Italy's Azzurri overhaul hinges on Zola joining Mancini and Ranieri

Roberto Mancini has officially returned as head coach of the Italy national team while Claudio Ranieri has been appointed FIGC technical director after Paolo Maldini’s resignation, and reports now place Gianfranco Zola in line to complete the new Azzurri set‑up. Could Zola join the staff alongside Mancini and Ranieri?

Mancini’s appointment was confirmed on Tuesday, ending a brief period of uncertainty after the FIGC’s previous leadership changes. Ranieri steps into the technical director role, taking over the duties previously held by Maldini.

Maldini and his advisor Leonardo left their FIGC positions only 16 days after being appointed, having failed to secure any of their three preferred head‑coach candidates: Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola or Andrea Pirlo. Their departure cleared the way for the current restructuring.

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One vacancy remains: the head of delegation, a post once occupied by Gianluigi Buffon, Gigi Riva and Gianluca Vialli. That role is expected to focus more on youth teams and coordination with Maurizio Viscidi, the youth‑team coordinator.

Sport Mediaset Giovanni Malagò’s preferred candidate for the delegation chief is Zola, who currently serves as vice‑President of the Lega Pro. Zola is reportedly happy in his current job but is expected to discuss a possible move within hours.

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Beppe Bergomi, another name floated for the technical director slot, remains in contention according to Wednesday’s reports. His experience adds further options for the FIGC.

The past few days have been described as a rollercoaster for the Italy national team and the FIGC, reflecting the rapid turnover in senior positions.