FIGC holds Guardiola talks as Italy search continues

The Italian Football Federation has held talks with Pep Guardiola about becoming Italy head coach, according to Sky in Italy. The discussions are reported as part of the search to replace Gennaro Gattuso, not as a confirmed appointment.

Paolo Maldini, now working as FIGC technical director, and advisor Leonardo are said to have travelled to Barcelona for a three-day conversation with Guardiola, outlining the federation’s project for the national team. Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo are also mentioned as candidates.

The timing is delicate for both sides. Italy are undergoing a broader reset after another failed World Cup qualification campaign, while Guardiola is available after ending a decade at Manchester City, where he built one of club football’s dominant modern sides.

The main uncertainty is whether Guardiola wants to return to coaching immediately. He has previously spoken about needing a break and spending more time with family, though international football could offer a very different rhythm from day-to-day club management.