Pep Guardiola in Talks to Become Italy Manager After Turning Down England Job

By ZongoPlus Sports Desk | July 20, 2026

Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly in talks with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) over becoming the next head coach of the Italy national team, in what could be one of the biggest managerial appointments in international football.

The development comes less than two years after Guardiola reportedly opted against taking charge of England, despite having reached a verbal agreement with the Football Association before extending his stay at Manchester City.

Italy Make Guardiola Their Top Target

According to reports from Italy, newly appointed FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo travelled to Barcelona for face-to-face talks with Guardiola.

The discussions are understood to have focused on Italy's long-term vision following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which led to the departure of head coach Gennaro Gattuso.

Guardiola is believed to be the federation's preferred candidate, although other names—including Andrea Pirlo, Roberto Mancini, and Antonio Conte—remain under consideration.

England Opportunity That Never Happened

Reports have also revived claims that Guardiola had previously agreed in principle to become England manager after Gareth Southgate's departure.

However, the Spaniard ultimately decided to remain at Manchester City, prompting the Football Association to appoint Thomas Tuchel instead.

Guardiola Has Called for a Break

Despite the talks, Guardiola recently insisted he wanted time away from football after ending his decade-long spell at Manchester City.

Speaking last week, he said he wanted to focus on his personal life and was not yet ready to return to coaching, suggesting he was enjoying his sabbatical.

Those comments have cast some doubt over whether he would accept Italy's offer immediately, even though discussions have taken place.

A Huge Challenge for Italy

If Guardiola accepts the role, he would inherit an Italy side aiming to rebuild after missing a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.

The four-time world champions are looking to restore their status among football's elite, and the appointment of one of the game's most successful coaches would represent a major statement of intent.

Decision Expected Soon

Italian football officials have indicated that a decision on the next national team coach could be made in the coming days.

For now, negotiations remain ongoing, with Guardiola yet to publicly confirm whether he is prepared to end his coaching break and take charge of the Azzurri.