Guardiola in Talks for Italy Head Coach Position

Giovanni Malago, the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), has confirmed that Pep Guardiola has engaged in talks about becoming Italy's next head coach. Malago indicated that "exceptions" could be made regarding salary for Guardiola, who is currently a prominent figure in football.

FIGC officials Paolo Maldini and Leonardo presented their vision to Guardiola last week, proposing that he would lead an 'Azzurro project' aimed at revitalizing Italian football. This initiative comes in the wake of Italy's failure to qualify for the expanded 2026 World Cup this summer.

Malago acknowledged the financial constraints facing the federation, stating, “In the short to medium term, saying we need to tighten our belts is an understatement.” However, he noted that exceptions might be made for a figure as significant as Guardiola.