Italy’s technical director Paolo Maldini has confirmed that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) held talks with both Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola over the national team coaching vacancy.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Maldini revealed that Ancelotti, currently in charge of Brazil, was the first man approached. “We cannot hide the fact that we also spoke to Carlo before talking to Pep,” he said. “Frankly, it seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world.”
Maldini, who earned 126 caps for Italy during his playing career, said the FIGC would ideally want a new coach in place by the end of the week, though he stressed that finding the right candidate takes priority. When pressed for further details, he remained guarded. “We honestly cannot provide any updates on what is happening at the moment,” he added.
Guardiola, 55, won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League during his time in England. The Spaniard is among those understood to have spoken with the federation about the role.
Ancelotti and Guardiola are not the only names in the frame. Former Italy managers Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, along with ex-Azzurri midfielder Andrea Pirlo, have also been linked with the position.
Image credit: BBC Sport / BBC Sport
