Zoff Gives Advice to Maldini After Appointment to the Italian National Team
July 21, 2026 ·
Dino Zoff supports the appointment of Paolo Maldini as technical director of the Italian national team, stressing the need for freedom in decision-making and the importance of being surrounded by trusted advisors.
Zoff Gives Advice to Maldini After Appointment to the Italian National Team
According to Sports.
Background
Paolo Maldini, known as one of the best defenders in football history, is now taking a strategic role in the Italian national team. With the support of a legend like Dino Zoff, who has experience as a national team captain and coach, Maldini is expected to be able to utilize his knowledge to rebuild the strong foundations of Italian football.
Why this is important
The appointment of Paolo Maldini as technical director of the Italian national team marks an important step for the FIGC in its efforts to restore the glory of Italian football. With his extensive experience at AC Milan and his significant contribution to the national team, Maldini is expected to bring the positive changes and new strategies needed to overcome the failures of the last three editions of the World Cup.
Main Points
- Zoff Gives Advice to Maldini After Appointment to the Italian National Team.
- Dino Zoff supports the appointment of Paolo Maldini as technical director of the Italian national team, stressing the need for freedom in decision-making and the importance of being surrounded by trusted advisors.
- Zoff advises Maldini after Italy appointment: ‘Must be free to follow his beliefs’ - Yahoo Sports.
Dino Zoff, the Italian football legend, has commented on the appointment of his former 'pupil', Paolo Maldini, as technical director within the Italian national team structure. Zoff emphasized that Maldini must be given the freedom to 'follow his beliefs' and make changes he feels are necessary.
Maldini was recently confirmed as the new technical director of the FIGC (Italian Football Federation), signing a four-year contract that will take him until the end of the 2030 World Cup. In his role, he will be accompanied by his AC Milan teammate, Leonardo, who will serve as an advisor. The two will work together with Giovanni Malago, who was recently elected as Gabriele Gravina's replacement as FIGC President. The appointment is seen as the start of a new era for Italy, who have failed to qualify for the last three editions of the FIFA World Cup.
"This is a choice that I fully understand," said Zoff, captain of the Italian national team who once won the world title and former coach of the Italian national team, in an interview with Il Resto del Carlino. He continued, "Paolo has given so much to our football, especially to Milan and also to the national team. He was also one of my players when I was coach, and I can't forget his father, Cesare, who was Bearzot's assistant when I won the World Cup in 1982. Maldini is the perfect choice in terms of character, charisma and competence.
I also understand Leonardo's choice as an advisor. It is very important for a leader to be surrounded by people he trusts. The same assessment should be applied to the next coach to come. Maldini must be free to follow his beliefs, without outside interference. It wouldn't come from me, I don't have a name to suggest for the role.
When asked what advice he would give Maldini if given the opportunity, Zoff replied, "It's important that there is clarity about roles and responsibilities. I don't doubt Malago, I know him well. I hope there is awareness of where we are right now across the organizations surrounding the national team.
With the support and trust of football legends, hopes for the future of the Italian national team under the leadership of Paolo Maldini are increasingly burning, especially ahead of the upcoming major competitions and to rebuild the glory of Italian football.
What happened next
Maldini and Leonardo will work together to formulate a long-term plan for the Italian national team, with a focus on developing young players and restoring the team's performance. It is also hoped that their collaboration with Giovanni Malago as FIGC President can create strong synergy in achieving the national team's goals, especially ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Paolo Maldini in the Italian national team?
Paolo Maldini has just been appointed as technical director of the Italian national team by the FIGC.
Who confirmed Maldini's appointment?
The appointment of Paolo Maldini as technical director was confirmed by the FIGC.
Why is this appointment happening now?
This appointment is seen as the start of a new era for Italy, after the team failed to qualify for the last three editions of the FIFA World Cup.
What changes are expected from Maldini?
Dino Zoff suggested that Maldini be given the freedom to follow his beliefs and make the necessary changes to the team.
Who will work with Maldini?
Maldini will be accompanied by Leonardo, his teammate at AC Milan, who will serve as an advisor.