Overview
- Technical director Paolo Maldini and adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona for multi‑day, in‑person talks with Pep Guardiola to present a long‑term project for the Azzurri.
- FIGC president Giovanni Malagò publicly confirmed the discussions on Wednesday and said the federation would consider financial exceptions for a candidate of Guardiola’s stature.
- Guardiola has repeatedly said he intends to take a break from day‑to‑day coaching and insiders including transfer experts report he is determined to rest, making an immediate hire unlikely.
- The FIGC is keeping the conversation open while preparing fallback options such as Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini because a final decision must be made before upcoming Nations League and qualifying cycles.
- The approach is part of a broader Maldini‑led overhaul focused on youth pathways, scouting and coordination between clubs and the federation after Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup three times.