Italy approaches Ancelotti and Guardiola for coach role, Malago confirms financial exceptions

Italy's technical director Paolo Maldini revealed that the federation approached Carlo Ancelotti before holding discussions with Pep Guardiola for the vacant national team coaching position, while FIGC President Giovanni Malago confirmed financial exceptions would be made to secure Guardiola. Source: cna, aljazeera

Coach search history

Italy has been without a coach since Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April after the team failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. Maldini stated, "We cannot hide the fact that we also spoke to Carlo Ancelotti before talking to Pep. Frankly, it seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world." Source: cna However, Ancelotti will remain as Brazil's coach despite their World Cup exit. Source: cna

Guardiola's demands and family ties

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Guardiola is seeking up to €20 million per year, which is double the FIGC's initial offer. Source: cna Malago acknowledged that financial "exceptions" would be made for Guardiola, but said the appointment is not certain. "It was important to open a dialogue and keep it alive," he added. Source: aljazeera Guardiola's desire to spend more time with his family in Barcelona is also complicating talks. Source: cna

Other candidates

Other potential choices include Antonio Conte, Andrea Pirlo, and Roberto Mancini, who led Italy to the Euro 2020 title. Source: cna, aljazeera Maldini's adviser Leonardo emphasized the need for a long-term technical project. The federation hopes to appoint a coach by the end of the week.