Italy Target Pep Guardiola as National Team Coach Following Major Federation Overhaul

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is making a determined effort to appoint Pep Guardiola as the next head coach of the national team after holding high-level discussions with the Spanish manager.

According to reports from Italy, newly appointed technical director Paolo Maldini, alongside advisor Leonardo, travelled to Barcelona for a series of meetings with Guardiola.

The talks reportedly focused on presenting Italy’s long-term football vision and convincing the former Manchester City boss to lead the Azzurri into a new era.

The federation is searching for a fresh direction after Italy’s disappointing failure to qualify for another FIFA World Cup.

The recent setback triggered significant changes within the federation, including the appointments of Maldini and Leonardo, who have been tasked with rebuilding the national team and restoring its place among football’s elite.

While Guardiola remains the preferred candidate, the federation is also considering experienced alternatives such as Roberto Mancini and former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo should negotiations fail to produce an agreement.

Guardiola recently became a free agent after ending a highly successful decade with Manchester City, where he captured numerous domestic and international trophies while establishing one of Europe’s most dominant teams.

However, the 55-year-old has repeatedly stated that he intends to take a break from coaching to spend more time with his family and recover after years of intense management.

Despite those comments, Italy's football chiefs appear hopeful that the opportunity to rebuild one of the sport’s most historic national teams could persuade Guardiola to return sooner than expected.

For now, discussions continue as the federation weighs its options in the search for a coach capable of reviving the Azzurri’s fortunes