Russia connections: Italians examine Pirlo as national team coach candidate

In addition to the "Gazzetta dello Sport," "La Repubblica" and "Corriere della Sera" are also picking up the topic. According to them, the concerns are directed primarily at Pirlo's current involvement with first-division club United FC in Dubai. The club belongs to Russian billionaire Sergej Lomakin, which is politically delicate in light of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

Pirlo, who became world champion with Italy in Germany in 2006 and played 116 international matches, reportedly coaches United FC Dubai for a salary in the millions. At the same time, he serves as a global brand ambassador for the betting provider Fonbet. This role is also said to be under scrutiny according to the Italian newspapers.

What was reportedly planned was a four-year contract with the goal of leading Italy to the 2030 World Cup. The Russia connections of the 47-year-old could, however, cause the plan to fall through. Italy's association leadership now wants clarity before a decision is made.

Malago's new line

Malago had only recently taken over the FIGC presidency. His review is seen as an expression of a new sensitivity toward foreign-policy-tainted partnerships in sport. Should the suspicion against Pirlo be confirmed, the search for an alternative candidate for the "Squadra Azzurra" is likely to begin anew.

In Italy, meanwhile, Pirlo's sporting suitability is being debated. As a player, he was a defining figure in the Azzurri midfield, but his previous coaching posts are considered mixed. The current debate, however, revolves solely around extraordinary circumstances and not sporting arguments.

According to the assessment of Italian media, the review by the association is likely to take a few days. An official statement from the FIGC on the reports was not initially available. Pirlo himself has also not publicly commented so far.

Political entanglements in professional football

Should the FIGC ultimately reject the deal, the association would have to restart the entire selection process. Until then, it remains open whether Pirlo will actually become the successor of the previous national team coach or whether Italy will take a different path.

The affair also shows how closely sport, politics, and geopolitics are intertwined in football. What was once a purely coaching question has, through the war in Ukraine and the sanctions regime, become a matter that extends beyond victory and defeat on the pitch.

Meanwhile, the Italian national team is preparing for the upcoming tasks in the Nations League. Should the association decide quickly, the designated coach could be presented soon — provided the Russia question does not yet become a stumbling block.