Andrea Pirlo’s expected appointment as Italy head coach faces delays due to his association with Russian betting firm Fonbet, while Luciano Spalletti eyes reinforcements.
Andrea Pirlo will become the new head coach of the Italy national team on a four-year contract running until the 2030 World Cup. The appointment follows Pep Guardiola’s decision to reject the position.
Gianluigi Buffon has declined an opportunity to return to the Azzurri setup, prompting the FIGC to consider Gianfranco Zola and Simone Perrotta for roles bridging Italy’s youth and senior sides.
Andrea Pirlo is widely expected to be appointed Italy head coach after Pep Guardiola rejected the role. The 2006 World Cup winner would reportedly take charge until 2030 on a contract worth approximately €1.5 million per season.
Italy have confirmed dates, venues and kick-off times for their UEFA Nations League Group A campaign against Belgium, Turkey and France, with fixtures scheduled from September through November.
Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s next head coach, leaving Andrea Pirlo as the frontrunner for the role under technical director Paolo Maldini.
Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon has reportedly rejected an offer to rejoin the national team under new technical director Paolo Maldini, prioritising family time over an immediate return to football.
The Italian Football Federation is prepared to make financial exceptions to attract Pep Guardiola, while Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi has pledged not to interfere in the selection process.
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo reportedly met Pep Guardiola in Barcelona to discuss the Italy national team role, with FIGC President Giovanni Malagò expecting a decision soon.
Raffaele Palladino has emerged as a candidate to become the next Italy national team coach, joining Andrea Pirlo and former managers Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte on the shortlist.