Overview
- Leonardo Bonucci named Pep Guardiola as his preferred Italy coach, calling the choice a radical reset and saying it is very hard to pull off.
- Bonucci said he will stay in a technical role to link scouting of young players for June call-ups, with his federation contract running to June 2026.
- Under-21 coach Silvio Baldini will take charge of early June friendlies against Greece and Luxembourg because the FIGC presidential vote is set for June 22.
- Domestic options such as Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri remain under consideration, while Guardiola’s availability is uncertain due to his Manchester City deal reported through 2027.
- Italy missed the 2026 World Cup and is prioritizing young talent and stronger on-field leadership, with a tough Nations League group against France, Belgium, and Turkey from September set to gauge progress.