Italy coach: Azzurri approached Carlo Ancelotti before Pep
The Italian Football Federation approached Carlo Ancelotti for the position of national team coach before talking to Pep Guardiola, amid the search for a replacement for Gennaro Gattuso.
Italy coach: Azzurri approached Carlo Ancelotti before Pep
According to Bbc.
Why this is important
The Italian team's approach to Carlo Ancelotti for the position of national coach shows the determination of the Italian Football Federation in finding a coach with experience and achievements. Ancelotti, with extensive experience at top European clubs, is considered one of the top choices, especially after Gennaro Gattuso resigned due to failure to qualify for the World Cup.
Main point
- Italy coach: Azzurri approached Carlo Ancelotti before Pep.
- The Italian Football Federation approached Carlo Ancelotti for the position of national team coach before talking to Pep Guardiola, in the context of searching for a replacement for Gennaro Gattuso.
- Italy manager's job: Azzurri approaches Carlo Ancelotti before Pep Guardiola, says Paolo Maldini - BBC Sport.
The Italian team approached Carlo Ancelotti to become head coach of the national team before opening negotiations with Pep Guardiola. The Azzurri have been without a coach since Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April after failing to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.
This week, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) President Giovanni Malago said there had been discussions with Guardiola, who left Manchester City this summer after 10 years, and "may consider" exceptions to his salary. However, on Thursday, FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini said Italy had approached former player Ancelotti before speaking to Pep. "We cannot hide that we also spoke with Carlo before discussing with Pep," Maldini said at a press conference. "Honestly, it seems logical to start with the people we consider the best in the world."
Ancelotti, a former teammate of Maldini both with Italy and AC Milan, took over as coach of the Brazilian team in 2025 and extended his contract in May until the 2030 World Cup. Although the team was eliminated in the round of 16 of the World Cup by Norway, the Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed that the 67-year-old coach will continue to lead the five-time world champions.
Maldini, a former defender with 126 caps for Italy, said FIGC is expected to appoint a coach this weekend but the priority is to find the right person. Italian sources say Guardiola is asking for an annual salary of 20 million euros (£17 million), double what Italy is offering. "We honestly cannot provide any updates on what's going on at this time," Maldini said when asked about this report.
Guardiola, 55, led Manchester City to six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League during a successful decade in England. Former Italy coaches such as Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, as well as former Azzurri midfielder Andrea Pirlo, have also been linked with the position.
What happens next
FIGC is expected to soon announce a decision on the appointment of a new coach, with the priority being to find the most suitable person for the team. Meanwhile, Ancelotti is still leading the Brazilian team and has extended his contract until the 2030 World Cup, which may affect his ability to return to lead the Italian team in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did the Italian coach approach first?
The Italian team approached Carlo Ancelotti before opening negotiations with Pep Guardiola.
Who confirmed the information about the approach to Ancelotti?
Paolo Maldini, FIGC Technical Director, has confirmed that Italy spoke with Carlo Ancelotti before discussing with Pep Guardiola.
Why is Italy looking for a coach at this time?
Italy has been without a coach since Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April after failing to qualify for the World Cup.
Are there any changes in Italy's coach search?
Italy has prioritized finding a suitable coach and is expected to appoint a coach this weekend.
What salary is Pep Guardiola asking for?
Guardiola is asking for an annual salary of 20 million euros, double what Italy is offering.
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