Carlo Ancelotti has turned down an offer to become the head coach of the Italy national football team, choosing to remain at the helm of Brazil despite the Seleção’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Paolo Maldini, the newly appointed Technical Director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), confirmed that the Azzurri reached out to Ancelotti regarding a potential return to his homeland. However, the veteran manager declined the offer, affirming his commitment to his contract with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) through the 2030 World Cup.
Ancelotti’s World Cup debut with Brazil fell short of expectations, as the team suffered a shocking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16. This marked Brazil’s worst World Cup performance since 1990 and their first failure to reach the quarterfinals in 36 years.
Italy Pursues Pep Guardiola in Ambitious Overhaul
Following Ancelotti’s rejection, Italy turned its focus toward Pep Guardiola, who now tops the federation’s shortlist to lead a complete national team rescue mission after missing three consecutive World Cups.
Maldini and his advisor Leonardo traveled to Barcelona to meet with the former Manchester City manager. They offered him a wide-ranging role that goes beyond coaching the senior squad—including rebuilding the scouting network, selecting the Under-21 head coach, and unifying the tactical philosophy across all youth levels.
Financial demands remain a major obstacle. Italian media reports indicate that Guardiola is requesting €20 million per year, whereas the federation is prepared to break its wage ceiling with a €10 million annual offer—a record sum for the FIGC, yet only half of Guardiola’s requirement.
Additionally, Guardiola remains hesitant due to personal reasons, as he wishes to take a sabbatical to spend time with his family. Alternative targets include Andrea Pirlo (Maldini and Leonardo’s preferred choice), Roberto Mancini (backed by FIGC President Giovanni Malagò), and Antonio Conte, who is heavily supported by Serie A clubs.
