Ukraine Appoints Italian Coach Andrea Maldera to Lead National Team

Ukraine's football federation announced the appointment of Andrea Maldera as the new head coach of the national team on Monday. At 55 years old, Maldera becomes the first foreign manager to lead the Ukrainian squad, replacing Serhiy Rebrov who stepped down in April following the team's failure to qualify for the World Cup.

Andriy Shevchenko, president of the Ukrainian Football Association, described Maldera as "an Italian with a Ukrainian spirit," highlighting his five years of previous involvement with the national team. Shevchenko emphasized Maldera’s extensive experience gained from working with top clubs and coaches across Europe.

“Andrea brings a wealth of knowledge from his time with major teams and has achieved positive results,” Shevchenko noted. He added that Maldera is now ready to take on the role of head coach and understands the unique demands of managing the national team.

Background and Coaching Experience

Before his promotion, Maldera served as an assistant coach under Shevchenko until 2021, contributing to the national team’s technical staff during that period. After his contract with the Ukrainian Football Association ended, he continued his coaching career as an assistant to Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton & Hove Albion in England and Olympique de Marseille in France.

This appointment marks a historic moment for Ukrainian football, as Maldera is the first foreigner to lead the team, reflecting a new direction in the national squad’s management.