Andrea Pirlo accepts Italy job as Azzurri entrust 2006 World Cup winner with long-term mission to revive national team

Andrea Pirlo accepted Italy's offer to become head coach of the national team.

Pirlo agreed to a four-year contract leading a long-term rebuild after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

He will succeed Gennaro Gattuso, who left in April 2026 after Italy missed a third consecutive World Cup.

Pirlo was chosen by Paolo Maldini and Leonardo after Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola rejected the role.

The appointment aims to revive the Azzurri under a new technical structure overseen by Maldini and Leonardo.