Pep Guardiola is expected to decide within the next 24 to 48 hours whether to accept the Italy national team manager position following a weekend of face-to-face talks in Spain. Paolo Maldini, the Azzurri’s new technical director, and special advisor Leonardo flew to meet the former Manchester City boss to outline a long-term vision to rebuild Italian football.
Initially, financial constraints were viewed as a major barrier to securing Guardiola’s services. However, Sky Sport Italia now reports that the Spaniard’s salary is not considered an obstacle. Instead, the focus has shifted to the sporting project itself, which aims to end Italy’s run of three consecutive missed World Cups.
Four-year plan to 2030
The proposal presented to Guardiola spans four years, targeting the 2030 World Cup as the ultimate goal. The strategy includes campaigns in the Nations League and European Championship, with particular emphasis on developing young players through the national youth system.
The Italian Football Federation hopes Guardiola’s appointment would signal a definitive break from recent international decline and restore the Azzurri among world football’s elite.
Strong Italian connection
Guardiola’s affinity with Italian football runs deep. He played for both Brescia and Roma during his career, forming a close bond with former Brescia coach Carlo Mazzone. He also speaks fluent Italian and regularly visits the country for holidays.
His relationship with Maldini is particularly significant. After winning the Champions League with Barcelona in 2009, Guardiola dedicated the trophy to the former Milan defender. “Winning this trophy in Italy is truly special for me. I dedicate this cup to Maldini,” he said following that victory in Rome.
Maldini returned to the Italian Football Federation earlier this year as technical director, tasked with revamping the national team structure. Securing Guardiola would represent a major coup for his new regime.
What happens next
While Guardiola has not yet closed the door on the opportunity, he has not committed either. Sources indicate a final decision is imminent. If he accepts, he would leave club management after a trophy-laden spell at Manchester City to take on the challenge of restoring Italy’s international credibility.
The coming days will determine whether the Azzurri secure one of the most sought-after coaches in world football or must return to their list of alternative candidates.