Italian football chiefs Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have resigned from their roles as technical director and advisor in the Italian Football Federation after just ten days. The surprise move follows Pep Guardiola's decision to reject the national team head coach position.
Maldini's plans after Guardiola turndown
Maldini had been keen on appointing former AC Milan teammate Andrea Pirlo as head coach, a week after talks with Manchester City icon Pep Guardiola. However, Italian football president Giovanni Malago reportedly did not want to appoint Pirlo due to his ties to Russian betting brands. Maldini and Leonardo left their positions with immediate effect.
Guardiola's response and salary demands
Guardiola is said to have told the Italian Football Federation: "Thank you, I'm honoured, but at this moment, I don't feel it." It was claimed that Guardiola asked for £17m a-year in salary demands. The former City manager currently retains a position within City Football Group in an advisory capacity, which prevents him from accepting another managerial post, though City's ownership would be unlikely to block his path.
Financial constraints highlighted
FIGC president Giovanni Malago hinted at a financial disparity in talks with Guardiola, saying: "There are certain financial aspects to be considered, and it's an understatement to say we'd have to grit our teeth for this."
