The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) confirmed that it is holding talks with Pep Guardiola as part of the process to choose the next coach of the national team, a search that enters its decisive phase after the departure of Gennaro Gattuso. Although the president of the organization, Giovanni Malagò, recognized the interest in the Spanish coach, he also made it clear that the negotiations do not guarantee a favorable outcome.

In statements to the Vivavoce program, Malagò explained that the dialogue with Guardiola exists and that the federation considers his possible incorporation as a real alternative. However, he insisted that the conversations still do not ensure that the coach will end up accepting the position.

“Exceptions have been made that, for example, concern the name that is so present these days: Pep Guardiola,” said the leader when referring to the financial effort that the FIGC would be willing to make to try to finalize the contract.

The president added that the organization decided to open this communication channel due to the relevance of the candidate, although he asked not to interpret this movement as a lack of interest in the rest of the candidates.

“It is not said that the operation will go ahead,” said Malagò. “It was important and right to open a dialogue and keep it alive, but that should not be interpreted as a lack of consideration for the other candidates.”

The FIGC keeps several options open for the bench

The federation is seeking to replace Gennaro Gattuso, who resigned more than three months ago after failing to qualify Italy for the World Cup, thus prolonging the national team's sporting crisis.

Malagò assured that the decision on the new coach will come within a short period of time and confirmed that Guardiola is not the only name considered by the Italian leadership.

Among the candidates he mentioned Roberto Mancini, the last coach who led Italy to win an international title by winning the Euro 2020 Championship, played in 2021, as well as former midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

The leader, who assumed the presidency of the FIGC just a month ago after the profound restructuring caused by Italy's absence from its third consecutive World Cup, left open the possibility of an unexpected candidate appearing before the official announcement.

"There may be a surprise. Wait a few more days and you will know everything," he commented.

Last weekend, Italian media reported that Paolo Maldini, current technical director of the federation, and his advisor Leonardo held a meeting with Guardiola to evaluate the viability of the Spanish coach assuming command of the national team. According to these versions, the negotiation continues to be complex despite the interest shown by the FIGC.

While the talks progress, the federation keeps all alternatives open with the aim of defining the coach who will lead the new project of the Italian team after one of the most complicated stages in its recent history.