Guardiola has reportedly turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s next head coach, choosing instead to continue his sabbatical after leaving Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola has reportedly rejected an offer from the Italian Football Federation to become the next head coach of the Italy national team, opting to remain away from football management for the time being.
🚨🇮🇹 Pep Guardiola says no to Italian national team head coach job offered by the Federation.
Guardiola considered the proposal this week but wants to dedicate time to his family, recharge and return into football later on. pic.twitter.com/IyavAYYN4J
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2026
According to reports, the 55-year-old was presented with a proposal by the federation but decided this week that he would not pursue the role.
The former Manchester City manager is understood to want more time away from the game after ending his decade-long spell at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola reportedly intends to focus on his family and continue recharging before considering a return to coaching.
Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City marked the end of one of the most successful managerial eras in football history. During his 10 years at the club, he won 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League crown.
His decision represents another setback for Italy as they continue searching for a permanent successor following a disappointing period for the national team. The federation had viewed Guardiola as one of its dream candidates for the position.
Italy’s hopes of appointing Carlo Ancelotti have also faded. The veteran coach is expected to remain in charge of Brazil through the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with reports suggesting he was never seriously considering the Azzurri role.
🚨 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: Carlo Ancelotti has 𝐑𝐄𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 Italy’s job offer, reports Ge Globo ❌🇮🇹
Paolo Maldini confirmed today that Italy approached both Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, but the latter has no interest in taking the job ✋
Ancelotti informed the Italian… pic.twitter.com/gTB8cFvkX3
— 433 (@433) July 23, 2026
With both Guardiola and Ancelotti seemingly out of the picture, Italy are now believed to be evaluating alternative candidates, including former national team coaches Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, as well as ex-Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo.
