Leonardo Bonucci to continue Italian Federation role despite managerial upheaval
Leonardo Bonucci will continue his technical role with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) until at least the end of his contract in June 2026, according to reports from Italy. The former Juventus and Milan defender, who began a pathway into coaching with the federation in 2024, is not part of the departed manager Gennaro Gattuso's staff and his agreement is separate. The FIGC has requested that Bonucci honour his existing contract, which sees him assigned to various national youth teams as needed.
Bonucci's relationship with the FIGC predates Gattuso's appointment as head coach of the senior national team. He initially joined as an assistant coach to Bernardo Corradi with the Under-20 side. His agreement with 'Casa Italia' stipulates that the federation can deploy him across different Azzurri squads based on requirements. Following Gattuso's arrival, and with mutual consent, Bonucci was attached to the senior team's staff. The recent upheaval, which saw the resignations of FIGC president Gabriele Gravina, delegation head Gigi Buffon, and Gattuso after Italy's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, has not altered his immediate duties.
His current work involves scouting and compiling detailed reports on Italian players and eligible prospects, a role he has maintained post-Gattuso. Last week, he was observed scouting at Bologna's match against Aston Villa in the Europa League and at Genoa versus Sassuolo in Serie A. This activity is a crucial component of his progression toward earning a UEFA Pro Licence, which is required to manage in Serie A. Bonucci obtained his UEFA A Licence last year, allowing him to coach in Serie C or serve as an assistant in the top two divisions.
For Bonucci, continuing this path represents a structured entry into management after a legendary playing career that included 121 caps for Italy and a central role in the Euro 2020 triumph. The recent World Cup qualifying disappointment was a significant blow, but sources close to the defender indicate he remains committed to the federation's project. His contract is set to expire in June 2026, at which point both parties will assess whether to continue their collaboration beyond the formal conclusion of his coaching internship.
The 37-year-old has consistently expressed his desire to move into management. Even before taking up his federation role, he had received interest from several managers, including Antonio Conte, to join their coaching staff. Bonucci's immediate focus is on completing his licensing qualifications before evaluating his next steps. His continued presence within the FIGC structure provides a thread of continuity during a period of significant transition for Italian football, as the federation seeks a new president and a permanent head coach for the senior team.
