The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed that it held discussions with former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti as it searches for a new coach to lead the national team.

Italy is looking to rebuild after failing to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for a third consecutive time. The federation hopes to name its next head coach within the week, although officials have made it clear they are prepared to wait for their preferred candidate.

Paolo Maldini confirms talks with Guardiola and Ancelotti

New FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini addressed the media following a meeting with Serie A clubs attended by FIGC president Giovanni Malago and special advisor Leonardo. When asked about Guardiola, Maldini confirmed the federation had made contact with the Spaniard.

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“Honestly, today we can’t give news about what’s happening. You’ve identified one of our targets. We can’t hide that we also talked with Carlo Ancelotti before talking with Pep. Honestly, it seemed right to start with the best in the world, to see their general availability,” Maldini said. 

According to Maldini, he and Leonardo recently spent three days in Barcelona meeting Guardiola to discuss the possibility of taking charge of the Azzurri.

FIGC hopes for quick appointment

Italy wants to appoint its new manager as soon as possible but is not prepared to rush the process. Maldini said, “The best thing would be to announce the new coach this week, but even more to wait for the person we really want. So there’s urgency, but not so much inside us.”

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The appointment comes at a crucial stage as the national team looks to recover from another disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign.

Guardiola and Ancelotti among football’s most decorated coaches

Guardiola became available after leaving Manchester City at the end of last season, ending a successful 10-year spell in England. During his managerial career with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City, the 55-year-old has collected 35 major trophies.

Ancelotti, meanwhile, extended his contract as Brazil coach in May until the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Brazil’s campaign ended in the Round of 16 following a 2-1 defeat to Norway.

The 67-year-old remains the only manager to win the UEFA Champions League five times and has also lifted league titles in Italy, England, France, Spain and Germany.

Italy looking for a fresh start

Italy’s latest coaching search follows a difficult period for the national side. The four-time world champions missed another World Cup after losing their playoff against Bosnia and Herzegovina in March.

The result led to the resignations of former FIGC president Gabriele Gravina and head coach Gennaro Gattuso. Gattuso had taken charge only the previous June after Luciano Spalletti left the role.

Alongside Guardiola and Ancelotti, several other experienced names remain in contention. Former European Championship-winning coach Roberto Mancini, current Napoli manager Antonio Conte, and 2006 World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo have all been linked with the position as Italy continues its search for a new leader.

FAQs

Why is Italy searching for a new head coach?

Italy are looking for a new coach after failing to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup and following Gennaro Gattuso’s resignation.

Which coaches have Italy approached for the job?

The FIGC has confirmed it held talks with Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti during its search for a new national team coach.