Andrea Pirlo is widely expected to be appointed as the new head coach of the Italy national team within days, after Pep Guardiola formally rejected the position. The former Juventus and AC Milan midfielder has emerged as the Italian Football Federation’s (FIGC) preferred candidate following unsuccessful approaches to Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti.
The Azzurri have been without a permanent manager since Gennaro Gattuso resigned in early April, following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup via a play-off final defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31. Technical director Paolo Maldini and special advisor Leonardo have spearheaded the recruitment process, initially targeting Ancelotti before holding talks with Guardiola in Barcelona.
Guardiola demands end pursuit
Guardiola’s decision to decline the role centred on financial and personal considerations. Reports indicate the former Manchester City manager requested a salary of €20 million and expressed uncertainty about returning to work immediately after a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Sources suggest he harboured doubts regarding the “remote” nature of international management, where daily contact with players and staff is limited compared to club football.
Pirlo’s contract and current situation
Pirlo is anticipated to sign a contract extending until the 2030 World Cup, with an annual salary of approximately €1.5 million. This figure represents a significant reduction from the financial demands of other candidates previously under consideration, including Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte.
The 47-year-old must first resolve his existing employment in the United Arab Emirates, where he has been working since July 2025. Sources differ regarding his current employer, with reports variously identifying United FC of the Pro League or Dubai United of the First Division.
His selection appears influenced significantly by his strong relationships with Maldini and Leonardo, former Milan teammates who believe he will embrace their vision for overhauling youth development and establishing a technical identity for the national squad.
Immediate Nations League challenge
Despite the long-term nature of the project outlined by federation officials, Pirlo faces immediate competitive obligations. Italy’s upcoming Nations League campaign represents his first priority, with the Azzurri drawn in Group A alongside France, Belgium and Turkey. The fixtures, running from September through November, will influence Italy’s FIFA world rankings and future tournament seeding.
Pirlo’s managerial credentials include a Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana double during his solitary season at Juventus in 2020-21, followed by spells with Turkish side Fatih Karagumruk and Sampdoria in Serie B. An official announcement confirming his appointment could arrive before the weekend, allowing the 2006 World Cup winner to begin preparations for the September internationals.