Italy holds talks with Pep Guardiola over national team coaching job

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has reportedly initiated discussions with Pep Guardiola regarding the vacant position of head coach for the Italy national team. According to Sky Italia, key FIGC figures, including technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo, traveled to Barcelona for a three-day meeting with the former Manchester City manager.

The purpose of the meeting was to present Guardiola with the federation's long-term strategy for the Azzurri as they continue their search for a successor to Gennaro Gattuso. While the FIGC is making a concerted effort to secure the Spaniard for the role, it remains uncertain whether Guardiola is interested in coaching the national team at this time.

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the federation’s long-term vision for the Azzurri

Guardiola recently concluded a highly successful decade-long tenure at Manchester City, where he won 20 trophies and achieved a 70.8% win rate. He became a free agent after leaving the English club. The 54-year-old coach had previously expressed an intention to take a break from coaching to spend more time with his family before considering future managerial opportunities.

Other candidates reportedly being considered by the FIGC include former Italy boss Roberto Mancini and ex-Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo. The federation has recently undergone a significant restructuring, appointing Maldini and Leonardo as part of efforts to improve following Italy's failure to qualify for three consecutive FIFA World Cups.

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he wanted to spend more time with his family before considering another managerial role.