The search for Italy's new national team coach has fallen into disarray after Andrea Pirlo was ruled out and technical director Paolo Maldini resigned.
Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and is now struggling to appoint a replacement coach. Andrea Pirlo was removed from consideration late on Sunday night due to his role as a brand ambassador for Russian betting provider Fonbet.
Pirlo, who is under contract with United FC in Dubai, stated that the collaboration was “exclusively commercial and sporting in nature.” Federation president Giovanni Malago rejected the appointment after legal review found it was a personal partnership.
Earlier candidates Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti both turned down the role. Maldini, appointed only two weeks ago, resigned along with advisor Leonardo after backing Pirlo. Malago said a new coach is expected by tomorrow and stressed the need to focus on youth development.
