Italian football is grappling with a leadership crisis following a chaotic 16-day period. The Italian FA (FIGC) aimed for a "hard reset" after failing to qualify for three consecutive World Cups. Technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo resigned after their proposed managerial candidates, including Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, were unavailable or rejected. Andrea Pirlo was also ruled out due to public and political outcry over his promotion of a Russian betting company.

Giovanni Malago, FIGC president, aimed to usher in a "new era" but faced immediate setbacks. The departures of Maldini and Leonardo have left the future uncertain, with Roberto Mancini now appointed as manager. However, Mancini himself had previously left the role and is now managing Saudi Arabia. Claudio Ranieri has been appointed as technical director.

The article highlights systemic issues plaguing Italian football, including an aging Serie A, low player eligibility for the national team, and poor investment in youth development. These challenges, coupled with the recent leadership turmoil, cast doubt on the promised "rebirth" for Italian football, which has seen a two-decade decline since their 2006 World Cup victory.