Italy (Italië) turns to Mancini after Pirlo withdrawal stalls plans

Italy (Italië) has shifted its focus to former boss Roberto Mancini after Andrea Pirlo withdrew from the Azzurri job, a development reported today at 13:23. The Italian federation’s search for a new head coach intensifies as the deadline for the Euro 2024 campaign looms.

The update, posted at 13:23, noted that Pirlo’s candidacy collapsed because of his involvement with a Russian gambling company, a factor that "zette een streep door de aanstelling" according to the source.

"Ik ben in gesprek met Mancini, we wachten op zijn handtekening," the statement reads, quoted by La dello Sport from federation chairman Giovanni Malagò. The quote underscores the federation’s confidence that Mancini will sign promptly.

Pirlo had seemed the frontrunner, but the Russian‑company link proved decisive, ending any chance of his appointment. The episode highlights the federation’s sensitivity to off‑field controversies.

Italy's Azzurri overhaul hinges on Zola joining Mancini and Ranieri

Roberto Mancini, now 61, previously led the Italian national side from 2018 to 2023 and guided the team to the 2021 European title. His earlier tenure cemented his reputation as a seasoned Italian (Italiaanse) manager.

Three years ago Mancini made a controversial move to Saudi Arabia, taking charge of their national team, a decision he later described as a regretful step.

The new coach inherits a battered Azzurri badge: Italy missed three consecutive World Cups and exited the European Championship 2024 at the eight‑final stage, leaving the squad eager for redemption.

Mancini reinstated As Italy head coach, Ranieri named technical director

Italian media also point to Claudio Ranieri as a leading candidate to replace Paolo Maldini as technical director after Maldini’s brief sixteen‑day spell ended. Ranieri, now 74, concluded his distinguished coaching career last year.

De