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Manchester City legend Pep Guardiola has rejected an offer to become the new head coach of the Italian national team, according to reports from the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
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Guardiola, who left the Sky Blues in May after a trophy-laden decade, informed FIGC officials, including technical director Paolo Maldini, that he was honoured by the approach but does not feel ready to return to coaching at this time.
Pep Guardiola turns down Italy National Team role; Here's why
The decision was driven by personal reasons, with the 55-year-old keen to spend more time with his family following an intense period in club management. The FIGC had held talks with Guardiola over several days and were prepared to make significant salary exceptions and offer him the freedom to shape a long-term project aimed at rebuilding the Azzurri.
Italy have failed to qualify for the last three World Cups and are seeking a fresh direction ahead of the Nations League and Euro 2028 campaigns. With Guardiola opting out, attention is now turning to former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo, currently coaching in Dubai, as the leading candidate for the position. He has, as per reports, said yes to join the team.
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