Pirlo Emerges as Hot Favourite for Italy Job Chosen by Maldini: A New Azzurri Era?

FolioPitch.com – 13 July 2026 | Andrea Pirlo emerges as hot favourite for Italy job chosen by Maldini, according to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport. The Italian football legend, currently managing United FC in Dubai, has become the leading candidate to take over the Azzurri bench, reuniting with former Milan teammates Paolo Maldini and Leonardo.

The appointment of a technical director – a role previously absent in the FIGC structure – has paved the way for Maldini and his consultant Leonardo to shape the national team’s future. With the Nations League set to begin in September, the pressure is on to name a new head coach. While names like Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, and even Pep Guardiola have been floated, the latest reports indicate that Pirlo emerges as hot favourite for Italy job chosen by Maldini due to his personal connections and manageable salary demands.

Pirlo, 47, was a crucial part of Italy’s 2006 World Cup-winning squad and enjoyed a storied playing career at Milan, where he played alongside Maldini and Leonardo from 2001 to 2011. His coaching experience includes a stint at Juventus in the 2020-21 season, where he won the Coppa Italia, followed by roles at Turkish side Karagumruk and a brief spell at Sampdoria that ended in August 2024. Currently, he is in Dubai coaching United FC in the UAE First Division.

Maldini had reportedly wanted to hire Pirlo as Milan coach in 2023, but the move never materialized. Now, with the FIGC seeking a coach who can work within a tighter budget, Pirlo emerges as hot favourite for Italy job chosen by Maldini once again. His wage demands are significantly lower than those of other high-profile candidates, making him an attractive option for the federation.

The decision to bring Pirlo back into the Italian fold would mark a significant shift from the club-focused approach of recent years. While Conte and Mancini have proven track records at international level, Pirlo’s lack of extensive experience is seen as a gamble. However, his deep understanding of the Italian game and his successful playing career could inspire a new generation of Azzurri talent.

As Italy looks to rebuild after missing the 2022 World Cup and enduring a mixed Euro 2024 performance, the choice of coach is critical. Maldini and Leonardo’s preference for Pirlo suggests a desire for continuity with the past, but also a willingness to think outside the box. With the Nations League matches fast approaching, the FIGC is expected to make a final decision in the coming weeks.

In conclusion, Andrea Pirlo emerges as hot favourite for Italy job chosen by Maldini, and if appointed, he would bring a blend of legendary status and fresh ideas to the Azzurri. Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but for now, the stage is set for a potential homecoming of one of Italy’s most beloved footballing sons.