The Italian soccer federation, known as the FIGC, has launched an urgent hunt for a new head coach after a third straight World Cup miss left the nation without a spot in the tournament’s final stage.
Paolo Maldini, appointed as the federation’s technical director, has confirmed that discussions are underway with two of the game’s most celebrated tacticians: Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti.
A Crossroads for Italian Football
Guardiola, who ended a ten‑year spell at Manchester City earlier this year, brings a résumé that includes 35 major titles and a reputation for reshaping modern tactics.
Ancelotti, currently tied to Brazil through a contract that runs until the 2030 World Cup, has already made history as the only coach to win the Champions League five times, having succeeded in Italy, England, France, Spain and Germany.
Brazil’s recent elimination in the round of 16, a 2‑1 loss to Norway, adds a layer of urgency to the FIGC’s search, even as Ancelotti’s future with the Brazilian side remains under discussion.
The federation is also weighing other experienced candidates, including Roberto Mancini, Antonio Conte and Andrea Pirlo, while Luciano Spalletti is mentioned as a possible dark horse.
Maldini emphasizes that the decision will not be rushed; the right appointment must align with Italy’s ambition to restore its standing on the global stage and to move past a period of underperformance.