Andrea Pirlo Appointed Head Coach of Dubai-Based United FC

Andrea Pirlo has been officially appointed as the new head coach of United FC, a football club based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The agreement was finalized on July 25, 2025, marking Pirlo’s return to the sidelines after nearly a year without a managerial role following his departure from Sampdoria in August 2024.

The former Italian international, widely celebrated for his playing career with Juventus, AC Milan, and the Italian national team—where he won the 2006 FIFA World Cup—will now lead a team competing in the UAE First Division League, the second tier of Emirati football.

Pirlo’s coaching experience includes previous stints with Juventus' U23 and senior team, Turkish side Fatih Karagümrük, and most recently Sampdoria. His managerial record so far has been mixed, with relatively short tenures at each club.

United FC concluded the previous season in fourth place, missing out on promotion after a disappointing finish that saw them go winless in their last four matches, drawing three and losing one. Club officials are hopeful that Pirlo’s reputation and tactical acumen will boost the team’s performance and help them achieve promotion in the upcoming season.

The Italian coach has already arrived in Dubai and is set to begin working with the squad in preparation for the new campaign. His appointment is seen as a significant step for United FC as they aim to strengthen their position within UAE football.