Pirlo's Italy job off: talks collapse amid betting controversy

Andrea Pirlo will not become the next head coach of the Italian national team. According to Sky Sport, the appointment process has been effectively halted, with all meetings regarding the early termination of his contract with United from the UAE canceled. Sources indicate that FIGC president Giovanni Malago has yet to approve the 47-year-old's candidacy, leaving negotiations in limbo. The delay has cast serious doubt on whether Pirlo will ever take charge of the Azzurri. The uncertainty could trigger a shake-up within the federation itself. Technical director Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo are considering resigning if Pirlo is ultimately blocked from the position. Italian media had previously reported that Pirlo's association with a Russian betting company added friction to the process. That connection, according to insiders, stirred significant controversy and may have influenced the federation's top brass to pull back from the deal.