Pirlo appointment as Italy boss is in jeopardy due to Russia links, Maldini could follow if he goes | OneFootball

Andrea Pirlo was expected to be appointed as Italy’s new head coach following their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

However, there is serious doubt after scrutiny over his commercial ties to Russia triggered a political storm.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Paolo Maldini’s position within the Italian Football Federation is also reportedly at risk.

Pirlo had emerged as the overwhelming choice to replace Luciano Spalletti following an extensive search led by newly-appointed technical director Maldini.

Alongside advisor Leonardo, Maldini viewed the former Juventus boss as the ideal candidate to spearhead a long-term rebuild of the Azzurri.

However, what initially appeared to be a straightforward appointment has become increasingly complicated due to Pirlo’s connections with Russian betting company Fonbet.

He serves as a global ambassador, and his association with United FC president Sergey Lomakin is under the microscope.

The controversy has reportedly escalated beyond the football scene, creating a political headache for newly elected FIGC president Giovanni Malago.

The growing backlash has raised doubts over whether Pirlo’s appointment can proceed despite receiving the backing of the federation’s football department.

There is a growing belief that concerns surrounding Pirlo’s Russian links could be used as justification to overturn Maldini’s recommendation in favour of a more established figure.

Malago is understood to have explored alternative options, including Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte, but Maldini reportedly rejected both.

He sees Conte as a short-term appointment whose projects rarely extend beyond two seasons, while doubts remain after Mancini’s controversial departure from the national team in 2023.

The situation has also cast uncertainty over Maldini’s own future.

The former AC Milan director only accepted the technical director role after being assured he would have significant influence over selecting Italy’s next manager.

Should that authority be undermined, reports suggest he could consider stepping away from the project altogether.

Former Milan executive Leonardo could now be tasked with easing tensions between Maldini and the federation if Pirlo’s candidacy ultimately collapses.