Dispute over Italy NT Coach: Pirlo Explains, Maldini Threatens to Resign

Andrea Pirlo is facing the possibility of losing the opportunity to become Italy's head coach after the dispute regarding his endorsement deal with Russian betting company Fonbet intensified.

According to earlier reports, Pirlo signed a contract to serve as a global brand ambassador for Fonbet while United FC Dubai Chairman Sergey Lomakin was rumored to have investment ties with the group that owns this betting company. If true, Pirlo's role may be seen as part of the club's promotional activities rather than a personal decision.

However, La Gazzetta dello Sport published an official statement from Mr. Sergey Lomakin, in which he completely denied the above information.

"I have no financial interest in Fonbet. United FC Dubai, where Andrea Pirlo works as head coach, also has no connection with Fonbet. The claims that I, United FC, and Fonbet are related are completely false," Mr. Lomakin asserted.

This statement leaves Pirlo with almost no grounds to argue that the Fonbet contract was a requirement of his club job. That means the former midfielder born in 1979 will have to bear full responsibility for choosing to cooperate with a Russian betting company.

The controversy deepened as Pirlo was in Moscow in May 2026 for a Fonbet promotional event. His appearance in Russia, which remains under international sanctions due to the conflict in Ukraine, triggered a strong backlash. Additionally, Italian law imposes strict regulations on promoting gambling activities, further damaging Pirlo's image.

With Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola both turning down the offer to coach Italy, Pirlo was once considered the top candidate for the Azzurri head coach position. However, the Fonbet incident quickly overshadowed the 2006 World Cup champion's prospects.

Under public pressure, Pirlo spoke out via his personal Instagram account to explain the situation.

"In recent days, I have been saddened to see debates surrounding my name and my potential to become Italy's head coach. Out of respect for the governing bodies, the Italian Football Federation, and all involved, I chose to remain silent. However, I now feel the need to clarify some issues."

Pirlo emphasized that throughout his playing and coaching career, he has always complied with the laws of the countries where he worked and the terms of the contracts he signed.

He explained that the partnership with Fonbet was established during his time in the United Arab Emirates and was purely commercial and sports-related.

"Attributing political meaning to this partnership is imposing on me views I have never expressed and do not hold."

Additionally, Pirlo thanked Paolo Maldini and Leonardo for their trust during the search for a new coach for the Italian national team.

"I want to thank Maldini and Leonardo for the respect and faith they have shown me. I am fully aware of their competence, seriousness, and love for Italian football."

The former AC Milan midfielder also expressed regret that a professional career decision quickly became the center of off-field controversy.

"My love for Italy is not dependent on any job. It is part of my history, my identity, and will always be with me."

Although Pirlo has not officially withdrawn from the race to become Italy's head coach, media observers believe his chances of overcoming the current controversy are very low. The Italian Football Federation will likely have to turn to other candidates.

Notably, if he cannot appoint the person he wants, technical director Paolo Maldini is also said to be considering resignation. This could push the Italian national team's coach search into a real crisis.