Soccer-Italy football federation president confirms talks with Guardiola for coaching role - reports
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president has confirmed discussions with Pep Guardiola regarding the vacant head coach position for the national team. Italy is seeking a high-profile manager to overhaul its struggling football infrastructure following recent failures.
Why it matters
Guardiola is considered one of the most successful managers in history, and his potential appointment would represent a major shift for Italian football.
July 22 (Reuters) - Pep Guardiola has held talks about becoming Italy's head coach, the country's football federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago told local media.
Guardiola left Manchester City this summer after a trophy-laden decade in charge, during which he won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League.
Italy have been searching for a new coach since Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April after the four-time world champions failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.
Speaking to Italian digital sports platform Cronache di Spogliatoio, Malago said discussions had taken place with Guardiola and suggested financial flexibility could be shown for a candidate of his stature.
"(Financial) Exceptions have been made, exceptions that for example may concern the name that is so overbearing in these hours: Pep Guardiola," said Malago.
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