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Italian Football Federation are reportedly preparing an ambitious move to appoint Pep Guardiola as the next head coach of the Italy national football team.
The bold managerial pursuit comes after the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, leaving the Azzurri searching for a long-term leader capable of restoring the nation’s position among international football’s elite.
Guardiola Tops Italy’s Wish List
Italian football officials are understood to have placed Guardiola at the top of their shortlist despite the obvious challenges involved in securing one of the game’s most successful managers.
The former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City boss is widely regarded as one of football’s greatest tactical minds, making him an attractive candidate to lead Italy into their next major international cycle.
The federation hopes a world-class appointment could accelerate the rebuilding process ahead of future European Championship and World Cup qualification campaigns.
Alternative Candidates Remain in Contention
While Guardiola is viewed as the dream appointment, Italy have also identified experienced alternatives should negotiations prove unsuccessful.
Former Italy stars Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini remain among the leading backup options.
Both possess significant managerial experience and strong connections with Italian football, giving the federation multiple pathways as the search continues.
Rebuilding the Azzurri
Italy are aiming to establish long-term stability after recent changes within the national team structure.
The federation is expected to prioritise a manager capable of blending experienced internationals with emerging talent while rebuilding a competitive squad for future tournaments.
Key Highlights
- Italy reportedly target Pep Guardiola as national team manager.
- Search follows Gennaro Gattuso’s departure.
- FIGC want a long-term rebuild of the Azzurri.
- Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini remain alternative candidates.
- Guardiola is considered the federation’s preferred choice.
- Italy continue planning for future international competitions.
Final Takeaway
Italy’s reported pursuit of Pep Guardiola highlights the federation’s ambition to return the Azzurri to the top of international football. While securing the Spanish coach would represent one of the sport’s biggest managerial coups, experienced alternatives remain under consideration as the search for Italy’s next head coach continues.
