Italy is exploring the possibility of hiring Pep Guardiola as their next national team coach after failing to qualify for this summer’s World Cup, according to an ESPN source.
The source indicated that Guardiola’s dialogue with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) lasted only “one minute,” as he intends to take “at least” a year off after departing from Manchester City in May.
In recent weeks, three other national teams have also approached Guardiola’s representatives about the possibility of him transitioning into international management.
All inquiries have been met with the response that the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach is currently on sabbatical, though some interested parties have expressed willingness to wait for him since there are no major international tournaments next year.
While the source did not specify which countries had reached out, the Netherlands is believed to have shown interest after parting ways with Ronald Koeman following a World Cup round-of-32 defeat to Morocco.
England has also been frequently linked with Guardiola. The Football Association remains committed to sticking with Thomas Tuchel despite their recent World Cup semifinal loss to Argentina, although Guardiola may consider the position in the future.
Italy’s search for a new coach has faced delays following Gennaro Gattuso’s resignation after a playoff loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina in April.
The FIGC initially needed to elect a new president, with Giovanni Malagò selected over Giancarlo Abete on June 22.
Former AC Milan defender Paolo Maldini has since been appointed as the national team’s technical director, while ex-Brazil international Leonardo has joined as a consultant to aid in the search for a new manager.
Besides Guardiola, Andrea Pirlo’s name has also emerged in connection with the role, although Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini remain the leading candidates at this time.
Italy has missed the last three World Cups, including 2018 and 2022, and failed to advance past the group stage in both 2010 and 2014, following their triumph in 2006.
Their performance in the European Championships has been more successful; they won the tournament in 2021 under Mancini’s guidance.
ESPN’s Gabriele Marcotti contributed to this report.