Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-20 22:57:00.
Italy is exploring the possibility of hiring Pep Guardiola as their next head coach after the national team missed this summer’s FIFA World Cup 2026, according to a source from ESPN.
The conversation between Guardiola and the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) reportedly lasted less than a minute. Guardiola aims to take a minimum of one year away from football following his departure from Manchester City in May.
In recent weeks, three other national teams have also reached out to Guardiola’s representatives regarding his potential availability for international coaching. However, all inquiries have been met with the understanding that Guardiola is currently on a sabbatical, even as some countries expressed their willingness to wait due to the absence of major international tournaments in the coming year.
While the exact nations that have contacted Guardiola remain unconfirmed, the Netherlands is believed to be one of them, especially after Ronald Koeman stepped down following a disappointing round-of-32 exit to Morocco at the World Cup. England has also been frequently linked to Guardiola, although the Football Association insists they will continue with Thomas Tuchel, despite the team’s semifinal defeat to Argentina.
Italy is in the process of finding a new coach after Gennaro Gattuso resigned following a playoff loss to Bosnia-Herzegovina in April. The search for a new coach has been complicated by the FIGC first needing to elect a new president, which resulted in Giovanni Malagò defeating Giancarlo Abete on June 22.
Additionally, Paolo Maldini, a former AC Milan defender, has been appointed as the national team’s technical director, while ex-Brazil international Leonardo has joined in a consultancy role to assist in the coaching search.
Besides Guardiola, other candidates like Andrea Pirlo are being considered, although Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini currently lead the race for the coaching position. Italy has missed the last three World Cups, including those in 2018 and 2022, and has struggled in recent tournaments after previously winning the trophy in 2006. They have achieved greater success in the European Championships, claiming victory in 2021 under Mancini’s management.
FAQs
Why is Italy seeking a new coach?
Italy is looking for a new coach after Gennaro Gattuso resigned following a World Cup playoff loss.
Who are the leading candidates for the role?
Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini are the front-runners, with Pep Guardiola also being considered.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-20 22:57:00
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Tags: #Source #Italy #sound #Pep #Guardiola #manager #role
Tags: #Source #Italy #sound #Pep #Guardiola #manager #role
