Paolo Maldini and his adviser Leonardo were reportedly against appointing either Antonio Conte or Roberto Mancini as Italy coach. The report suggests both men were not convinced by those options, even though the two managers are among the biggest names linked with the national team role.
Instead, Maldini and Leonardo are said to have explored a different path by trying to bring in Thiago Motta. That effort ultimately did not succeed, leaving their preferred solution off the table and deepening the uncertainty around the coaching search.
The failed attempt to land Motta appears to have been a turning point. With no agreement on Conte, no backing for Mancini, and their own candidate unavailable, the situation reportedly led to their resignation.
The story highlights how divided decision-making can shape a major appointment such as the Italy coach position. Rather than choosing between Conte or Mancini, Maldini and Leonardo pushed for an alternative, but when that move collapsed, their involvement also came to an end.
