The Malta Football Association (MFA) announces the appointment of Emilio De Leo as the new head coach of the national teams and technical director. De Leo’s selection comes after an extensive evaluation process led by an advisory panel tasked with identifying the best candidate for these pivotal roles within the MFA’s technical framework.
De Leo, a UEFA Pro Licence holder and seasoned professional in Italian football, is set to bring a wealth of experience and expertise to Maltese football. The 46-year-old Italian has built a formidable reputation through years of collaboration with the late Sinisa Mihajlovic.
Both were working together at prominent clubs such as AC Milan, Torino FC, Bologna FC, and UC Sampdoria. His international credentials include serving on Mihajlovic’s coaching staff during his tenure as head coach of the Serbia national team from 2012 to 2013.
Following his introduction to the Malta FA Bureau, De Leo is set to meet the Executive Board and media on January 15. He will then commence his role on February 1, 2025. He will lead a bolstered technical team that includes three new appointees: Davide Mazzotta as U-21 national team coach, Pietro Matafora, and Mirko Valdifiori as assistant coaches for the senior team.
Vision and Strategic Objectives
MFA President Bjorn Vassallo expressed confidence in De Leo’s appointment. He also emphasized the coach’s standout performance during the selection process.
“Emilio De Leo emerged as the leading candidate based on his qualifications, experience, and vision. His presentation on football methodology and strategies to elevate Malta in international rankings greatly impressed the advisory panel. We are excited to welcome a coach of his caliber to spearhead our national teams and technical structure,” Vassallo said.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of the revamped technical structure in reinforcing the MFA’s commitment to player development and excellence across all levels of Maltese football.
De Leo’s Perspective for the MFA
De Leo expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity:
“I’m honored to be appointed as the national coach of Malta. I know how deeply passionate the Maltese people are about football, and it’s a privilege to lead the national team. This role comes with great responsibility, and I am committed to working tirelessly with my team to achieve success and help Malta grow in the international football arena.”
He commended the MFA’s professionalism throughout the recruitment process, which, he noted, reflected the association’s ambitious vision and high standards.
Thorough Recruitment Process conducted by MFA
The selection process for the national coach began in November 2024, immediately after Malta’s final UEFA Nations League qualifier. The advisory panel included top MFA officials, a former national coach, a former national team player, and an experienced foreign technical consultant.
The MFA crafted the technical structure to enhance coherence and synergy across its teams. De Leo’s assistants, Matafora and Valdifiori, both bring significant Serie A experience. Matafora will also serve as a grassroots specialist, focusing on youth development.
Upcoming Challenges
De Leo’s first major task will be Malta’s European qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Malta will host Finland on March 21 before traveling to Poland on March 24. Group G also includes Lithuania and the loser of the UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal between Spain and the Netherlands.
New U-21 Leadership
Davide Mazzotta assumes the role of U-21 coach, building on his previous experience as interim senior coach and assistant from 2020 to 2023. His appointment underscores the MFA’s focus on guiding young players through the critical transition to senior international football.
Mazzotta will lead the U-21 team into their next major challenge, with the UEFA Under-21 European Championship draw scheduled for February 6, 2025, in Nyon.
Looking Ahead
The MFA’s strategic appointments signal a renewed commitment to strengthening Malta’s football infrastructure and achieving progress on the international stage. Emilio De Leo and his team bring a fresh perspective and the expertise needed to drive the national teams toward success.
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