Italy are set to nominate Andrea Pirlo as their new coach.
Pirlo, in keeping with transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, has accepted the verbal proposal from the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) and can be confirmed as Gennaro Gattuso’s successor within the coming days.
The FIGC had approached Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti and former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, however each turned the job down.
As an alternative, Pirlo will now get the possibility to guide his nation, having gained the World Cup with the Azzurri in 2006. Italy haven’t gone past the group stage of a World Cup since that triumph, and have did not qualify for the final three tournaments.
Pirlo a questionable choose for Italy
Pirlo’s appointment could increase eyebrows given his uninspiring file in teaching thus far.
The legendary former AC Milan and Juventus midfielder is presently answerable for UAE aspect Dubai United.
Pirlo gained the Supercoppa Italiana and Coppa Italia throughout a spell with Juve that lasted below a 12 months. He additionally coached Sampdoria from June 2023 to August 2024, with Pirlo being relieved of his duties after a poor begin to the 2024-25 season after failing to earn promotion from Serie B within the earlier marketing campaign.
As such, Pirlo’s appointment represents a raffle for Italy and, after Pirlo’s former team-mate Gattuso did not get the Azzurri to the World Cup, there may be more likely to be scepticism that fortunes will enhance below the 47-year-old.
Italy return to aggressive motion for the primary time since dropping on penalties to Bosnia-Herzegovina of their World Cup qualifying play-off closing once they face Belgium within the UEFA Nations League on September 25.
