Italy confirm talks to appoint Pep Guardiola as national team manager
The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed holding talks with Pep Guardiola regarding their vacant national team manager position, despite acknowledging major financial hurdles.
The 55-year-old is currently without a club after ending a highly successful stint in English football, stepping down as Manchester City boss in May.
Despite boasting an extraordinary record in the domestic game, the Catalan tactician has never managed at the international level.
Financial obstacles and Barcelona summit
New technical director Paolo Maldini and special advisor Leonardo reportedly travelled to Barcelona this weekend to meet with the former Bayern Munich head coach.
The Azzurri are desperately seeking a transformational figure after failing to qualify for a third successive World Cup tournament this summer.
FIGC president Giovanni Malago confirmed the ambitious pursuit but admitted the Spanish manager’s historic wage demands present a significant complication.
“There are certain financial aspects to be considered, and it’s an understatement to say we’d have to grit our teeth for this.” Giovanni Malago
“Some exceptions have been made, for example exceptions that regard the name making such waves at the moment: Pep Guardiola.”
Bridging a substantial wage gap
The highly decorated coach reportedly earned a staggering £20m per year during his trophy-laden tenure at Etihad Stadium.
In stark contrast, Gennaro Gattuso earned a modest £680,000 salary before his departure following Italy’s recent World Cup play-off failure.
“I don’t need to sit here and explain the obvious reasons why he’d be an exception, but that is also no guarantee that this will go through.” Giovanni Malago
When questioned about other potential candidates, Malago dismissed the notion that Antonio Conte had been overlooked out of disrespect.
The FIGC president also confirmed that former Italy manager Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo remain within the specific category of profiles being considered for the role.