Italy have made a concrete attempt to appoint Pep Guardiola as their next national-team coach after Paolo Maldini and Leonardo held talks with the former Manchester City manager in Barcelona.
According to Sky Sport Italia, Maldini and Leonardo spent much of last weekend in the Catalan city and met Guardiola as the Italian Football Federation searches for the man capable of rebuilding the Azzurri.
The discussions reportedly went beyond an informal enquiry. Italy are now understood to view Guardiola as a genuine candidate rather than an unrealistic dream, although there is still no indication that the 55-year-old has accepted the position.
Guardiola left Manchester City at the end of last season after a hugely successful ten-year spell in England. He stepped down after winning 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League, explaining that both he and the club needed fresh energy.
The Spaniard initially suggested that he intended to take a break from coaching, which could complicate Italy’s approach. The federation must therefore convince him to return to work earlier than planned and take charge of one of international football’s most demanding rebuilding projects.
Italy are seeking a new direction after missing three consecutive World Cups. The federation’s new technical leadership believes Guardiola’s tactical authority, international reputation and ability to develop players could help restore credibility to the national side.
Guardiola also has strong links with Italian football. He played for Brescia and Roma during his career and has frequently spoken positively about the country and its football culture. His reported admiration for Maldini may also strengthen Italy’s position during negotiations.
Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini have also been linked with the vacancy, but the meeting in Barcelona suggests Guardiola has moved to the top of the federation’s shortlist.
No final decision has been reached, but Italy’s pursuit is now serious. Further developments are expected in the coming days as the federation attempts to discover whether Guardiola is prepared to interrupt his planned break and lead the Azzurri towards the 2030 World Cup.
