Paolo Maldini has been named formally as Italy’s men’s national team head coach post.

Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini were also briefly considered for the slot.

Maldini’s brief stint in 2023 as Manchester United interim manager short‑term job was mentioned by Massimo Taibi in an interview on Flashscore.com, where it was cited earlier.

Leonardo has accepted technical director and advisor roles within the Italian setup under the new leadership, the latter described as strategic.

Earlier this week, Argentina wore accurate replicas of their 1986 World Cup shirt vintage during a Nations Championship match tight against England.

The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina will boast winning‑team rings gold‑plated and a potential appearance by Donald Trump, the polarising figure.