Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have held face-to-face talks with Pep Guardiola in Barcelona as the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) attempts to lure the former Manchester City manager into the national team dugout. The meeting, which took place over the weekend, signals a serious approach for one of football’s most decorated coaches even as financial obstacles remain significant.
FIGC president Giovanni Malagò confirmed that an appointment is imminent, stating supporters need “just a few more days’ patience.” However, he cautioned that securing a high-profile figure such as Guardiola would require a substantial financial commitment. Malagò revealed that any such outlay might only become feasible in the 2027 financial year, noting the current budget reflects only the remaining salary from Gennaro Gattuso’s previous tenure. Malagò confirmed the search extends beyond Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo, acknowledging the constraints facing the federation.
While Mancini and Pirlo have dominated speculation, Malagò clarified that the search includes alternatives with different profiles. The president emphasized that the federation must prioritise structural improvements over marquee appointments. He pointed to Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni and Spain’s Luis de la Fuente as examples of coaches who achieved success through proper organisational support and youth development pathways rather than established reputations. “Whatever the person, we must fix the organisation,” Malagò stated, adding that the goal is to ensure “Italians play more and are valued.”
The Barcelona summit reframes a selection process that had appeared limited to domestic options. Malagò denied any disagreement with technical director Maldini and advisor Leonardo over the choice, insisting the trio will be “100% aligned” on the final decision. The presence of the FIGC executives in Spain was confirmed through social media posts showing them in the city during the weekend.
The pursuit of Guardiola represents a significant shift in ambition for the FIGC, which has historically favoured Italian coaches for the national team role. The Catalan manager commands one of the highest salaries in world football, forcing the federation to weigh immediate sporting desires against long-term financial planning. Should the economic barriers prove insurmountable in the short term, the federation may defer such an appointment until its financial position strengthens in 2027.