Overview
- Paolo Maldini said on Sunday that he and FIGC representatives flew to Barcelona, had lunch and spent the day talking with Pep Guardiola, who even began writing possible lineups on paper.
- Maldini said Guardiola declined the role because he was exhausted and recovering from back surgery, and he denied reports that Guardiola demanded a €20 million salary.
- The federation reviewed Italy’s player pools from under-17 level upward during the talks as it looked for a coach who could revive the national pipeline.
- Andrea Pirlo was discussed as a candidate but his prospects stalled over reported links to a Russian betting firm, and Maldini resigned as Italy’s sporting director during the selection process.
- Roberto Mancini has been signed as Italy’s new head coach, leaving the FIGC to address questions about youth development and its vetting of high-profile coaching candidates.