Italian media reports have revealed that Paolo Maldini, Technical Director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has initiated moves to convince Spanish manager Pep Guardiola to take charge of the Italy national team.
According to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio and Sky Sports, Maldini traveled to Barcelona over the weekend alongside his advisor, Leonardo. The duo held a direct meeting with Guardiola to discuss the possibility of him taking over the Azzurri.
The reports emphasize that appointing Guardiola is no longer just a dream for the FIGC, as official contact has been established in a serious attempt to persuade him to lead Italy into its next era.
Despite the approach, the former Manchester City boss has yet to make a decision, with negotiations remaining in their early stages and no agreement currently reached.
Should Guardiola decline the offer, reports suggest that Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo lead the list of alternative candidates for the Italy job.
Guardiola had previously expressed a desire to manage an international team at some point in his career. His name has also been linked with the England national team, should the FA decide to part ways with Thomas Tuchel following a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.
