Italy’s football federation is continuing to reshape the national team setup, with Gianfranco Zola emerging as the leading candidate to become the new head of delegation.
Following the recent appointments of Roberto Mancini as head coach and Claudio Ranieri as technical director, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is now looking to fill another important role within the national team structure.
FIGC President Giovanni Malagò wants to appoint someone who can act as a link between the senior national team and the youth teams at Coverciano. The role has previously been held by respected former players including Gigi Riva, Gianluca Vialli and, most recently, Gianluigi Buffon.
The successful candidate will also work closely with Maurizio Viscidi to help coordinate Italy’s youth national teams.
According to reports in Italy, Zola is Malagò’s preferred choice. The former Parma, Napoli, Chelsea and Cagliari forward is said to be open to the role, although he is reluctant to step down from his current position as vice-president of Lega Pro.
If a deal with Zola cannot be reached, former Italy defender Beppe Bergomi is believed to be the main alternative. The 1982 World Cup winner has previously shown an interest in working with the Italian federation and has experience both as a coach and in youth football management.
Talks are expected to continue over the coming days as the FIGC looks to complete its new leadership team.
