Paolo Maldini will decide today whether to accept an offer to become Italy’s technical director, although the outlook currently appears pessimistic, according to La Repubblica. Consequently, FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has identified three potential alternatives for the position, including Gianfranco Zola.

The former Milan and Italy defender is set to sit down with FIGC President Malagò for one final meeting, according to La Repubblica.

Maldini and Malagò set for showdown talks today

Maldini holds an offer to become the technical director for the Italian national team and has spoken with Malagò several times in recent weeks, including a discussion on Thursday.

However, reports suggest it is becoming increasingly unlikely that the football legend will accept the proposal.

Malagò has already offered Maldini unprecedented power as technical director, which would even allow him to select the new head coach.

Despite this, the former defender remains hesitant to accept the role. The decision stems primarily from the impact the position would have on his private life, as the job requires him to leave Milan and spend significant time working in Rome or at the Italy training centre in Coverciano, Florence.

Maldini will inform Malagò of his final decision today, though a positive outcome is not guaranteed.

If Maldini rejects the offer, FIGC leadership will turn to other candidates. Another former Milan star, Demetrio Albertini, currently sits at the top of Malagò’s list of replacements. The FIGC chief is also considering Chelsea and Cagliari legend Gianfranco Zola, as well as Inter and Italy icon Beppe Bergomi.