Giovanni Malago, president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has acknowledged that discussions have taken place regarding the possibility of hiring Pep Guardiola as the head coach of the Italian national team. The federation is open to making financial concessions to secure a high-profile manager, with Malago specifically mentioning that the 55-year-old Spaniard is a candidate for whom such exceptions might be necessary.
Italy has been searching for a new leader since Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April following the nation’s failure to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive time. While Malago confirmed that Guardiola is being considered, he emphasized that the appointment is not guaranteed. Other candidates, including former Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo, are also under evaluation for the role.
Although the Italian national team has traditionally been led by domestic coaches, with rare historical exceptions, the federation is clearly widening its search. Guardiola, who concluded a highly successful decade at Manchester City this past summer, has prior experience in Italy as a player, having spent two seasons in Serie A with Brescia and Roma. Despite his previous statements about needing rest, the potential to manage Italy remains a significant possibility for the acclaimed coach.
