​Beppe Bergomi believes Paolo Maldini is the optimal choice to lead Italy and the FIGC in his new role as technical director, while also offering his willingness to assist if called upon. “If Paolo called me, I would listen to someone like him,” he said. Maldini has just been appointed as the Italian FA’s technical director under the recently elected FIGC President Giovanni Malagò. His mandate includes rebuilding the senior Italy national team after three consecutive World Cup disappointments and reshaping the broader landscape of Italian football, including youth development.
If Maldini had not accepted the offer to return to the Italy set-up, Bergomi suggested there were other viable candidates on a short list, among whom he would have been considered. “I was pleased to be on the list,” Bergomi told La Repubblica in an in-depth interview. He noted the respect he shares with Malagò, recalling that Malagò was the one who entrusted him with carrying the torch during the opening ceremony for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics—one of the proudest moments of his life. “Had Paolo not accepted, I would have been among the possible alternatives and, for me, that is a source of pride. Maldini is the best choice by a considerable margin.”
Bergomi emphasized Maldini’s qualifications: “Paolo has experience; he has already served as a director at a high level. He possesses strong values and competence. I love him; I think he’s the best Italian player I’ve ever played with. He has a new role now and he will be able to make the difference.” When pressed about whether he would still be willing to assist within the Italy setup if the opportunity arose, Bergomi replied: “If Paolo called me, I would listen to someone like him. I enjoy working as a Sky commentator, but the Italy shirt has defined my career—from 1982 to 1998. I played in four World Cups. If I can help, I won’t back down.”
Maldini has also brought former Milan teammate Leonardo, the ex-Rossoneri and PSG director, aboard as an advisor, a move Bergomi calls smart. “There will be a lot of work; you could have every possible quality, but it’s always better with two. Maldini is practical in his management, Leo is a dreamer—a useful and interesting mix.” They will need to determine how to maximize the potential of Italy’s youth sectors and ensure the Azzurri’s supply chain functions efficiently. Bergomi notes that there are two promising vintages coming through, emphasizing the need to capitalize on young talents to strengthen Italy’s long-term prospects.
In Bergomi’s view, Maldini’s leadership, complemented by Leonardo’s visionary perspective, could create a strong dynamic that aligns administrative strategy with technical execution. The focus, he suggests, should be on revamping the youth development pipeline and ensuring that the national teams have a coherent, sustainable pathway from the schoolyards to the senior national squad. With Maldini’s pragmatism and Leonardo’s broader horizon, Bergomi believes Italy stands a real chance to rebuild its footballing structure and restore the national team’s competitive edge for the years ahead.