Italian FA chief Giovanni Malago has confirmed discussions with Pep Guardiola over the Italy national team job but admits there is no certainty a deal can be completed.
The Italian Football Federation has confirmed that talks have been held with former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola over the vacant Italy national team position. However, federation president Giovanni Malago has admitted there is still significant uncertainty over whether an agreement can be reached.
Speaking in an interview, Malago revealed that Guardiola has been approached as the federation searches for the right candidate to lead the Azzurri into a new era. While negotiations have taken place, he stressed that no breakthrough has yet been achieved.
Malago also acknowledged that the Italian FA would be willing to stretch its financial resources to appoint a manager of Guardiola’s calibre. He described the Spaniard as a special case and admitted the federation would make an exception when it comes to salary if it meant securing one of football’s greatest coaches.
Despite that willingness, the federation chief refused to raise expectations. Malago said he could not guarantee that Guardiola would eventually accept the role but insisted it was important to begin discussions and maintain communication with the former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City boss.
Guardiola is no stranger to Italian football. Before beginning his legendary coaching career, the Spaniard spent time in Serie A as a player with Brescia and Roma between 2001 and 2003, giving him valuable experience of Italian football and its culture.
Italy’s search for a new manager comes after another disappointing chapter in the nation’s recent history. The four-time world champions failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for a third consecutive tournament, increasing pressure on the federation to appoint a coach capable of restoring the country’s status among football’s elite.
Guardiola left Manchester City at the end of last season following one of the most successful managerial spells in modern football. During his decade at the Etihad Stadium, he won six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League and numerous domestic trophies, cementing his place among the greatest managers in football history.
Should talks with Guardiola fail to produce an agreement, Italy have alternative candidates in mind. Reports in Italy suggest former national team manager Roberto Mancini, who guided the Azzurri to the Euro 2020 title, and former midfielder Andrea Pirlo are both under consideration. With Belgium awaiting Italy in the UEFA Nations League on September 25, the federation will be keen to appoint a new head coach as soon as possible.
