Andrea Pirlo is poised to become the next manager of the Italian national team following Pep Guardiola's decision to decline the role, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport. The UAE's Al Ain coach has moved to the forefront of the Azzurri's search after the Manchester City manager ruled himself out of contention for the position.
Paolo Maldini and Leonardo, who hold significant influence over Italy's footballing direction, pivoted their focus to Pirlo once Guardiola rebuffed their advances. The Italian federation sought a younger tactician aligned with contemporary football philosophy—someone receptive to counsel and collaborative in approach. This strategic preference elevated Pirlo above rivals Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, despite questions about his management presence in the notoriously demanding Italian dressing room.
Building a Long-Term Project
The federation's leadership structure addresses potential concerns about Pirlo's personality. Malagò, president of the Italian Olympic Committee, has entrusted Maldini and Leonardo with substantial authority over the national team's trajectory, positioning them to enforce standards and manage interpersonal dynamics. Negotiations with Pirlo have reached an advanced stage, with the former midfielder eager to lead an ambitious rebuilding initiative at international level.
The vision extends far beyond immediate results. Maldini envisions an 8-to-10-year transformation beginning with youth development at ages 12 and 13, fundamentally reshaping Italian football from its foundation. Pirlo is expected to sign through the 2030 World Cup, with an estimated salary of €1.5 million annually—below the €2 million Mancini commanded.
The Italian Football Federation will hold its federal council meeting next Tuesday, where an official announcement is anticipated despite the council's consultative role in the appointment process. This marks a pivotal moment for Italian football as the federation embarks on its most comprehensive overhaul in recent years.
