Pep Guardiola Open to Italy National Team Job After Secret Meeting with Maldini
Pep Guardiola's potential move to Italy's national team is now a real possibility after a secret meeting with Maldini and his advisor, sparking intense speculation.
A discreet discussion could influence the direction of Italy’s national football team. Reports from Sky Sport Italia reveal that Paolo Maldini, alongside his advisor Leonardo, visited Barcelona last weekend to sit down with Pep Guardiola.
The purpose of their meeting was to explore whether the former Manchester City manager is interested in taking over the Italian squad.
This direct contact has sparked fresh speculation that Guardiola might be in the running to become Italy’s next head coach.
Meanwhile, Giovanni Malagò, president of the FIGC, reiterated in an interview with Sky Sport that the search extends beyond the familiar names already mentioned.
There are other names as well.
— Giovanni Malagò
The current shortlist includes figures like Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo, but that is not the full story.
Malagò also emphasized that financial considerations will play a role in the final decision, stating that the choice must align with the federation’s budget for 2026.
With the coaching vacancy wide open, discussions involving Guardiola have reignited interest and speculation within the football community.
