Andrea Pirlo’s expected appointment as Italy coach is facing serious jeopardy, with Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malagò’s conspicuous silence over the weekend casting fresh doubt on the controversial move.
Malagò, who had contacted Pirlo on Thursday to offer support, notably did not follow up with a reassuring call on Saturday. Sources close to the negotiations view this communication breakdown as a troubling sign for the former midfielder’s prospects, suggesting the federation may be reconsidering its position.
Pirlo rejects “hypocritical” criticism
Speaking from a training camp in Austria with his Dubai-based side, Pirlo rejected the mounting criticism as instrumental and hypocritical. He mounted a pointed defence by questioning the morality of staging the World Cup in the United States, noting the country was simultaneously at war with Iran.
The backlash against the 2006 World Cup winner spans multiple controversies. Critics have highlighted a “Russia row” and his commercial ties to betting firm Fonbet, though the latter would become moot upon taking the national team role, which prohibits such partnerships. Political figures from the Democratic Party, Azione and Europa+ have publicly urged Pirlo to sever these links immediately.
Political figures voice scepticism
The resistance to Pirlo’s candidacy cuts across Italy’s political spectrum. Senate president Ignazio La Russa deployed withering irony in his assessment, branding the potential appointment a leap in the dark and warning that “the mountain may have produced a mouse”.
Sports minister Andrea Abodi has also expressed deep scepticism, describing the federation’s earlier approach to Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as a gamble. The comparison implicitly questions whether Pirlo represents a safer or more qualified alternative to the elite coach the federation initially pursued.
Historical parallels and uncertain future
Veteran observers have drawn parallels with Enzo Bearzot, who faced severe abuse upon taking the Italy job in the 1970s before guiding the nation to 1982 World Cup glory. However, the current political and media climate suggests Pirlo may not receive the opportunity to silence his detractors on the pitch.
Malagò now faces a decisive period of reflection over whether to endorse the choice reportedly favoured by federation vice-commissioner Paolo Maldini, or retreat from the appointment entirely. Pirlo remains in Austria with his club side as the federation deliberates whether to proceed with a coach who has yet to manage at senior international level.