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Teams 3 October 2026

Gianni Rivera critical of choices at Italian

Italian football icon Gianni Rivera has spoken out about the management of the Italian Football Association. Rivera does not support the choice of Giovanni Malagò as chairman and is even more critical of the appointment of former national coach Roberto Mancini.

Gianni Rivera critical of Italian choices

According to Sports.

Why this matters

Gianni Rivera, an icon of Italian football, has expressed his concerns about the current leadership of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC). His criticism of Giovanni Malagò and Roberto Mancini points to a wider debate about the future of Italian football, especially after recent disappointments. Rivera's views could influence public opinion and the direction of the FIGC in the coming years.

Key points

  • Gianni Rivera critical of choices at Italian.
  • Italian football icon Gianni Rivera has spoken out about the management of the Italian Football Association.
  • Rivera: 'I didn't agree when Italy called Malagò, even less when Mancini came back'.

Former Milan player and Italian football icon Gianni Rivera has always been outspoken about Italian football and the policies within the Football Association. He recently indicated that he had doubts about the appointment of Giovanni Malagò as president of the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC). Rivera said he did not agree with this choice, which he believed was not in the interest of Italian football.

Rivera, who had an impressive career as a midfielder with AC Milan and the Italian national team, was asked about the federation's policy during a meeting. According to Rivera, the fact that Malagò, who comes from the sports world but without a specific football background, was put in charge was particularly remarkable. "I didn't think it was the right decision when Italy appointed Malagò as president of the FIGC," he said.

However, the former international went one step further by also speaking out about the association's trainer choices. Rivera was even less convinced when Roberto Mancini re-entered the national team picture. Mancini faced great expectations upon his return after his previous success with the European title, but according to Rivera this was not a logical choice from the point of view of continuity and structure within Italian football. "When Mancini returned, I agreed even less," said the former Milan playmaker.

Rivera's statements show that discussions surrounding policy and managerial choices in the Italian football world have by no means died down. Especially now that Italy is preparing for a new qualifying cycle, the role of the federation board and trainer remains the subject of intense discussion, not only among fans, but also among former international players. Rivera's criticism reflects broader concerns about the strategic direction of the Italian national team and the role of influential board members at the FIGC.

Although Rivera himself has not played a role in active football for years, his opinion continues to be widely picked up by Italian media. His words reflect the high expectations and critical view of former professionals on the ongoing challenges within national football, including the search for stability, innovation and sporting success at major tournaments.

What's happening now

The FIGC is likely to take Rivera's criticism seriously, especially given his status and influence in Italian football. This can lead to internal discussionson the suitability of Malagò and Mancini, and possible changes in the governance structure. The coming months will be crucial for the FIGC as they prepare for important competitions and the future of the national team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Gianni Rivera say about the Italian Football Federation?

Gianni Rivera has expressed doubts about the appointment of Giovanni Malagò as president of the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) and is also critical of the return of Roberto Mancini as coach.

Who has expressed doubts about Malagò and Mancini?

Gianni Rivera, former AC Milan player and Italian football icon, has expressed doubts about the choices made by the Italian Football Federation.

Why is Rivera critical of Malagò?

Rivera finds it remarkable that Malagò, who comes from the sports world but has no specific football background, has become president of the FIGC.

What are Rivera's concerns about Mancini?

Rivera is less convinced about the choice to reappoint Mancini as coach of the national team, especially from the perspective of continuity and structure within Italian football.

Why is this topic relevant now?

Rivera's comments come at a time when Italy is preparing for a new qualifying cycle, making the role of the federation board and coach a subject of discussion.

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