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The crisis within Italian football has deepened after Paolo Maldini and his deputy Leonardo stepped down from their roles in the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) just 16 days after taking office. The resignations were confirmed by Giancarlo Abete, president of the National Amateur League, following a meeting of football officials in Rome.

Their departure comes in the wake of the failed attempt to appoint Andrea Pirlo as head coach of the Italy national team. Reports indicate that the move was blocked because of Pirlo’s sponsorship agreement with a Russian betting company, forcing the federation back to square one in its search for a new manager.

The setback has intensified the uncertainty surrounding the Azzurri. High-profile targets Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti are both understood to have turned down approaches, leaving the federation to explore alternative options. Among the leading candidates now under consideration are former Italy boss Roberto Mancini and experienced coach Antonio Conte.