The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) held talks with Pep Guardiola in July regarding the vacant position of Italy’s national team head coach [1, 2]. The discussion reportedly lasted about one minute as Guardiola, 55, plans to take at least a year off after leaving Manchester City in May 2026 following a decade at the club [3, 2].

Guardiola’s brief conversation came amid interest from three other national teams that have contacted him about possible coaching roles. However, Guardiola indicated that he is focused on resting and has not committed to new assignments [3, 2].

Italy’s coaching vacancy opened after Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April 2026, following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, marking their third consecutive absence after 2018 and 2022 [1, 3, 2]. Paolo Maldini was subsequently appointed technical director of the national team, while Leonardo joined as an advisor to assist in the coach search [3, 2].

Other candidates reportedly considered for the role include former Italy head coach Roberto Mancini, Andrea Pirlo, and Antonio Conte [1, 3, 2]. Italy won the 2021 European Championship under Mancini but has struggled on the world stage in recent years [1, 3, 2].

There are conflicting reports on the length and substance of Guardiola’s talks with Italy. One source claims detailed discussions took place over three days involving Maldini and Leonardo in Barcelona [1]. However, other sources indicate the talks lasted only about a minute, with Guardiola signaling his plans to take a sabbatical [3, 2].

Meanwhile, the England Football Association continues to back Thomas Tuchel, 52, as head coach despite criticism following England’s loss in the 2026 World Cup semifinal [1, 2]. Former England captain Wayne Rooney suggested the English FA might consider Guardiola if he becomes available, saying, "If Pep is available, then maybe you go and get him" [1].

The FIGC’s next step involves further exploring coaching options with Maldini and Leonardo leading the search as Italy looks to rebuild after missing three straight World Cups.