Andrea Pirlo has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italy national football team. The announcement, made around 24th July 2026, follows confirmation that Pep Guardiola declined the opportunity to take on the prominent role.

According to Il Fatto Quotidiano, Pirlo has signed a four-year contract. This development marks a significant moment for Italian football, with one of its iconic former players now at the helm of the national squad.

Background

The search for Italy’s next national team coach had been a topic of considerable speculation, with several high-profile names reportedly considered for the prestigious position. Among these, Pep Guardiola was a prominent figure, with strong indications of interest from the Italian football authorities.

However, reports from Italy indicate that Guardiola ultimately turned down the offer. Corriere della Sera reported that Guardiola would not be the new national team coach, confirming his refusal to take up the post. This decision, reported on 24th July 2026, cleared the path for other candidates to be considered for the top job.

Pirlo’s Appointment and Contract

Following Guardiola’s refusal, Andrea Pirlo emerged as the leading candidate for the Italy national team coaching role. La Gazzetta dello Sport noted that Pirlo was ready for the role, with an announcement expected regarding his appointment and contract details.

Il Fatto Quotidiano subsequently reported that Pirlo has indeed been named the new manager of the national team. The agreement sees him sign a contract for four years. His remuneration for this period is set at 1.5 million, as reported by Il Fatto Quotidiano. This long-term commitment signals a clear direction for the national squad under Pirlo’s leadership.

The news of Guardiola’s decision not to become the new national team coach was widely reported, including by Corriere della Sera, paving the way for Pirlo’s appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Who has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italy national football team?
• A: Andrea Pirlo has been appointed as the new head coach of the Italy national football team.
• Q: What is the length of Andrea Pirlo’s contract?
• A: Andrea Pirlo has signed a four-year contract.
• Q: How much will Andrea Pirlo earn as the national team coach?
• A: His contract is for 1.5 million.
• Q: Was Pep Guardiola considered for the role?
• A: Yes, Pep Guardiola was reportedly considered, but he declined the opportunity to become the new national team coach.

What This Means for You

For London and UK news readers following major football developments, Andrea Pirlo’s appointment as Italy’s new head coach is a significant headline. Italy is a major force in international football, and the person at its helm influences the global football landscape. This news offers quick, clear coverage of a key story in the sport, particularly following the high-profile decision by Pep Guardiola to not take the role.

This development signals a new era for the Azzurri, potentially impacting future tournaments and international fixtures that garner significant attention across the UK. For fans of European football, it presents a fresh narrative to follow, as Pirlo, a celebrated figure from his playing days, now steps into one of the sport’s most demanding managerial positions. Keeping abreast of these coaching changes provides essential context for understanding the trajectory of major national teams.