Former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo has recently withdrawn from consideration for the national team head coach position. The decision follows reported conflicts regarding his professional association with the Russian betting operator Fonbet.
Pirlo was identified as a candidate to succeed Gennaro Gattuso after Italy failed to qualify for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The national squad missed the tournament for the first time in three consecutive cycles, prompting a coaching review.
Background on the Coaching Vacancy
Italian football authorities and fan groups raised objections to Pirlo’s continued involvement with Fonbet. The betting company maintains a commercial presence in the Italian market, and its executive leadership includes individuals with ties to Russian state structures. These connections triggered regulatory scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest.
The Italian Football Federation is now evaluating alternative candidates to lead the national program. Pirlo’s departure from the shortlist concludes a period of speculation regarding his return to international management.
Italy last failed to reach the FIFA World Cup finals in 2018. The national team previously secured consecutive tournament appearances in 2014 and 2018 before winning the 2020 European Championship.
The initial report regarding the coaching vacancy was published by iGaming Expert.