Legendary defender, Paolo Maldini, has identified the manager that Italy intended to sign for the national team before engaging in discussions with former Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.
In April, the Azzurri experienced a defeat in a penalty shoot out against Bosnia and Herzegovina during the European play off final (1-1, 4-1 on penalties).
This outcome resulted in the four-time World Cup champions (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006) missing out on qualifying for a third consecutive edition of the tournament.
Two days following the match, then-manager Gennaro Gattuso declared his decision to resign from his position as Italy’s head coach.
Under-21 coach Silvio Baldini promptly assumed the role of caretaker manager for the senior team, and in July, Maldini was appointed as the technical director of the FIGC (Italian Football Federation).
Shortly after Maldini’s appointment, speculation regarding Guardiola potentially taking over the Italian national team grew stronger.
However, during a recent press conference, the 58-year-old disclosed that he initially had discussions with former AC Milan and national teammate, as well as current Brazil manager, Carlo Ancelotti.
Maldini said via BBC, “We cannot hide the fact that we also spoke to Carlo before talking to Pep. Frankly, it seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world.”
In May 2026, Ancelotti extended his contract with the Selecao until 2030. Despite their elimination by Norway in the Round of 16 of the 2026 tournament, the CBF confirmed that the Italian would maintain his position as head coach.
Meanwhile, Italy faces a significant challenge in their negotiations with Guardiola. The former manager of Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona is reportedly requesting a salary of €20 million, which is double the amount that the Italians are prepared to offer (via Gazzetta dello Sport h/t BBC).
‘Best in the world’ – Maldini names manager Italy intended to sign before Guardiola
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