Paolo Maldini's choice is in: Andrea Pirlo, Italy's new boss

The uncertainty surrounding the future of Italy's national team has come to an end with the possible reunion of two former Milan stars. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Italy's new technical director Paolo Maldini has identified Andrea Pirlo as the ideal candidate for the national team's new head coach role.

This decision arrives after a rather lengthy process. Maldini and his advisor Leonardo's choice comes after a long period in which Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini were widely regarded as favourites, with even the audacious idea of approaching Pep Guardiola having been floated at one point.

One final step remains for the appointment to become official. Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago must approve the appointment; Malago is expected to meet the former midfielder soon, possibly even the same day.

The bond between Pirlo and Maldini explains the background to this choice. The connection between the pair dates back to the successful period the trio (including Leonardo) shared at AC Milan between 2001 and 2011; it is also recalled that Maldini had wanted to make Pirlo Milan's head coach in the summer of 2023, though that attempt ultimately fell through.

Pirlo's career history also supports this candidacy. A member of the squad that won the 2006 World Cup, the 47-year-old currently manages UAE side Dubai United FC; his managerial history includes winning the Coppa Italia with Juventus in the 2020-21 season, a spell at Karagumruk in the Turkish Super Lig, and a brief stint at Sampdoria that ended in August 2024. Pirlo's significantly lower salary demands compared to other candidates also make him a more realistic option given the FIGC's budget.

Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
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