Andrea Pirlo has emerged as the clear favourite to become Italy’s next head coach following Pep Guardiola’s decision to reject the role. The 2006 World Cup winner is anticipated to finalise terms that would keep him in charge of the national team through to the 2030 World Cup, with an annual salary of approximately €1.5 million.
The appointment would end Italy’s search for a permanent successor to Gennaro Gattuso, who resigned following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup via the play-offs. Technical director Paolo Maldini and special advisor Leonardo have led the recruitment process, initially targeting Carlo Ancelotti before turning their attention to Guardiola.
Guardiola explains rejection
Guardiola formally declined the Italian Football Federation’s approach this week. According to reports, 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 about the demands of international management, particularly the reduced daily contact with players and staff compared to club football.
Club conflict and contract details
Pirlo currently holds a managerial position in the United Arab Emirates, though sources differ on whether he leads United FC in the Pro League or Dubai United in the First Division. He assumed this post in July 2025, meaning terminating his existing agreement will be necessary before he can assume the Italy role.
His prospective deal with the national team represents a significant reduction compared to the financial demands of other candidates. Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte were also linked with the vacancy, while Ancelotti is expected to continue as Brazil’s head coach.
Milan connections and managerial record
The selection of Pirlo appears heavily influenced by his established relationships with Maldini and Leonardo, with whom he shared a dressing room at AC Milan. The federation’s leadership believes the 47-year-old would embrace their vision for overhauling youth development and establishing a technical identity for the senior squad.
Pirlo’s managerial curriculum includes a trophy-laden solitary season at Juventus, where he secured the Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana in 2020-21. Subsequent spells with Fatih Karagumrük in Turkey and Sampdoria in Serie B produced less convincing results, leaving his coaching credentials described as mixed by observers.
An official announcement confirming Pirlo’s appointment could arrive before the weekend, allowing the new coach to begin preparations for Italy’s next competitive fixtures.