A New Direction for the Azzurri
Italian football’s governing body, the FIGC, is searching for a new head coach after a disappointing campaign that saw the Azzurri fail to qualify for the World Cup. Paolo Maldini, recently appointed as the federation’s technical director, has said that discussions are already underway with two of the sport’s most celebrated managers.
Pep Guardiola, who ended a decade‑long spell at Manchester City at the close of the last season, is reported to be the federation’s top priority. The Spaniard’s trophy cabinet includes 35 major titles earned with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City, a record that has made him a coveted candidate for the national role.
Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, has recently signed a contract extension with Brazil that runs until the 2030 World Cup. The Italian coach, who has won league titles in Italy, England, France, Spain and Germany, also holds the unique distinction of having lifted the Champions League five times, a feat that adds to his appeal.
The search is not limited to these two figures. Former Italy coaches Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte are also mentioned as favorites, while Andrea Pirlo, a World Cup winner from 2006, is said to be in contention as well.
Italy’s recent setbacks, including a playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March that extinguished hopes of a third consecutive World Cup appearance, have intensified the pressure on the federation to appoint a coach who can restore the team’s competitive edge.
With a mix of experience and tactical innovation, the FIGC hopes to steer Italian football back to the summit. The outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.