Pep Guardiola in Talks Over Italy Head Coach Role as FIGC Weighs Major Appointment
Pep Guardiola has emerged as a leading candidate to become Italy’s next head coach after Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago confirmed discussions have taken place.
Malago revealed that the federation is prepared to make financial exceptions to pursue the former Manchester City manager, acknowledging Guardiola’s elite status in world football.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Malago said: “Exceptions have been made, including for a name as significant as Pep Guardiola. There are obvious reasons for this, although there is no guarantee that the deal will happen.”
Guardiola left Manchester City at the end of last season following a remarkable 10-year spell that delivered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League. Before his success in England, he also enjoyed trophy-laden periods with Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Italy are searching for a new manager after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April, following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.
Former Italy boss Roberto Mancini, who guided the national team to UEFA Euro 2020 glory, and ex-midfielder Andrea Pirlo are also among the names linked with the vacancy. However, Malago stressed that the federation’s shortlist extends beyond those three candidates.
“We are looking for a specific profile, and these names certainly fit that category,” he said.
If appointed, Guardiola would become only the second foreign coach in Italy’s history. The only previous non-Italian to manage the Azzurri was Argentine Helenio Herrera, who shared the role with Ferruccio Valcareggi between 1966 and 1967.
Despite the speculation, Guardiola previously stated after leaving Manchester City that he intended to take a break from coaching. He admitted he needed time away from the pressures of management, saying he lacked the energy required to compete for major honours every season.
Whether Guardiola returns to the touchline with Italy remains uncertain, but the federation’s confirmed interest has already made him one of the biggest names in the race for the prestigious role.
