Pep Guardiola has declined the opportunity to become the next head coach of the Italian national team.
Earlier this week, Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malago confirmed that discussions had taken place with Guardiola, who left Manchester City this summer after ten years in charge. Malago also suggested that the federation was prepared to make financial exceptions in order to attract the Spanish coach.
Italy also approached Carlo Ancelotti
FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini revealed on Thursday that Italy initially contacted former international Carlo Ancelotti about the vacancy.
Ancelotti is currently managing Brazil and has agreed to remain in that position. After his decision, the Italian federation turned its attention to Guardiola as it searched for a high profile coach capable of rebuilding the national team.
Guardiola has now informed the FIGC that he intends to follow through with his original plan to take a break from football. The former Manchester City manager wants to rest, spend more time with his family and travel before considering another coaching role.
FIGC offered Guardiola control over the project
Italy were reportedly prepared to offer Guardiola a substantial salary and considerable freedom to shape the position according to his own ideas.
The federation hoped those conditions would persuade one of the most successful managers in modern football to take charge of a national side that has missed three consecutive World Cups.
Guardiola took time to consider the proposal but ultimately decided not to accept it. His refusal leaves Italy searching for another coach before the next international fixtures.
Andrea Pirlo becomes the leading candidate
Former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo is now viewed as the frontrunner for the role.
Pirlo currently works as head coach of Dubai based United FC. Should he be appointed, his first major task would be to guide Italy through a Nations League group featuring France, Belgium and Turkey during the autumn.
He would then be expected to lead the national team’s campaign to qualify for Euro 2028.
