I think it is more Agnelli's ego than anyone's pride. If he decided to bring him back last summer there's nothing those two schmucks could've done about it.
The same reason why he fired Marotta, changed the logo, built the stadium, wants this European Super League, etc. He's a visionary, or at least wants to be one, grew up watching Lippi comeback not be the greatest, I think he even said one time something like it is better to end something a year early than a year late.
I think he loves Max, appreciates all he has done, he thinks the time has passed and that is it. Moving on.
Or maybe we were just too broke, Pirlo was cheap, Max wanted a Conte-like contract and we said no.
All I know if we didn't bring him back last summer when there was virtually no competition for the job, we are not doing it this summer when Zidane will probably be free or in a year or two when Pep is free etc.
It will be Roma, Inter, Milan for Allegri domestically or maybe RM or United abroad.