On August 9, Italian Football Federation President Malagò was interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport, elaborating on important decisions made since taking office, including the national team delegation head, coaching appointment, the Pirlo controversy, contact with Guardiola, and plans for the future development of Italian football.
Since becoming President of the Italian Football Federation, Malagò has had an eventful 50 days. From reshaping the national team's management structure to appointing a new head coach and charting Italian football's development path, a series of decisions have drawn considerable external attention.
Malagò stated that Italian football is undergoing an important transformation, one that extends beyond competitive performance to encompass a fundamental reform of football culture and institutional structure.
Appointment of Bianchedi as National Team Delegation Head: Integrating Football Back into the Broader Sports System
One of the most significant decisions was appointing two-time Olympic champion Diana Bianchedi as head of the Italian national team delegation.
Regarding this choice, Malagò said it was not merely a personnel adjustment but a crucial step for Italian football to redefine its role.
"This responds to the expectations of fans, the public, and Italian society as a whole. Football can no longer be viewed as an isolated world separate from other sports."
Malagò believes that Bianchedi possesses the ability and influence to drive this change.
"Diana has an international reputation and exceptional credibility. She has won two Olympic gold medals, holds a medical degree, and has completed advanced studies in sports management."
"Additionally, she currently serves as an official for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and is Vice President of the Italian Olympic Committee. Her experience spans competitive sports, management, and international affairs."
In Malagò's view, Bianchedi's background will help Italian football establish stronger connections with the entire national sports system.
"This is a cultural revolution. She represents both the Olympic Committee and Italian football on the global stage. Her appointment means football is returning to the center of the broader sports ecosystem."
Mancini's Return: He Is the Right Person, Not a Personal Preference
After evaluating several coaching candidates, Italy ultimately chose Roberto Mancini to lead the national team again.
Some questioned whether a personal relationship between Malagò and Mancini influenced the final decision.
Malagò addressed these doubts directly.
"Mancini is the right person, and he is someone both Claudio Ranieri and I agreed upon."
"Why is he suitable? Because he understands Italian football and is familiar with most of the national team players. He knows how to develop young talent and unlock the team's potential."
Malagò emphasized that the decision was based on professional merit rather than friendship.
"We have known each other for many years and have played together in some veteran matches, but we have never maintained close contact."
"The outside world likes to attribute decisions to 'friendship,' but that explanation is irrelevant. Choosing Mancini is the most logical solution at this moment."
Mancini Agreed Immediately: Contract Signed in Two Minutes
Malagò also revealed details of his conversation with Mancini.
"I called Roberto only after the Pirlo matter was resolved."
"I asked him: 'Roberto, do you feel ready to come back?'"
"His answer was straightforward: 'Yes, I am ready.'"
Malagò noted that Mancini not only agreed to coach the national team again but also accepted the criticism he would face for his time coaching in Saudi Arabia.
"One thing must be emphasized: he signed the contract in less than two minutes and barely reviewed it carefully."
According to Malagò, this demonstrated Mancini's commitment to his responsibilities with the national team.
The Pirlo Controversy: Everything Was Ready, but the Final Decision Kept Me Awake
Beyond Mancini, Andrea Pirlo was also a strong candidate for the Italy coaching position.
Malagò revealed that the two sides had essentially finalized all arrangements at that time.
"Believe me, everything was done. Everything was in place, even on the verge of an official announcement."
However, news emerged about Pirlo's association with a Russian betting company, which forced a change in plans.
"What was I supposed to do then?"
"I didn't sleep that night. I kept deliberating because it was an extremely difficult decision."
Ultimately, Malagò decided to abandon the Pirlo plan.
"But looking back now, I still believe I made the right decision."
Guardiola Was a Leading Candidate: No Point in Concealing the Facts
Before confirming the coaching appointment, the Italian Football Federation also considered approaching Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
When asked why this became public knowledge, Malagò explained: "Once Guardiola entered public discussion, there was no reason to continue hiding it."
"We approached Guardiola because Paolo Maldini and Leonardo held clear football philosophies and wanted the team to develop in a more modern and controlled direction."
Malagò noted that the media had already detected the relevant signals.
"We are in 2026, and if everyone sees Maldini and Leonardo in Barcelona, then it is virtually impossible to keep such things private."
However, Guardiola ultimately did not become Italy's national team coach.
Regarding Conte: I Appreciate His Support, but We Never Made Contact
Besides Mancini and Guardiola, Antonio Conte was also frequently mentioned as a candidate.
Malagò acknowledged that many Serie A clubs hoped Conte would take the position.
"Indeed, most clubs supported Conte—that is a fact."
However, he stressed that choosing Mancini was not about asserting independence.
"My selection logic is straightforward: Mancini is currently the most suitable candidate."
"At the same time, I must express my gratitude to Conte. He has consistently expressed public support for the national team and demonstrated his commitment to Italian football's improvement."
"But I want to be clear: we never contacted Conte."
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