Mancini Set for Italy Return After Maldini Exit Over Pirlo's Russian Betting Ties

Roberto Mancini is poised to return as head coach of Italy's national football team, just days after Paolo Maldini resigned as technical director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) amid a controversy involving Andrea Pirlo's links to a Russian gambling firm. The move, reported by Sky in Italy, marks a dramatic turn in the Azzurri's search for a new leader after missing out on a third consecutive World Cup.

Maldini and his adviser, Leonardo, quit their posts after only 16 days on the job. Their departure followed the FIGC's decision to abandon talks with Pirlo, their preferred candidate for head coach, due to concerns over his ambassadorial role with Russian bookmaker Fonbet. The war in Ukraine made those ties politically untenable, with FIGC officials and politicians objecting to the appointment.

Why Did Paolo Maldini Leave the FIGC?

Maldini's exit was abrupt and tied directly to the Pirlo saga. He and Leonardo had been brought in to overhaul Italian football after the Azzurri failed to qualify for the expanded 2026 World Cup. Their plan was to install Pirlo as head coach, but the FIGC's federal council, led by president Giovanni Malago, blocked the move over the Fonbet connection. Maldini, a legendary former defender, saw his authority undermined and walked away.

Claudio Ranieri is expected to replace Maldini as technical director, bringing his own experience to a federation in turmoil.

How Did Andrea Pirlo's Russian Gambling Links Derail His Candidacy?

Pirlo, a World Cup winner with Italy in 2006, had been the frontrunner for the job after Pep Guardiola turned it down. But his role as a global ambassador for Fonbet, a Russian betting company, sparked a political firestorm. In an Instagram post, Pirlo defended the partnership, calling it 'exclusively commercial and sporting in nature.' He added: 'To attribute a political meaning to such a collaboration means to attribute convictions that I have never expressed and that do not belong to me.'

Despite his defense, the FIGC decided on Sunday not to proceed with his appointment. Pirlo, currently managing UAE Pro League club United FC in Dubai, said he learned of the decision 'with great bitterness.'

What Happened With Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti?

Before turning to Pirlo, the FIGC had pursued bigger names. Maldini and Leonardo met with Pep Guardiola in Barcelona over three days, pitching a comprehensive 'Azzurro project' that would rebuild Italian football from the youth teams up. Guardiola, however, rejected the offer for personal reasons beyond football, according to Sky in Italy.

Carlo Ancelotti was also contacted but remains under contract with Brazil's national team. That left Pirlo as the next option, until his Russian ties became a dealbreaker.

Mancini's Return: A Safe Pair of Hands?

Mancini, who led Italy to victory at Euro 2020, resigned in August 2023 to take over as Saudi Arabia's head coach. His stint there lasted just over a year, ending after poor results in World Cup qualifying. Now, he is set to return to a role he knows well. The FIGC's federal council has been informed that Mancini will take charge, with an official announcement expected soon.

For a federation desperate for stability after missing two World Cups, Mancini offers experience and a proven track record. But questions remain about whether he can replicate his earlier success with a squad still in transition.

FAQ: Italy's Coaching Crisis

Why did Italy miss the 2026 World Cup?

Italy failed to qualify for the expanded 48-team tournament, marking their third consecutive World Cup absence. The failure triggered a major shake-up at the FIGC, including the short-lived appointment of Maldini and Leonardo.

Is Andrea Pirlo still coaching?

Yes, Pirlo is currently managing United FC in the UAE Pro League. He remains under contract there and has not commented on future plans beyond his statement defending his Fonbet ties.

What is Claudio Ranieri's role now?

Ranieri is expected to be named technical director, replacing Maldini. The veteran coach, known for leading Leicester City to a Premier League title, will work alongside Mancini to rebuild the national team structure.