The Italian Football Federation, FIGC has reportedly opened talks with former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola over becoming the next head coach of the national team, the Azzurri.
According to Sky Italia, FIGC Technical Director Paolo Maldini and adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona, where they held a three-day meeting with the former Barcelona manager in an attempt to convince him to take the job.
The report said the duo presented Guardiola with the federation’s long-term vision for the national as Italy continues its search for a new manager to replace Gennaro Gattuso who left after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
It is not clear whether Guardiola is interested in the role, but the FIGC is seriously trying to appoint him.
Guardiola became a free agent after ending his decade-long spell at Manchester City, where he won 20 trophies and recorded a 70.8 per cent win rate.
He previously indicated that he intends to take a break from coaching after leaving City, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family before considering another managerial role.
Former manager Roberto Mancini who led Italy to victory at Euro 2020 and former Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo are also among the candidates being considered for the position.