The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed that it first held discussions with Carlo Ancelotti regarding the vacant national team manager position before engaging in talks with Pep Guardiola. This revelation comes as Italy continues its search for a new head coach following Gennaro Gattuso's resignation in April, which occurred after the nation failed to qualify for a third successive World Cup tournament.
Paolo Maldini, the FIGC technical director, stated on Thursday that the initial approach was made to Ancelotti, who is currently managing the Brazilian national team. "We cannot hide the fact that we also spoke to Carlo before talking to Pep," Maldini commented during a news conference, adding, "Frankly, it seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world." Ancelotti, a former teammate of Maldini for both Italy and AC Milan, took charge of Brazil in 2025 and extended his contract in May of this year, securing his tenure until the 2030 World Cup, despite a recent World Cup last-16 exit to Norway.
Earlier this week, FIGC president Giovanni Malago had disclosed that talks had been held with Pep Guardiola, who departed Manchester City this summer after a decade of significant success. Malago suggested that "exceptions" could be made regarding Guardiola's salary. However, reports from Italian news outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that Guardiola is seeking an annual salary of €20 million (approximately £17 million), which is reportedly double what the Italian federation was initially offering. Maldini declined to provide updates on the ongoing discussions when pressed about the report.
Guardiola, 55, enjoyed a highly successful period in England, leading Manchester City to an impressive six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and the Champions League during his ten years at the club. His departure from City has made him one of the most sought-after managers in world football, with Italy clearly keen to secure a high-profile coach to revitalise their national side.
The FIGC's technical director expressed a desire to appoint a new coach by the end of the week, though he emphasised that finding the right individual remains the ultimate priority. Beyond Ancelotti and Guardiola, other prominent names linked with the role include former Italy managers Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, as well as former Azzurri midfielder Andrea Pirlo, indicating a broad search for the next leader of the national team.