Andrea Pirlo has accepted the role of Italy's new national team head coach, according to leading transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. The former Juventus, AC Milan, and Italy midfielder has agreed to a long-term project presented by technical directors Paolo Maldini and Leonardo.
Pirlo is expected to sign a contract running until the 2030 World Cup in the coming days, pending formalities. The appointment follows Italy's recent struggles, including multiple World Cup qualifying failures and a round-of-16 exit at Euro 2024.
Andrea Pirlo appointed new Italy head coach in major Azzurri rebuild after World Cup snub
Maldini and Leonardo, key figures from Pirlo’s successful Milan days, had initially targeted elite names such as Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, but turned to the 47-year-old after those talks did not materialise.
Pirlo, who won the 2006 World Cup with Italy and earned 116 caps, brings a technical, possession-oriented philosophy. His coaching career includes a Coppa Italia and Supercoppa Italiana triumph with Juventus, plus spells at Fatih Karagümrük, Sampdoria, and most recently Dubai United in the UAE.
The move signals a fresh start focused on youth development and long-term rebuilding, with Pirlo’s first major challenge being qualification for the 2028 European Championship. Fans have expressed a mix of nostalgia for the legendary player and cautious optimism about his relatively limited senior managerial experience.
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