conte is selected, as Zazzaroni hopes, then Paolo Maldini and Leonardo's positions will probably remain safe. However, if other decisions are taken, changes in the coaching structure and development of young players may occur, which will affect the Italian national team in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ivan Zazzaroni say about Paolo Maldini's statement?
Ivan Zazzaroni considers some of Paolo Maldini's statements to be 'lacunose' or inadequate, especially regarding the choice of coach for the Italian national team.
Who confirmed the importance of the coach for the Italian national team?
Ivan Zazzaroni confirmed the importance of a coach like Antonio Conte for the Italian national team.
Why is Zazzaroni discussing the selection of a coach now?
Zazzaroni discussed the choice of coach now in response to Paolo Maldini's latest interview discussing the choice of coach for the Italian national team.
What changes does Zazzaroni propose regarding the national team coach?
Zazzaroni suggested that if Antonio Conte was chosen as coach, Maldini and Leonardo would still remain in their current positions.
What is the main priority according to Zazzaroni for the Italian national team?
Zazzaroni emphasized that the main priority is ensuring good results for the national team.