Andrea Pirlo’s chances of becoming Italy’s next national team manager have suffered a major setback following revelations about his links to a Russian betting company.
The former World Cup winner had emerged as a possible candidate for the Azzurri job, with support reportedly coming from the newly appointed Italian Football Federation (FIGC) technical director Paolo Maldini.
While coaching Dubai-based FC United, Pirlo became a global brand ambassador for Fonbet in October 2025, one of Russia’s biggest sports betting companies.
However, the partnership has raised concerns due to Italian regulations, which prohibit all direct and indirect advertising, endorsements, and sponsorships involving betting operators.
According to reports from Gianluca Di Marzio, Pirlo was informed that he was no longer under consideration for the Italy role. The FIGC president Giovanni Malagò has reportedly not approved the appointment, creating uncertainty around Maldini and Leonardo’s involvement in the federation’s new project.
Pirlo’s connection with Fonbet has become the centre of controversy, with the former midfielder initially arguing that the agreement was an extension of his professional role at FC United rather than a personal commercial deal.
However, club owner Sergey Lomakin has rejected that explanation, potentially increasing questions over Pirlo’s personal responsibility.
Further complications have also emerged due to European regulations and international sanctions introduced following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Reports suggest that Pirlo travelled to Russia several times as part of his Fonbet partnership, including a visit to Moscow in May 2026.
With Pirlo’s candidacy now weakened, Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte have reportedly become the leading options to take charge of Italy and guide the national team towards Euro 2028.
