Italy's decision confirmed: Pirlo to sign until 2030

Italy's months-long search for a head coach is reaching its conclusion. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) will sign Andrea Pirlo as national team head coach on a deal running until the end of the 2030 World Cup.

This is the natural outcome of Guardiola's official rejection, which we covered earlier. Following Guardiola's decision to turn down Italy's offer, Pirlo emerged as the favourite candidate.

The background to the process was also rather turbulent. It is recalled that FIGC's new technical director Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo first spoke with Carlo Ancelotti, who decided to remain committed to his project with Brazil (the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup); they then flew to Barcelona to meet with Guardiola, whose annual salary demand of €20 million was double what the federation could offer, and who ultimately turned down the offer, saying "I don't feel ready."

Maldini's preference also carries a personal connection. It is emphasised that Maldini, Pirlo's former Milan teammate, believes Pirlo can revitalise Italy's broken national football system.

The list of candidates was also notable. It is reported that Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini were also on the four-man shortlist for the position, vacant since Gennaro Gattuso's resignation in April 2026, but that recent developments have pushed Pirlo to the front.

The task ahead of Pirlo is also substantial. The 47-year-old, a member of the 2006 World Cup-winning squad who spent his playing career at AC Milan and Juventus and gained head coaching experience at Karagumruk and Sampdoria, will take on the task of rebuilding the country following Italy's three consecutive World Cup absences.

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
Image: Anadolu Agency