Andrea Pirlo is no longer in contention to become Italy’s next head coach after concerns over his sponsorship agreement with Russian betting company Fonbet reportedly ended his chances of taking the job.
The former AC Milan and Juventus midfielder had emerged as a leading candidate for the position after reportedly receiving the backing of former teammate and Italian Football Federation (FIGC) technical director Paolo Maldini, following reports that Pep Guardiola declined the role.
Pirlo, who currently manages Dubai United, was said to be close to reaching an agreement before several Italian politicians questioned his role as an ambassador for the Russian betting firm.
According to reports, officials believed Pirlo’s commercial ties could conflict with Italy’s support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Confirming his withdrawal from consideration, Pirlo said in an Instagram post on Monday that his agreement with Fonbet was purely commercial and linked to his coaching role in the United Arab Emirates.
“In recent days, I have witnessed with great bitterness the debate that has developed around my name and the possibility of taking on the role of Head Coach of the Italian national team.
“Out of respect for the institutions, the Federation, and all those involved, I have chosen to remain silent until now.
“However, I feel it is my duty to clarify certain aspects.
“Throughout my career, first as a player and now as a coach, I have always conducted my activities in full compliance with the laws of the countries in which I have worked and the contracts I have signed.
“The professional collaboration at the centre of the recent controversy arose as part of my career in the United Arab Emirates and is exclusively of a commercial and sporting nature.”
However, Dubai United owner Sergey Lomakin reportedly disputed that claim, stating Pirlo’s partnership with Fonbet was not a mandatory part of his coaching contract.
Pirlo also rejected suggestions that the endorsement reflected his political views.
“Attributing political meaning to this collaboration means attributing to me beliefs I have never expressed and that are not mine.
“I would like to thank Maldini and Leonardo for the esteem and trust they have shown me. I know their expertise, their seriousness, and the love they have always dedicated to Italian football.
“I regret that a sporting decision was quickly dragged into a public debate that ended up attributing to me meanings and intentions that are not mine.
“My love for Italy does not depend on a position. It is part of my history, my identity, and will continue to accompany me, always.”
Reports also suggest Maldini is unhappy with the decision by FIGC president Giovanni Malago and could resign from his position as technical director after Pirlo’s appointment was blocked.
Italian regulations prohibit advertising, sponsorships and endorsements involving betting companies.
Pirlo had reportedly become one of the leading candidates for the national team job after Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola declined the opportunity to manage Italy, which has failed to qualify for the last three FIFA World Cups.
Following Pirlo’s withdrawal, former Italy managers Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte are again being linked with the vacant position.