Pirlo appointment as Italy coach in doubt over Russia links: Reports

Rome [Italy], July 27: Andrea Pirlo's appointment as Italy coach is reportedly doubtful again because of concerns within the national federation FIGC and from politicians over his contacts to Russia.
It was initially reported that the FIGC and Pirlo had reached an agreement on a contract until 2030 after top candidate Pep Guardiola had said he would not take the job.
Reports from outlets including La Gazzetta dello Sport, Corriere della Sera and La Repubblica now say that the deal could be off over the Russia links.
Pirlo, 47, is coach of United Arab Emirates club United FC Dubai which is owned by Russian billionaire Sergey Lomakin.
He is a brand ambassador for Russian oddsmakers Fonbet and was recently in Moscow for an autograph event, a visit that led to irritation beyond Italy in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Gazzetta dello Sport said that new FIGC president Giovanni Malago is now having Pirlo's various business connections checked.
Pirlo won 116 Italy caps and was a key player in their last World Cup title in 2006. His coaching terms apart from the Dubai club include Juventus and Sampdoria, both with modest success.
Italy failed to qualify for a third World Cup in a row in March which prompted the resignation of previous coach Gennaro Gattuso.
Source: Qatar Tribune