FIGC confirms talks with Guardiola over Italy coaching role

From FIGC circles, it is said that an exception to the budget would be necessary to sign Guardiola. A federation official said the Spaniard's salary expectations were significantly above what is provided in the budget for a national team coach. Federation President Malagò, however, is prepared to take „die nötigen Schritte" (the necessary steps).

With the appointment of Guardiola, Italy would install a prominent foreigner on the coaching bench. In the federation's history, this would be unusual, as the FIGC has predominantly relied on Italian coaches in the past. Possible alternatives are therefore also being discussed.

Background: The search for Gattuso's successor

As candidates for Gattuso's succession, Paolo Maldini and Gianluigi Buffon had also been mentioned recently. Both are considered icons of Italian football. Buffon had not publicly committed to whether he could imagine the role as head coach.

The sporting situation of the Squadra Azzurra has been considered tense since the missed tournament. The federation is under pressure to make a sporting new beginning before the next major tournament phase. The expectations for the new coach are correspondingly high.

Guardiola's agents are said to have already made contact with the FIGC, according to information from Italy. An initial personal meeting in Rome is being discussed for the coming weeks. On the federation side, however, a meeting was neither confirmed nor denied.

Budget and negotiations

Gattuso had resigned from the position after the failed qualification for the previous major event. Since then, interim coach Alberto Gilardino has been leading the team. A permanent solution is pending, which is why the FIGC has intensified its search.

Should Guardiola agree, he would be one of the most prominent foreign coaches in the history of the Italian national team. According to the FIGC, the final decision is expected in the coming weeks.

With a view to the upcoming international breaks, the federation plans to gain clarity before the next competitive match. Should Guardiola decline, Maldini is considered the most promising candidate for the post.