Paolo Maldini at heart of Italy’s push to land Pep Guardiola as Azzurri boss

Paolo Maldini joined forces with Leonardo to convince Pep Guardiola to take charge of Italy, as the FIGC races to name a successor to Gennaro Gattuso before the Euro 2024 curtain falls.

What happened?

Pep Guardiola has held talks over becoming the new head coach of Italy, according to Sky Italia. Paolo Maldini, the FIGC technical director, and Leonardo spent the weekend in Barcelona trying to lure the Catalan back into management. Guardiola left Manchester City at the end of last season after a decade in charge that delivered six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League.

Why it matters for Paolo Maldini

Maldini’s involvement signals the FIGC’s serious intent to land a world-class manager. The FIGC’s new president, Giovanni Malagò, told Sky Sport 24: “It took me two weeks to bring Paolo Maldini and Leonardo on board because they wanted to go into the details of what I had in mind.” He added that the trio share a clear vision and expects a decision “in a few more days.”

Who else is in the frame?

Roberto Mancini, Antonio Conte and Andrea Pirlo are also under consideration as Italy searches for Gattuso’s replacement. Malagò refused to rule out further names, insisting the shortlist is not yet closed. The FIGC aims to finalise the appointment within days as the Euro 2024 cycle nears its climax.

What Guardiola has said

Speaking last week, Guardiola insisted he is in no rush to return. “People say ‘Ah-in three months you will be back, in six months you will be back’,” he told OKX. “Maybe, but I have to feel it and experience that I really miss it. Right now I don’t feel that.” He cited family priorities and a need to step away from the dugout after 10 trophy-laden years at City.