Report Buffon didn’t want Mourinho as Italy coach

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Jun 20, 2025 8:17 AM ET

According to La Repubblica, José Mourinho was a genuine candidate to become the new Italy coach, with the Azzurri’s technical sponsor ready to cover part of his salary, but Delegation Chief Gigi Buffon opposed his appointment.

Fenerbahce boss, Mourinho, was a genuine candidate to replace Luciano Spalletti as Italy’s head coach, according to La Repubblica.

The report claims that Italy and Mourinho’s sponsor, Adidas, were open to covering part of the Special One’s salary.

The FIGC, however, faced two significant obstacles.

Repubblica: Buffon didn’t want Mourinho as Italy coach

First of all, Fenerbahçe reportedly refused to release their coach without a transfer fee, and then Italy’s Delegation Chief, Gigi Buffon, disagreed with the possible appointment of the former Roma and Inter coach.

According to the report, the Azzurri legend is convinced Italy needed a different figure and an absolute Italy legend to replace Spalletti and boost Italy’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

What Buffon said about Gattuso appointment as Italy coach

Sources from previous days claimed Buffon had threatened to resign if Italy had brought back Roberto Mancini.

The former goalkeeper, however, clarified at Gattuso’s unveiling press conference on Thursday: “My contract ends on June 30 every year, so resignations were never an issue. We chose Rino in consultation with the President and the other professionals we spoke to. I don’t think there are good or bad coaches at this level, but rather coaches who are functional to what the team needs. It was a good moment for Rino to become the national team coach.

“These are responsibilities that one tasks. Time will tell if it’s right or not. If the decision was not right, you take a step back.”

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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