Azzurri forced to bypass Pirlo after Russian betting scandal

Amid a growing outcry in Italy over Andrea Pirlo’s role as global brand ambassador for a Russian betting company, the ITALY football federation has effectively ruled him out of the Azzurri coaching race, prompting the search to shift to Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, Stefano Pioli and Raffaele Palladino.

Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola have already turned down the proposal, leaving the federation to look elsewhere. Technical director Paolo Maldini and special advisor Leonardo had initially turned to Pirlo, hoping his profile would benefit the national side.

The backlash in Italy has even raised the spectre of legal action should Pirlo be appointed, given his Russian betting affiliation. FIGC President Giovanni Malago was recently photographed with coach Roberto Mancini, underscoring the urgency of finding an alternative.

Plan D now looms, which could see a return to the bench of either Antonio Conte or Roberto Mancini. Mancini would be more eager and certainly cheaper, yet both former Azzurri bosses might resent being considered behind Pirlo in the pecking order.

Stefano Pioli, who worked closely with Paolo Maldini at AC Milan, helped the club win the Scudetto before being dismissed by Fiorentina a few weeks into last season. He is currently a free agent and remains on the shortlist.

Raffaele Palladino, a 42‑year‑old coach inspired by Gian Piero Gasperini, enjoyed impressive spells with Monza, Fiorentina and Atalanta, steering the latter to a sixth‑place Serie A finish after taking over in November 2025. He left Atalanta by mutual consent this summer.

La dello Sport highlights other free‑agent candidates, noting the Technical director role at AC Milan and the broader coaching market. The term "coach" now carries added scrutiny amid the betting controversy.

The Pirlo episode illustrates how commercial ties can shape national team appointments, leaving the Azzurri with a narrowed pool of candidates and a pressing need to restore credibility.