Rumors: Guardiola a Candidate for Italy National Team Coach
Italy's football federation, represented by Paolo Maldini, reportedly attempted to convince Pep Guardiola to become head coach, but the Spaniard declined, citing plans for a break.
Italian media outlet "Sky Sports" reports that newly appointed technical director Paolo Maldini traveled to Barcelona to meet with longtime Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. The meeting aimed to persuade the Spanish specialist to take over the Italian national team after Gennaro Gattuso was dismissed following failure to qualify for the World Cup.
However, according to ESPN, the conversation lasted only "one minute" – the 55-year-old coach indicated he plans to distance himself from football for at least a year. Three other national teams also contacted Guardiola and received a similar response. Some of these interested parties expressed willingness to wait, as no major tournaments are scheduled for the next season.
Rumors also suggest the Netherlands national team is interested in Guardiola after Ronald Koeman resigned following a loss to Morocco in the World Cup playoffs.
Pep Guardiola became a free agent for the first time in a decade, ending a ten-year stint with Manchester City. Under his leadership, the club won the Champions League (2022/23 season) and six Premier League titles.
Other candidates reportedly under consideration for Italy's head coach position include Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo.
