Pirlo’s Italy Appointment Called Off Over Russian Betting Brand Link

Andrea Pirlo‘s appointment as Italy’s new national team head coach has been called off after the Italian Football Federation decided not to proceed with the deal over his association with a Russian betting company.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano disclosed the development in a post on X on Thursday, saying the federation had halted the process before contracts were signed.

“Official: Andrea Pirlo appointment as new Italian national team head coach has been called off,” Romano wrote.

He added: “Federation president Malagò decides not to proceed with signatures due to Pirlo’s collab with a Russian betting brand. ❌”

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According to a post by Sky Sports Reporter, Gianluca Di Marzio he affirmed that Pirlo in an interview learnt he was no longer a candidate for the role on Sunday night.

Pirlo said, “I learned yesterday evening that I am no longer a candidate for the Italy national team head coach position.”

Andrea Pirlo, a 2006 FIFA World Cup winner with Italy, had been widely expected to take charge of the Azzurri after reports emerged that an agreement had been reached.

The former midfielder has previously managed Juventus, Fatih Karagümrük and Sampdoria since retiring from professional football. However, Italy will now continue its search for a new head coach following the collapse of Pirlo’s proposed appointment.