Guardiola Italy job talks have emerged after the former Manchester City manager met FIGC officials over a possible national team role

Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emerged as a leading candidate for the Italy national team job after holding discussions with officials of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).

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Guardiola met with FIGC representatives as the federation continues its search for a new head coach following Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to Sky Italia, FIGC’s new technical director Paolo Maldini and his adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona to open talks with the Spanish coach about the possibility of taking charge of the Azzurri.

The meeting is part of Italy’s efforts to appoint an experienced manager capable of rebuilding the national team and restoring its competitiveness on the international stage.

However, Guardiola’s interest in the position remains unclear, with the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach yet to decide whether he is ready for a return to management.

The 55-year-old left Manchester City after a successful spell that included multiple Premier League titles, domestic trophies and the club’s first UEFA Champions League triumph.

Italy are looking for a successor to Gennaro Gattuso, who departed his role after the national team missed qualification for a third consecutive World Cup.

Other names reportedly being considered by the FIGC include former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo and ex-AC Milan and AC Milan manager Roberto Mancini.

A potential appointment of Guardiola would represent a major statement from Italian football officials as they seek to rebuild a team that has struggled in recent World Cup qualifying campaigns.

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The Spaniard’s tactical reputation and record of developing successful teams have made him one of the most sought-after managers in world football, although a final decision on his next move is yet to be made.