The 40 names to replace Conte, De Biasi is the new favourite
As reported by Mario Sconcerti in yesterday’s Corriere della Sera, FIGC president Carlo Tavecchio has a shortlist of 40 names to succeed Conte when he steps down after Euro 2016. If we were looking in alphabetical order, then the first name on that list would be Massimiliano Allegri, but he is close to a contract renewal with Juventus. Then we head towards Gasperini, Mancini together with Spalletti and Montella.
The second group of candidates includes the men who are doing diligent work overseas, by this we refer to Ranieri, Di Biasi, people who have effectively re-launched their careers. Add to this category, Prandelli and Malesani. We then have the “luxury names” such as Lippi and Trapattoni and ex-players such as Cannavaro and Del Piero, but lack of experience will certainly rule them out. The federation will also consider promoting Di Biagio from Under 21 coach, to follow in the footsteps of Bearzot, Vicini & Cesare Maldini.
By the end of April the choice will be made and according to reports from Sportmediaset, Gianni De Biasi, who has worked wonders getting Albania to France this summer, is the current front-runner. The 59-year-old has already held talks with Tavecchio last month at the Panchina d’Oro ceremony. The FIGC are believed to be making one last attempt to try to convince Fabio Capello to take up the role but if as expected, he declines, then Di Biasi will be the favourite.
Steve Mitchell @barafundler
