Interim coach Silvio Baldini has stated that he’s not focused on securing a permanent position as head coach of the Azzurri: “It doesn’t concern me. My goal was simply to be of help.”
Baldini achieved two victories in his role as Italy’s caretaker coach, triumphing over Luxembourg on Wednesday and Greece on Sunday.
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Greece 0-1 Italy: Insights from Baldini after the match
Young talent Francesco Pio Esposito netted the decisive goal in both matches.
Captain Gianluigi Donnarumma was the only seasoned player in a team featuring 19 debutants out of 24.
“I was not offering praise lightly. I recognize the potential of these players,” Baldini remarked after the match on Sunday.
CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Coach Silvio Baldini of Italy listens to the national anthem during the UEFA Euro U21 Qualification match between Italy and Armenia at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 14, 2025. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
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“When young players see rules as a benefit rather than a punishment, they have achieved the maturity required to form a strong team. From this point, they just need to continue developing. I was hoping we would receive a bit of luck as well, as it plays a role in everything. I wanted them to gain confidence from this experience. Following rules and maintaining an appropriate lifestyle should be viewed as advantageous, not negative.”
As many fans and analysts speculate about Baldini potentially leading the senior team instead of returning to the U21s, he stated, “Thank you, but my priority is to perform my job effectively. Unfortunately, in football, labels are applied quickly.”
“I feel the best way to counter those labels is through the performance these players exhibited on the field. I am not an unknown entity. My journey has been challenging, but fate has guided me here.”
CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Coach Silvio Baldini of Italy reacts during the UEFA Euro U21 Qualification match between Italy and Armenia at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 14, 2025. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
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When asked if he might consider coaching Italy come September, Baldini responded, “It doesn’t concern me. My only desire has been to be helpful. I am a part of the Italy family.”
“I took charge of these matches to ensure my players receive recognition for their achievements under my guidance.”
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) plans to elect a new president on June 22, 2026, after which a decision regarding the new head coach for Italy will be made.
Baldini also reflected on Italy’s U17 European Championship victory, after their win against Belgium.
“Our family, Italy, is founded on specific principles, and all our youth teams have shown consistent excellence and acquired trophies,” he concluded. “However, the transition from the Under-21s to the senior team has traditionally been challenging. I believe that transition has become smoother after these performances.”