Italy have stepped up efforts to appoint Pep Guardiola as the next head coach of the national team, with Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malagò confirming that discussions with the former Manchester City manager are ongoing.

The Azzurri are looking to rebuild after missing out on a place at the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time. As part of that process, the federation has launched an ambitious search for a new manager capable of leading a long-term transformation.

Paolo Maldini and Leonardo meet Guardiola in Barcelona

According to Sky Sports, newly appointed FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and his adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona to meet Guardiola and outline Italy’s vision for the future.

The meetings reportedly lasted three days, during which the pair explained the federation’s strategy and attempted to convince the Spaniard to take charge of the four-time world champions.

Italy’s proposal is understood to extend beyond the senior national team. The federation wants to introduce a unified football philosophy across every age group, creating a consistent playing identity from the youth setup through to the senior side as part of a long-term project targeting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

FIGC President confirms dialogue with Guardiola

Malagò has publicly acknowledged Italy’s interest in Guardiola and said keeping communication open was an important step. “It was right and important to open a dialogue and keep it alive, keep it warm,” Malagò told Cronache di Spogliatoio.

The FIGC president admitted there is no certainty that the negotiations will end with an agreement. However, he suggested the federation could stretch its financial limits in an attempt to secure one of football’s most decorated managers.

Italian media reports have highlighted the significant difference between the federation’s traditional coaching budget and the salary Guardiola earned during his decade at Manchester City.

Guardiola still planning a break from coaching

Guardiola left Manchester City at the conclusion of last season after an extraordinary 10-year spell that produced 20 trophies. Although he is currently without a club, the Spaniard has consistently stated that he wants to take time away from football before considering another coaching role.

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“No plans for coaching for a while. Otherwise, I would be here. I need to step back,” Guardiola said during his final Manchester City press conference.

The 55-year-old has also spoken about wanting to spend more time with his father and children. He has explained that he no longer feels ready to commit to the relentless demands of elite club football on a daily basis.

International Football could change the picture

Despite his plans to step away from management, Guardiola has previously indicated that international football presents a different challenge from club management. That possibility has encouraged the FIGC to continue discussions, believing the less demanding international calendar could make the role more attractive than another club appointment.

Reports suggest Guardiola listened carefully as Maldini and Leonardo presented Italy’s long-term plans. However, he is believed to have repeated that he does not currently intend to return to coaching.

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Even so, the federation continues to view the talks as active while evaluating whether greater sporting control, responsibility for the wider national team structure and an improved financial package could influence his decision.

Italy continue search for new head coach

Italy have been searching for a permanent manager since Gennaro Gattuso left the position after Bosnia and Herzegovina beat the Azzurri on penalties in their World Cup play-off.

Following that setback, Maldini was appointed technical director to oversee major changes within the national team programme, with Leonardo joining as an adviser.

If Guardiola declines the offer, Andrea Pirlo is reportedly the preferred alternative for Maldini and Leonardo. Former Italy manager Roberto Mancini also remains among the candidates being considered.

Pep Guardiola
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Pep Guardiola | X [ANI]

Providing an update on the appointment, Malagò told Sky Sport Italy: “How long until the coach? Just a few more days’ patience,” while adding that the final decision would be made jointly with Maldini and Leonardo.

FAQs

Is Pep Guardiola in talks to become Italy’s head coach?

Yes. FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed that discussions with Pep Guardiola are ongoing.

Why is Italy looking for a new national team coach?

Italy are searching for a new manager after Gennaro Gattuso departed following the Azzurri’s World Cup play-off defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.