Italy’s national team is preparing the way for Pep Guardiola, one of the most decorated managers in football history, to take the reins should he choose to do so. Giovanni Malagò, president of the Italian Football Federation, confirmed that financial exceptions are being considered for the Spaniard, who left Manchester City at the end of the 2023-24 season after a decade of success that included six Premier League titles and the Champions League.
Guardiola has already held talks with the FIGC, and while Malagò admitted that the deal is not certain, he noted that exceptions are being made, particularly for a name so prominent in the sport: Pep Guardiola. He did not elaborate on the specifics of the financial arrangements but suggested that there are reasons behind them that he is not required to explain.
Gennaro Gattuso resigned earlier this year after Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, marking a low point for the four-time World Cup champions. The federation is now looking for a fresh start, with Guardiola joining a list of potential candidates that includes Roberto Mancini, who led Italy to Euro 2020 glory, and Andrea Pirlo, the former midfielder who briefly managed the team.
Malagò confirmed that the shortlist extends beyond those three names, emphasizing that the federation is focused on a specific type of profile that aligns with its long-term vision.
The next step for Italy is a Nations League Group A match against Belgium on 25 September, which could come under the watch of a new coach soon.