The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) have taken a bold and strategic step in their search for a new national team head coach, holding talks with Pep Guardiola in an effort to convince him to take charge of Italy.
According to reports from Sky Sports Italia, the FIGC delegation—led by newly appointed technical director Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo—travelled to Barcelona to meet Guardiola. The Spaniard has recently returned home following the conclusion of his tenure in England, where he managed Manchester City.
While it remains unclear whether Guardiola is willing to accept the role, the FIGC’s approach signals serious intent and concrete efforts to appoint a high-profile figure capable of transforming the national team.
Guardiola, now a free agent after ending a remarkable 10-year spell at Manchester City, left behind an extraordinary legacy—winning 20 trophies and achieving a historic 70.8% win ratio.
Italy’s situation adds urgency to the pursuit. Since their triumph at the UEFA European Championship 2020 under Roberto Mancini, the Azzurri have endured a significant decline.
They have failed to qualify for the last three major tournaments, including back-to-back absences from the FIFA World Cup,which had raised concerns about their standing on the global stage.
The federation also recently parted ways with Gennaro Gattuso by mutual consent in early April, leaving a vacancy that they are eager to fill with a manager of elite pedigree.
Ultimately, the move for Guardiola reflects Italy’s ambition to rebuild and re-establish themselves among international football’s elite. With his tactical brilliance and proven success, Pep is widely viewed as the ideal candidate to lead the Azzurri back to prominence—should he accept the challenge.
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