Andrea Pirlo has been removed from consideration as Italy's national team coach, FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed.
The decision stems from Pirlo's role as a global ambassador for a Russian firm, which has strained Italy-Russia relations since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
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Malagò's review of contracts revealed that Pirlo's coaching role with United FC Dubai and his ambassador role were separate, but his personal agreement with the Russian company complicated matters.
The controversy has sparked internal conflict within the federation.
Paolo Maldini, Italy's technical director who initially chose Pirlo over more experienced candidates like Conte and Mancini, has expressed deep dissatisfaction.
He is prepared to resign if Pirlo is not appointed.
"He is a man of the field, passionate about football, an excellent manager with strong convictions," Malagò said of Maldini.
The president entrusted Maldini and advisor Leonardo with selecting the next national coach, showing great confidence despite public skepticism about Pirlo's appointment.
However, the situation shifted due to institutional concerns rather than technical reasons.
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Malagò plans to meet Maldini to emphasize that decisions tied to the national team involve broader responsibilities beyond coaching strategies.
"The Italian Federation and the national team are not clubs, but institutions with different responsibilities," Malagò explained.
He hopes to persuade Maldini and Leonardo to continue working together despite the setbacks.
Maldini reportedly feels the Russia controversy is a pretext and believes his decision-making autonomy has been undermined.
Malagò aims to renew trust in their shared technical project, which includes a long-term system focused on youth development and a unified playing style.
Facing the upcoming Nations League and a plan to reshape Italian football over 8-10 years, Malagò remains committed to the project.
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Should Maldini insist on resigning, Malagò will accept and consider alternative leadership paths for the national team.
