CT Italia: Andrea Pirlo Weighs In on the Mess and Thanks His Friends Maldini and Leonardo

From a great dream to the worst of nightmares. Andrea Pirlo has gone from the joy of coaching the national team to having to defend himself against serious accusations that have little to do with soccer. Tired of standing helpless in the face of media scrutiny, the 2006 World Cup champion has decided to speak out on social media.

“In recent days, I have watched with great bitterness the debate that has unfolded around my name and the possibility of taking on the role of head coach of the Italian national team. Out of respect for the institutions, the Federation, and all those involved, I have chosen to remain silent until now.

However, I feel it is my duty to clarify a few points. Throughout my career—first as a player and now as a coach—I have always conducted my work in full compliance with the laws of the countries where I have worked and the contracts I have signed. The professional collaboration at the center of recent controversy stems from my work in the United Arab Emirates and is exclusively of a commercial and sporting nature. To attribute a political significance to this collaboration is to attribute to me beliefs that I have never expressed and that do not reflect my views. I would like to thank Maldini and Leonardo for the esteem and trust they have shown me. I am well aware of their expertise, their professionalism, and the love they have always shown for Italian soccer.

I regret that a decision of a sporting nature was so quickly dragged into a public debate that ended up attributing to me meanings and intentions that do not belong to me. “My love for Italy does not depend on a position. It is part of my history, my identity, and will always be with me,” said Andrea Pirlo. Further developments are expected.