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Italy’s interim head coach Silvio Baldini has delivered a scathing assessment of the current state of the nation’s football administration, warning the federation to avoid chasing unrealistic managerial names such as Pep Guardiola and Cesc Fabregas. The experienced tactician voiced his anger over deep-rooted problems in the system ahead of the upcoming friendly matches, urging for local leadership to rebuild the national structure from within.

Baldini calls for total structural change

As other countries gear up for the World Cup, the Azzurri are assembling for the first time under Baldini for friendly clashes against Luxembourg and Greece. During his press conference before the team’s first training session, the interim manager emphasized the need for a complete reform of the domestic football hierarchy.

The Italian national side continues to operate without a full-time replacement for Gennaro Gattuso, who resigned after failing to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Interim coach directs criticism at football authorities

With the disappointment of missing the summer tournament still fresh, Baldini openly criticized the entrenched structural flaws holding back the Italian game. Speaking frankly about his concerns, he said: “Italian football is run by people who care only about their personal gain, not the progress of the sport. They prioritise trading veteran players instead of nurturing young talent because it benefits them financially. I’ve never hidden this view – I call some of them ‘scammers,’ and unfortunately, they often control this sport. Until we have genuine, responsible leaders, these issues will persist.”

Dismissal of unrealistic coaching pursuits

In recent weeks, several high-profile names have been linked to the vacant managerial position, including Antonio Conte after his departure from Napoli. However, Baldini dismissed talk of pursuing glamorous names such as Fabregas, who led Como to Champions League qualification, or Guardiola, who recently concluded a decade-long spell of dominance with Manchester City. “If it were up to me, I would look for coaches with proven experience,” Baldini commented.

“There’s no sense in discussing unreachable figures like Guardiola or Fabregas. Italy already has a number of talented coaches capable of giving the team a clear identity. I only hope that whoever is appointed considers me an asset rather than an obstacle.”

Azzurri face critical transition period

The Italian Football Federation is under immediate pressure to secure a long-term appointment to prevent further decline following the failed qualification campaign. As decision-makers evaluate their options, the players must remain focused on performance during the international break. The back-to-back friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece will serve as an essential platform for the squad to define their tactical approach before the next managerial era begins.