Pep Guardiola Linked with Italy Job After Reported Talks with Paolo Maldini

Pep Guardiola has emerged as a leading candidate for the Italy national team job after reportedly holding talks with Paolo Maldini, according to Sky Sport Italia.

The report claims that Maldini, recently appointed as the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) technical director, travelled to Barcelona last week alongside his advisor Leonardo to meet Guardiola and discuss the possibility of the Spaniard becoming the next head coach of the Azzurri.

Guardiola’s Italy Links Gather Momentum

The meeting is believed to have focused on whether Guardiola would be interested in taking charge of Italy as they prepare for the next chapter of their international project.

While no agreement has been reached, the reported discussions have intensified speculation that the former Manchester City manager could be in contention to succeed as Italy’s next national team coach.

Guardiola, widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in football history, has been linked with several high-profile roles since leaving Manchester City, but the opportunity to lead a four-time FIFA World Cup winner would represent one of the biggest challenges of his career.

Italy Continue Search for New Head Coach

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed that the federation is considering several candidates and suggested the search extends beyond the names already reported in the media.

“There are other names as well,” Malagò said, indicating that the shortlist is broader than many expect.

Among the managers already linked with the vacancy are former Italy boss Roberto Mancini and ex-Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

Financial Considerations Remain Key

Malagò also stressed that appointing Italy’s next manager will depend not only on the preferred candidate’s availability but also on the federation’s financial plans.

The FIGC is expected to ensure any appointment fits within its 2026 budget, meaning both sporting ambition and financial sustainability will play important roles in the decision-making process.

For now, the search for Italy’s next head coach remains ongoing, but Guardiola’s reported meeting with Maldini has ensured his name will remain at the centre of speculation as the federation weighs up its options.