Andrea Pirlo says he won't coach Italy amid betting ties to UAE club
Andrea Pirlo will not take over as coach of the Italian national soccer team. The former star midfielder confirmed his removal from consideration on Monday following significant public and political backlash regarding his sponsorship deal with Fonbet, a Russian betting firm.
Critics raised concerns about the conflict between a national team leader and a company linked to Russia, given the ongoing geopolitical tension. Pirlo, who currently manages Dubai United in the UAE, maintained that the partnership is purely commercial and sports-related, stating it has no reflection on his personal beliefs or his loyalty to Italy. He emphasized that his love for the country remains a core part of his identity.
This development comes after the Italian Football Federation faced multiple rejections for the role. High-profile managers including Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti turned down offers to lead the squad, which has failed to qualify for the last three World Cups. Reports indicate that technical director Paolo Maldini, who backed Pirlo for the position, may now consider stepping down just over two weeks into his tenure.
The search for a new leader remains open. The Italian federation is once again evaluating options like Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte as they prepare for upcoming Nations League matches against Belgium, Turkey, and France in September and October. The situation reflects a broader struggle for the Italian team as they look for stability after a series of coaching changes and disappointing results on the international stage.