Pep Guardiola has turned down the chance to become Italy’s next national team head coach, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, opting instead to prioritise family time after a decade managing Manchester City.
“Guardiola said no to Italy due to a personal decision; it’s not about a financial proposal,” Romano said on X, adding that Guardiola will return to coaching only “when he feels a new project is the best one possible.”
However, other reports suggest finances also played a role: Guardiola had reportedly sought a salary near €20 million annually, while FIGC’s ceiling, even after publicly promising “exceptions” for a coach of his stature, was closer to €10 million.
FIGC president Giovanni Malagò, elected in June following Gabriele Gravina’s resignation, had personally confirmed talks with Guardiola, with technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo flying to Barcelona to make their pitch. Italy, still searching for a permanent successor after missing a third straight World Cup, must now return to its list of alternative candidates.
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