Italy Turns to Andrea Pirlo as Next Azzurri Coach After Guardiola Passes

The Italian Football Federation has moved quickly to secure Andrea Pirlo as the new head coach of the Azzurri, following Pep Guardiola's decision to withdraw from contention. Pirlo, one of the finest midfielders to ever wear the blue jersey, is set to sign off on a long-term project that aims to restore Italy's standing on the global stage. The search began after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down following Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup, losing a UEFA playoff to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March. The FIGC then restructured its football leadership, bringing in Paolo Maldini as technical director and Leonardo as an advisor. The duo led the recruitment process and aimed high, approaching both Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti and free-agent Pep Guardiola. Ancelotti declined, having recently extended his contract with the Brazilian national team. Guardiola, who only left Manchester City after a decade, took nearly a week to mull over the offer following a secret meeting in Barcelona. Ultimately, he chose to step away from football to focus on personal matters, having separated from his wife Cristina Serra in late 2024. That left the door open for Pirlo, Maldini's preferred candidate. The 46-year-old has been coaching Dubai United in the UAE but has yet to find major success in management. His coaching career began in Juventus' youth system, then a tough spell in charge of the senior team where he saw the end of the club's Serie A dominance. Subsequent stints at Fatih Karagumruk and Sampdoria were short-lived. Nevertheless, his deep understanding of the game and close bond with Maldini have convinced the FIGC he is the right man to lead the Azzurri into a new era. According to insider, Pirlo has accepted the offer and will terminate his contract with Dubai United. The official announcement is expected in the coming days.