The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) is awaiting a response from Pep Guardiola after the Spanish coach reportedly met with Paolo Maldini and Leonardo to discuss the possibility of taking charge of the Azzurri.
However, the Italian federation is now facing strong new competition from the English Football Association (FA), which has reportedly promised Guardiola the opportunity to become England’s head coach within the next year.
Guardiola is currently without a club after stepping down as Manchester City manager at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to his remarkable 10-year spell with the Premier League champions.
The 55-year-old is now ready for a new challenge, and while Italy’s national team is searching for a new head coach, England has also emerged as a serious contender for his signature.
England are currently managed by Thomas Tuchel, who guided the Three Lions to the bronze medal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tuchel remains under contract with the English FA until July next year, but his long-term future with the national team is still uncertain.
Meanwhile, Guardiola has never managed a national team during his illustrious coaching career. Before his successful tenure at Manchester City, he enjoyed trophy-filled spells in charge of Barcelona and Bayern Munich.