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The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has officially confirmed that Pep Guardiola is a leading candidate to become the next head coach of the Italian national football team. FIGC president Giovanni Malago revealed that the organisation is prepared to make a major financial ‘exception’ to attract the former Manchester City manager to the international scene.

FIGC target ambitious Guardiola appointment

FIGC president Malago has publicly acknowledged that Guardiola is one of the top names under consideration for the role of Italy’s new head coach. The Azzurri are looking for a replacement for Gennaro Gattuso, who resigned after Italy’s heartbreaking World Cup qualification play-off loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina — a result that saw the nation miss out on the World Cup for the third successive time.

Malago, who assumed the FIGC presidency on June 22, confirmed that preliminary discussions with Guardiola have already begun, despite the financial hurdles involved. He also clarified that Guardiola is not the only candidate being evaluated as Italy continues its search for a new leader.

According to reports, senior figures Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have already met Guardiola in Barcelona to discuss the opportunity, underscoring the federation’s determination to bring in one of the most successful managers in world football.

Malago confirms contact and outlines financial flexibility

During an interview on the Cronache di Spogliatoio podcast, Malago confirmed that talks with Guardiola had taken place, though he cautioned that these discussions might not necessarily lead to a formal agreement. He stated: “It’s not certain that this [talks with Guardiola] will lead to anything concrete, but I believe it was right and necessary to begin a conversation and keep communication ongoing.”

Malago admitted that Italy faces budgetary limitations but hinted that Guardiola’s calibre warrants exceptional consideration. “There are financial and budgetary issues,” he explained. “In the short to medium term, saying we’ll need to tighten our belts would be an understatement. However, certain exceptions can be made, especially when we’re talking about a name as significant as this.”

When pressed on whether he was referring to Guardiola, Malago responded simply: “Yes.”

Although Guardiola is the preferred choice, Malago emphasised that Italy’s search is not limited to him. The federation is exploring various options to avoid dependency on one candidate. He added: “No, absolutely not. But if we’re considering a specific profile, those names — Guardiola, Roberto Mancini, and Andrea Pirlo — certainly fit within that bracket.”

Guardiola’s sabbatical plans pose a major challenge

Despite Malago’s optimism and the willingness to offer an unprecedented salary, reports indicate that Guardiola remains inclined towards taking an extended break from football. ESPN has reported that initial discussions between the two parties were brief, with the Spanish manager reiterating his wish to spend time with his family after a demanding final season in England.

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano echoed this sentiment, stating that it would take a “miracle” to convince Guardiola to reconsider his decision. According to Romano, the coach intends to fully disconnect before evaluating his next professional move.

Italy continue search for new manager

While waiting for Guardiola’s final decision, the FIGC will persist in reviewing its shortlist of potential candidates. Malago confirmed that several other names are under active consideration, ensuring that Italy have alternative options if negotiations with the former Barcelona and Manchester City manager do not yield a positive outcome.