Italy’s Search for a New National Team Manager: Ancelotti and Guardiola in Focus

Background: Italy’s Coaching Vacancy and Recent Struggles

Italy’s national team has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, culminating in their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This marks the third consecutive World Cup that the Azzurri will miss, a significant setback for a nation with a rich footballing heritage. Gennaro Gattuso, who took charge after Roberto Mancini’s departure, resigned in April following the disappointing qualification campaign. His departure has left the FIGC with the urgent task of appointing a new head coach capable of restoring Italy’s competitiveness on the international stage.

The FIGC president Giovanni Malagò has emphasized the importance of securing a top-tier manager, reflecting the federation’s ambition to rebuild the team’s stature. The search has attracted significant attention, with several high-profile names linked to the role.

Initial Approach: Carlo Ancelotti’s Consideration

Before entering talks with Pep Guardiola, the FIGC first approached Carlo Ancelotti, a highly respected figure in world football and a former teammate of Paolo Maldini, the FIGC technical director. Ancelotti’s reputation as one of the best managers globally stems from his extensive success at club level, including multiple Champions League titles with AC Milan and Real Madrid.

Currently, Ancelotti is the head coach of Brazil’s national team, a position he has held since 2025. Despite Brazil’s exit in the last 16 of the recent World Cup, the Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed that Ancelotti will remain in charge until at least the 2030 tournament, following a contract extension in May. This commitment complicates the possibility of him taking over Italy immediately but does not rule out future involvement.

Paolo Maldini acknowledged that starting discussions with Ancelotti was a natural step, given his status and connection to Italian football. The FIGC’s intent was to explore options with those considered among the world’s elite before broadening the search.

Pep Guardiola: A High-Profile Candidate with Financial Considerations

Following the initial approach to Ancelotti, the FIGC entered talks with Pep Guardiola, who recently left Manchester City after a decade of unparalleled success. Guardiola’s managerial record includes six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, and a Champions League trophy, making him one of the most decorated coaches in modern football.

Guardiola’s potential appointment is complicated by financial factors. Reports from Italian media, including La Gazzetta dello Sport, suggest that Guardiola is seeking an annual salary of around 20 million euros (£17 million), which is roughly double the FIGC’s initial offer. While the federation president indicated that exceptions could be made regarding salary, no formal updates have been provided on negotiations.

Guardiola’s style of play and tactical acumen could offer Italy a fresh approach, but the financial demands and his recent departure from a high-profile club role add layers of complexity to the discussions.

Other Candidates and the FIGC’s Decision-Making Process

Beyond Ancelotti and Guardiola, other notable figures have been linked to the Italy job. Former managers Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, both of whom have previously led the Azzurri, are considered potential candidates. Additionally, Andrea Pirlo, a former Italy midfielder and coach, has been mentioned as a possible option.

Paolo Maldini has emphasized that while the FIGC hopes to finalize the appointment by the end of the week, the priority remains finding the right person rather than rushing the decision. This measured approach reflects the federation’s desire to rebuild the national team thoughtfully and sustainably.

The choice of manager will not only affect Italy’s immediate prospects but also shape the team’s tactical identity and development pipeline for years to come.

Implications for Italian Football’s Future

The appointment of Italy’s next head coach is a critical step in addressing the national team’s recent decline. Both Ancelotti and Guardiola bring world-class experience and distinct philosophies that could influence Italy’s playing style and competitiveness.

Ancelotti’s calm, adaptive management style and deep understanding of Italian football culture could help stabilize the team and nurture emerging talent. Conversely, Guardiola’s innovative tactics and emphasis on possession-based football might revolutionize Italy’s approach but require significant adjustments from players and staff.

Financial considerations and contractual commitments will play a crucial role in determining which candidate is ultimately chosen. The FIGC’s willingness to negotiate salary packages indicates their commitment to securing a top-tier coach capable of restoring Italy’s international standing.

Ultimately, the decision will signal the federation’s vision for the national team’s direction, balancing tradition with modern football demands.

What this means

Italy’s search for a new national team manager underscores the federation’s commitment to reviving a storied footballing tradition after recent setbacks. The engagement with world-renowned coaches Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola highlights the high stakes and ambition behind this decision. While financial and contractual complexities remain, the FIGC’s careful and deliberate approach aims to secure a leader who can restore Italy’s status on the global stage. Whether the future lies with Ancelotti’s steady experience or Guardiola’s innovative tactics, the appointment will be pivotal in shaping the next chapter of Italian football.