Pep Guardiola has turned down the chance to become the coach of Italy. Guardiola was the standout name on a list of high-profile candidates to replace Gennaro Gattuso after the Azzurri failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in succession.The Italian Football Federation president (FIGC), Giovanni Malago, had revealed that financial exceptions were being made to try to land the former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City boss. But Guardiola has still elected to reject the opportunity, instead deciding to continue with his break from management and spend time with his family, according to widespread reports, following the end of his storied decade-long tenure at City.FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini revealed this week that Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti had been approached regarding the vacant post.However, Ancelotti chose to remain in his current role, despite a disappointing World Cup performance that saw the Selecao go out in the last 16 with defeat to Norway.Roberto Mancini, who led Italy to glory at Euro 2020, is a candidate to return for a second spell in charge, while Andrea Pirlo is also a contender despite a disappointing coaching career to this point.The legendary former Italy midfielder, who is in charge of Dubai United, has had unsuccessful spells in charge of Juventus and Sampdoria.Italy return to competitive action for the first time since losing on penalties to Bosnia-Herzegovina in their World Cup qualifying play-off final when they face Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on September 25. Topics Italy National Football Team Pep Guardiola Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Albertini: Guardiola cant fix Italy while academies ignore young players Jon Fisher 24th July, 2026 Italy: Exceptions being made to try to lure Guardiola to Azzurri job Nicholas McGee 22nd July, 2026 Guardiola holds talks with Italy and considers swift return to football management Jon Fisher 20th July, 2026 England manager favourite Guardiola reveals what would tempt him back: I have a real connection with the UK Ben Miller 17th July, 2026 Enzo Maresca: Man City confirm former Chelsea manager will succeed Pep Guardiola at 10-time Premier League champions Mitch Fretton 29th June, 2026 International round-up: Denmark game abandoned ater Eriksen collapse as Italy and Norway also in action Mitch Fretton 7th June, 2026
