Former Italy striker Roberto Baggio is poised to make a shock return to soccer as technical director at the Italian federation. The shy 43-year-old, who shone at the 1990 and 1994 World Cups, has shunned the limelight since retiring in 2004 and has only just started his coaching badges. “I have a great willingness to undertake the role,” the ex-Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan striker told reporters Monday after meeting federation officials. His appointment to the role, which includes advising coaches and nurturing young Italian talent, will be rubber-stamped Wednesday. Italy's recent World Cup flop has prompted the federation to choose the inspirational Baggio to head its technical division despite his lack of coaching experience. New Italy boss Cesare Prandelli will soon name his first squad for next week's friendly with Ivory Coast but has limited youngsters to pick from, an issue Baggio will be forced to address. Red Bulls sign Marquez New York Red Bulls have completed their second major post-World Cup signing with the acquisition of Mexico captain Rafael Marquez, the Major League Soccer club said Monday. Red Bulls, who brought in French forward Thierry Henry last month, said they had signed Marquez to a multi-year contract as the club's third ‘designated player'. Colombian Juan Pablo Angel and Henry are the other two players whose salaries are mostly outside the team's salary cap. Marquez, a defender who can also operate in midfield, has spent the past seven years with Spanish club Barcelona and previously played for French club Monaco. The 31-year-old was released from his contract with Barcelona on Saturday, paving the way for his move to the States. “Rafael has shown on the club and international level that he is one of the world's top players,” Dietmar Beiersdorfer, head of Red Bull Global Soccer, said in a statement. “He has been a winner at all levels and illustrated that he is a leader both on and off the field. We are thrilled that he decided to come to the Red Bulls at this time in his career.” Marquez, who had been linked with several European clubs said he was delighted with the move. “Coming to New York and playing in Major League Soccer was a chance that I could not refuse. I am committed to doing my very best to help the Red Bulls in their playoff push this year and compete for championships in the years to come,” he said. Marquez, who has played 94 times for Mexico and has been skipper since the 2002 World Cup, will be unveiled to the media at a news conference on Tuesday. FIFA gives Iraq officials extra year in power FIFA gave Iraq football officials an extra year in office to prepare for elections, after a sectarian dispute meant the federation missed a deadline to vote for new leaders. Monday's decision lifts the threat of Iraq being suspended from world football and allows the national team to prepare to defend its Asian Cup title next January. FIFA's emergency committee – comprising president Sepp Blatter and leaders of the six continental confederations – extended the mandate of the Iraqi Football Association executive through July 2011.
