Former Italy midfielder and 2006 FIFA World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo has reportedly been ruled out of contention for a coaching role with the Italian national team because of his commercial ties to a Russian betting company, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Italian newspaper reported that Pirlo had expressed interest in becoming head coach of the national team, but his candidacy was blocked by the president of the Italian Football Federation over concerns about his partnership with the Russian bookmaker.
The report also said that Paolo Maldini, who was appointed as the national team's sporting director 16 days ago, is expected to leave his position. No official announcement has been made regarding his departure.
Pirlo's links to the Russian betting company have drawn scrutiny following his appearance at the Russian Cup Super Final between Spartak Moscow and Krasnodar as part of the partnership. Former Italy defender and fellow 2006 World Cup winner Marco Materazzi also attended the event. Materazzi later publicly apologised for his participation.
By Sabina Mammadli
