The first official moves for the future of Cagliari are underway. As of yesterday, Guido Angelozzi is no longer the Rossoblu's sporting director, his "relationship has ended" (as the club's statement states) after just one season (he could start over at Cremonese). The announcement of his replacement, Pietro Accardi, also Sicilian but from Palermo, is expected any moment now—perhaps as soon as today. Accardi, in turn, is finalizing his exit from Sampdoria. A former defender, Empoli was his launching pad as sporting director. A three-year deal awaits him on the island.
Muzzi's role
Young players remain at the heart of the project, needless to say, even for Cagliari in the 2026-2027 season. As was the case last year, the new sporting director's goal, in agreement with the coach, will be to create the right mix of players of varying experience. Accardi already has a rough list in his pocket, with Roberto Muzzi as his right-hand man. The former Rossoblu striker, currently technical director of the Primavera, is expected to step away from the youth sector and resume his role as club manager, which he was forced to relinquish with the arrival of Claudio Ranieri. This role will serve as a key liaison between the club, the team, and the coach. This way, Accardi will be able to focus on the transfer market beyond the two official transfer windows. Speaking of former sporting directors: Nereo Bonato has terminated his contract; he's expected in Modena.
The black and white trophy cabinet
Important news is also coming for the youth sector, with an excellent and particularly welcome return for Max Canzi. No longer as Primavera coach, however, but as head of the entire Rossoblu youth system. Following an exciting career as Juventus Women's coach (in two seasons, he won a Scudetto, a Coppa Italia, an Italian Super Cup, and a Serie A Women's Cup, in addition to the Panchina d'Oro award), a new scenario awaits the 59-year-old Milanese coach (he will turn 60 on July 4th, on the island at this point) in a career marked by constant changes and just as many successes. This time, as a manager. He will replace Oscar Erriu, who will continue to manage the Rossoblu's young players but in a different role. Canzi's point of contact will be sporting director Pierluigi Carta. Alberto Gallego is close to confirming his role as Primavera coach after securing survival in the play-offs.
One challenge after another
Mario Beretta's life as a second-choice coach. For five years, he was the Cagliari Primavera coach, and for a few months, he was also Walter Zenga's assistant in the first team. He then set out on his own among the professionals in Serie C, playing for Olbia, Turris, and Pontedera. In 2024, the call from Juventus Women marked yet another turning point for him in a crazy environment, even for women's football, at the international level. In Italy, he won everything he could possibly win, with significant success in the Champions League. The day before yesterday, he said goodbye with official thanks from the Bianconeri club. One minute after Giulini's call, a second later, Max said yes. For the next five years, he will therefore be the head of Cagliari's youth academy.
Fabiano Gaggini
