By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Italy, July 20, 2026 - The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has reportedly held discussions with Pep Guardiola as it explores candidates to become the next head coach of the Italy national team, according to multiple reports in Italy led by Sky Sport Italia. The move underlines the federation's ambition to appoint a world-class manager capable of restoring the Azzurri to the summit of international football after another disappointing World Cup cycle.
While Guardiola's name has generated enormous excitement among Italian supporters, there is currently no agreement in place, and several hurdles remain before any appointment could become a reality. More importantly, Guardiola himself has publicly stated that he wants to take a break from coaching following the end of his decade-long spell at Manchester City.
Italy are searching for a new head coach following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, whose contract was terminated by mutual agreement earlier this year after the Azzurri failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The federation thanked Gattuso for restoring enthusiasm around the national team but acknowledged that a fresh direction was needed.
Since then, the FIGC has undergone significant changes under new president Giovanni Malagò, who has already begun reshaping the federation's football structure.
One of his first major decisions was appointing Paolo Maldini as Technical Director and President of Club Italia, with former Brazil and AC Milan star Leonardo joining as an advisor to the national team project.
The next major task is selecting the coach who will lead Italy into the UEFA Nations League and the qualification campaign for future international tournaments.
Guardiola Emerges as a Dream Candidate#
According to Sky Sport Italia, Guardiola has emerged as one of the names discussed by the federation during its search.
Few coaches possess a résumé comparable to the Spaniard's.
Across spells with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Guardiola has won multiple domestic league titles, UEFA Champions League trophies and numerous individual coaching awards, becoming one of the most influential managers in modern football.
His philosophy of positional play, technical excellence and aggressive pressing has transformed teams across Europe, making him an attractive option for any national federation seeking long-term success.
Although reports have linked Guardiola with the Italy job, Sky Sport Italia has also reported that there have been no confirmed direct negotiations resulting in an agreement, and FIGC president Giovanni Malagò has publicly urged patience as the federation completes its decision-making process. He acknowledged Guardiola would be an attractive appointment but stressed that the process remained open and that no final decision had been made.
Reports in Italy continue to mention other candidates, including Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo, while discussions within the federation are said to involve Maldini and Leonardo as part of a shared decision-making process.
The biggest obstacle to any potential appointment may be Guardiola himself.
After ending his highly successful tenure at Manchester City, the 56-year-old has made it clear that he is not ready to return to management.
Speaking recently about his future, Guardiola said he does not currently miss coaching and wants time away from football to focus on his personal life.
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He explained that he may coach again one day, but only when he genuinely feels the desire to return.
Those comments effectively cooled speculation linking him with the Italy job, at least in the immediate future.
Why Italy Want Guardiola#
The interest is understandable.
Italy have endured a difficult decade by their own lofty standards.
After winning UEFA Euro 2020, the Azzurri failed to build sustained momentum and have struggled for consistency on the international stage.
The federation's new leadership appears determined to modernize Italian football by investing in elite coaching, youth development and a clear footballing identity.
Guardiola's reputation for developing young players and implementing long-term tactical systems aligns closely with those ambitions.
The appointment of Maldini and Leonardo signals that Italy are attempting more than simply replacing a coach.
The federation has spoken about creating a long-term project that improves player development, strengthens the national team structure and builds continuity across all age groups.
Whoever becomes Italy's next head coach will be expected to work within that broader vision rather than simply prepare the senior squad for matches.
As things stand, Pep Guardiola remains a dream candidate rather than a confirmed appointment.
The Italian Football Federation is continuing its search, and while Guardiola's name has featured prominently in reports, his own desire to step away from management means any move appears unlikely in the short term.
For now, Italy's coaching search remains open, with several candidates still under consideration as the federation works to appoint the right leader for a new era. Whether that person is Guardiola or another experienced coach, the decision will be one of the most important in Italian football as the four-time world champions seek to rebuild and return to competing for major international honours.