Italian football’s search for a new national team coach has taken a high‑profile turn as the Italian Football Federation confirmed talks with Pep Guardiola.
The federation’s technical director Paolo Maldini and sporting director Leonardo travelled to Barcelona to meet the Manchester City manager, hoping to persuade him to accept the role of Italy head coach.
Guardiola, who announced his departure from City after a decade that yielded 20 trophies and a 70.8 % win rate, said he wants to step back from the club game to spend more time with his family.
Guardiola’s Vision for the Azzurri
His recent comments about a possible break have not dampened the FIGC’s enthusiasm; they view his tactical pedigree and international outlook as a potential catalyst for a team that has missed the last three major tournaments since the 2021 European Championship victory.
Among the alternatives on the FIGC’s shortlist are former Italy coach Roberto Mancini and club legend Andrea Pirlo, but Guardiola’s profile remains the most coveted.
The move comes as Italian football seeks to reverse a period of underperformance, with the national side failing to qualify for the World Cup and recent Nations League campaigns ending in disappointment.
If Guardiola were to accept, he would inherit a squad in transition, a fan base eager for renewal, and a federation determined to restore the Azzurri to the summit of world football.