Absolute chaos in Italian federation

[IsDurbanodoingtime]

Paolo Maldini goes scorched earth against Italian federation in a resignation press conference. Translation: We are too cheap to sign pep so when we pivot to Pirlo the fed shivs him and drags him. Whatever you want to say about Pirlo's connections to the Russian gambling firm which were borne out of his employment with the uae club (which the betting firm sponsored), the connection was well known. Don't make Maldini go through the pomp and regale of announcing Pirlo only to humiliate and drag him - especially given his contribution and sacrifice for/to the national team. Maldini is a mensch standing up for his brother- no Pirlo, no Maldini.

[BalotelliMassive]

It's a Greek tragedy at this point.

Did these guys ever speak to each other about their plans?

I really like Raneiri taking over the undefined role from Maldini and I'll hold judgement on Mancini until I see who he calls up to the team.

[mjg]

With Rainieri at least they have an adult in the room now - I think that's a smart move as well as Mancini (proven). As much as I liked Gattuso and Pirlo as players I felt their coaching CVs were a little light for this type of job.

[Rosthol]

The Tinkerman.

[IsDurbanodoingtime]

With Rainieri at least they have an adult in the room now - I think that's a smart move as well as Mancini (proven). As much as I liked Gattuso and Pirlo as players I felt their coaching CVs were a little light for this type of job.

Valid concern. But he [Pirlo] did a real yeoman job with a [shirt]ty Turkish first division club Faith Karagumrek with no real talent and got them nearly into a Europe competition spot in his first season. He then got the shaft I think at Sampdoria when they plugged the plug on him without giving him a real chance. He has instant credibility with his players which would have gone a long way with this current azzuri squad.

Ranieri is a solid dude. On another much sadder note Franco Baresi passed away today. One of the greats and severely unheralded and underrated defender.

[BalotelliMassive]

Ranieri is a solid dude. On another much sadder note Franco Baresi passed away today. One of the greats and severely unheralded and underrated defender.

"Guys, today football woke up a lot sadder with the death of Franco Baresi.
"When I was playing for PSV Eindhoven, I faced Milan twice, and I could already tell that Baresi was incredible. Then we met again in the 1994 World Cup Final, one of the most important matches of our lives.
"I can say it without a single doubt, he was the toughest player I faced in my career.
"In 1997, I had the honour of participating in his farewell game. The guy was on another level! He was a symbol of Milan and the Italy team. One of the greatest defenders in history.
"I send my respect for everything he did for football, and my affection to his family and friends. May the Heavenly Father welcome him in peace. Vale, Baresi." Romario