Andrea Pirlo Confirms Italy Manager Hopes Are Over After Betting Partnership Ends Bid

Andrea Pirlo has confirmed that he is no longer being considered for the Italy national team coaching job, admitting he is deeply disappointed after issues linked to his commercial partnership with a betting company brought his candidacy to an end.

Pirlo’s Italy Dream Comes to an End

The former Juventus and AC Milan midfielder had been widely regarded as the leading contender to become Italy’s next head coach after other high-profile candidates, including Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, ruled themselves out of the role.

Reports claimed Pirlo had even agreed to a four-year contract worth €1.5 million per season to lead the Azzurri into a new era. However, the proposed appointment has now fallen through, forcing the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to restart its search for a new manager.

Pirlo admitted he was saddened by the outcome, describing the situation as a major disappointment after coming so close to taking charge of his country.

Backed by Maldini and Leonardo

Pirlo’s bid to become Italy manager received strong backing from FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and special adviser Leonardo. Both former AC Milan teammates believed the 47-year-old was the right person to guide the national team forward.

Despite that support, concerns surrounding Pirlo’s commercial ties to a betting company ultimately prevented the appointment from going ahead, ending what had appeared to be a dream move for the Italian football legend.