Gianfranco Zola Joins Italy's Revitalisation Efforts as Youth Co-ordinator

FIGC President Giovanni Malagò has confirmed that Gianfranco Zola will be a part of the new setup aimed at revitalising the Italian national team, working alongside Roberto Mancini and Claudio Ranieri. Zola's specific role will be to oversee and co-ordinate the nation's youth football activities.

Following the recent appointments of Roberto Mancini as the new head coach and Claudio Ranieri as technical director, Federation chief Malagò had indicated that a third key figure would be brought in to complete the overhaul of the Azzurri program.

The appointment of Zola, a beloved former player for Chelsea, Parma, and Cagliari, had been widely anticipated. It is now official that the legendary Italian will be taking up a position within the Azzurri's academy system.

Zola's Role in Strengthening Italian Youth Football

"Ranieri and I were very keen on having Zola join us, and this decision was made in agreement with Lega Pro President Matteo Marani, meaning he will also continue in his role as vice-president of Lega Pro," Malagò stated in an interview with the news agency ANSA.

"Zola's immense charisma, his extensive knowledge, and his proven dedication to supporting young players, which he has demonstrated throughout his years with Lega Pro, provide the strongest possible foundation for building our future," Malagò added.

It has been confirmed that Zola will serve as the "co-ordinator of youth activity," a responsibility that will encompass all levels of the academy system, right up to the Under-21 national team.

Claudio Ranieri had previously expressed his desire to investigate the reasons behind the rising costs of youth academies, which he believes are limiting opportunities for talented players who might otherwise have progressed further in their careers.

Gianfranco Zola has held the position of vice-president of Lega Pro (Italy's third-tier league) since February 2023. His coaching experience includes stints at West Ham United, Watford, Cagliari, Al-Arabi, and Birmingham City. He also served as an assistant coach to Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea during the 2018-19 season.