Perfection doesn't exist, as opinions ruin the illusion of such a sentiment. Madara's true ideals were an Autocracy, one leader above all. Many would not agree to such notions, while others would, because as I've stated a many: peace & free will are mere facades. What people lust after is the illusion of peace; such is the creation of rule & law.
However, that's the misconception: "Itachi working in the shadows." Itachi learned that his former ways were incompetent, and that only through conjoined efforts would shinobi strive in the future. This is further established regarding his teachings to Naruto, Sasuke, and the reformation of Kabuto.
Itachi learned from his selfish bearing of the Uchiha clan's massacre, this is preached throughout the manga in his many appearances near, and far after his & Sasuke's final battle.
Of course Perfection doesn't exist, but we, human always aim for it. Madara's true ideals wasn't an Autocracy. He was fine with sharing power. Hell honestly, I don't think he cared about how the power is shared as long his clan ain't kept out of affairs and he get a say at the table.
But after seeing other villages being diffcult to reach an agreement with the hidden leaf village, He decided to flex a bit and say obey the hidden leaf village. Which, you can't really blame him. Because all them other villages wasn't gonna fall in line so easily unless they're getting a great deal resource out of it. Hell, 2 of the nations desired war during that time.
Itachi was the really the perfect ninja in the shadow. But the problem was, he was too damn one sided(only thought of Hidden leaf's interests). If he had also killed Danzo on that very night, he would be the perfect Dark Knight.
I only think Madara is the best choice because of what he said to Hashi before he faked his death.
"You got it backward. It is not the village that comes before family and friends. It is the other way around"
This clearly showed that He can be a better leader than Hashi as long he have friends by his side to support him.
Hashi was the best "people's person" but was too drunk with his dream becoming a reality and never thought about the future outcome of certain clans.