The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has elected Giovanni Malagò as its new president following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup, a crisis that has intensified concerns about the future of the national team.

Malagò secured victory over Giancarlo Abete, receiving 68.58 percent of the vote during the federation’s assembly in Rome. The 67-year-old succeeds Gabriele Gravina, who stepped down after Italy’s disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign came to an end in April.

The four-time world champions, Italy national football team, have now missed three consecutive FIFA World Cups, an unprecedented setback for a nation that lifted the trophy in 1934, 1938, 1982, and 2006.

Addressing delegates after his election, Malagò emphasized the need for renewal and collective effort, describing the federation as a major social institution that must inspire progress rather than dwell on past achievements. He called for a new era characterized by courage, ambition, and humility.

His appointment comes amid significant upheaval within Italian football. Following the qualification failure, head coach Gennaro Gattuso resigned, while legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon also stepped down from his role as head of the national team delegation.

Among Malagò’s immediate priorities are appointing a new national team manager, revitalizing youth development programs, and preparing for UEFA Euro 2032, which Italy will co-host with Turkey.

Calls for reform have grown louder in recent years, with figures such as Roberto Baggio warning that Italy’s player development system is no longer producing enough elite talent to compete consistently at the highest level.

Malagò summed up his vision with a message of unity, declaring that the challenges facing Italian football can only be overcome through collective action as the country seeks to restore its status among the world’s leading football nations.

Junenaija

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