Andrea Pirlo, the 2006 World Cup winner, has announced he is no longer a candidate to become the next head coach of the Italian national soccer team, expressing 'great bitterness' over the decision. Pirlo had been widely considered a leading contender for the role following Roberto Mancini's resignation in August. However, according to reports, his ties to a Russian sports betting platform ultimately derailed his candidacy. The former Juventus and AC Milan midfielder, now 45, had been working as a club coach in Turkey but was seen as a natural choice to lead the Azzurri. The Italian Football Federation has not confirmed any other names, but speculation has now shifted to other candidates, including Paolo Maldini, who is reportedly considering resignation from his current role at AC Milan. Pirlo's withdrawal marks a surprising turn in the search for Italy's next manager, with the federation expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.