Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have held face-to-face talks with Pep Guardiola in Barcelona, formally offering the former Manchester City manager the Italy national team head coach position. The meeting, which took place over the weekend, represents the Italian Football Federation’s most ambitious attempt yet to fill the vacancy, though major financial obstacles remain.
FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed that an appointment is imminent, asking supporters for “just a few more days’ patience.” However, he acknowledged that securing a coach of Guardiola’s stature would require substantial investment that the federation currently cannot afford. Malagò revealed that any significant financial commitment might only become feasible in the 2027 financial year, noting the present budget covers merely the remainder of Gennaro Gattuso’s previous salary.
Guardiola’s Dilemma
The Catalan coach is reportedly evaluating the proposal after recently indicating his desire to take a break following a demanding decade at Manchester City. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Guardiola has “in mind taking time for his family and not restarting right away,” and Romano added: “If they manage to convince him, it’s a miracle and a masterpiece, because the chances are very low.”
Despite this, Italian media report that Guardiola is fascinated by the magnitude of the task, which would involve transforming Italian football culture across all levels. The challenge draws comparisons to Johan Cruyff’s influence at Barcelona. The former defender maintains a strong relationship with Maldini, having dedicated his first Champions League triumph as a coach to him in 2009.
Alternative Candidates
Should Guardiola decline the offer, Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini remain the leading alternatives, with Antonio Conte also under consideration. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Pirlo is the favourite should Guardiola reject the offer, while Corriere dello Sport indicates Mancini as the primary candidate in that scenario.
Malagò denied any rift with technical director Maldini or advisor Leonardo over the choice, insisting the trio will be “100% aligned” on the final decision. He pointed to Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni and Spain’s Luis de la Fuente as examples of coaches who achieved success through proper structural support rather than established reputations. “Whatever the person, we have to fix the organisation and methodology so that Italians play more and are valued,” he said.
A photograph of Maldini and Leonardo on their return flight from Barcelona, published by Romano, confirmed the weekend summit took place. The federation now awaits Guardiola’s response, expected imminently.