Andrea Pirlo named Italy's new national team coach
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) opened a search for a new head coach after Gennaro Gattuso resigned following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo first contacted Carlo Ancelotti, then Pep Guardiola; both declined – Guardiola reportedly said “Non me la sento”. With the top candidates unavailable, the federation turned to former midfielder Andrea Pirlo. Pirlo, who is still under contract with United FC in the UAE, is expected to terminate that agreement and sign a four‑year deal that runs to the 2030 World Cup, earning roughly €1.5 million per season, far below the salaries demanded by the other candidates. The appointment is slated for formal announcement later this week.