Italy wants Guardiola as coach... Maldini leads negotiations

In this context, Paolo Maldini, who recently assumed the role of sporting director for the Italian national team, is leading vigorous efforts to sign Spanish manager Pep Guardiola to lead the Azzurri.

According to Sky Italia, a meeting has already taken place between Maldini and Guardiola, who became a free agent after leaving English club Manchester City at the end of last season. Brazilian executive Leonardo, who is also involved in the Italian national team’s sporting project, attended the meeting.

Reports indicate that the meeting took place in Barcelona, Spain, over the past weekend, marking the first official contact between the two parties to discuss the possibility of Guardiola taking charge of the Italian national team.

The Spanish manager recently stated that he is enjoying a period of calm following the conclusion of his tenure at Manchester City.

Guardiola’s connection to Italy is rooted in special memories, as he previously played for Brescia and then Roma after leaving Barcelona as a player. This experience left a deep impression on him and fostered a particular respect for Italian football.

Italian officials hope that, if appointed, Guardiola will restore the national team to its rightful standing after years of decline and failure, most notably the team’s absence from the World Cup finals for three consecutive tournaments, which was a major disappointment for Italian fans.

Although other names, such as former Azzurri manager Roberto Mancini and former Italian star Andrea Pirlo, have been mentioned among the candidates, reports suggest that Guardiola currently tops the Italian Football Federation’s list of priorities.