Pep Guardiola's coaching future has become one of football's hottest talking points after reports emerged linking the legendary manager with the vacant Italy national team job.

Only a few months after ending his remarkable decade-long spell at Manchester City, Guardiola is reportedly being considered as the man to revive one of international football's biggest sleeping giants. At the same time, some pundits believe England should also make a move if the Spaniard decides to return to the dugout.


With both countries entering important phases in their footballing history, Guardiola's next decision could shape the international game for years to come.


Italy Hold Talks with Pep Guardiola

According to reports from Sky Sport Italia, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has already opened discussions with Guardiola about becoming the new head coach of the Azzurri.

The report claims that newly appointed FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini, alongside advisor Leonardo, travelled to Barcelona, where they spent several days discussing the project with the former Barcelona and Manchester City manager.


While negotiations remain at an early stage, Guardiola is believed to be one of the federation's preferred candidates. Former Italy manager Roberto Mancini and ex-AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo have also been linked with the role.

If appointed, Guardiola would become only the second foreign coach to manage Italy and the first non-Italian to lead the national team since the 1960s.


Guardiola Already Knows Italian Football

Although Guardiola has never coached in Italy, he is no stranger to the country.

The 55-year-old spent two seasons playing in Serie A, representing Brescia across two spells and AS Roma between 2001 and 2003.


During his time in Italy, Guardiola became fluent in the language, a factor that could make any transition into the national team setup much smoother. His previous experience living and playing in the country is seen as a major advantage should he decide to accept the challenge.


Italy Need a Fresh Start

The Italy national team remains one of football's most successful nations, boasting four FIFA World Cup titles and two European Championship trophies. However, recent years have been far less impressive.

Despite defeating England to win Euro 2020 (played in 2021), the Azzurri have now failed to qualify for three consecutive FIFA World Cups.


Their latest disappointment came after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the European playoffs, missing out on the 2026 World Cup in North America.

The defeat led to the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, leaving the FIGC searching for a coach capable of restoring Italy's status among world football's elite.


Could England Also Make a Move?

While Italy appears to be leading the race, Guardiola's availability has also reignited discussion about the England national team.

England impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by finishing third—their best result at a men's major tournament since lifting the World Cup in 1966.


However, head coach Thomas Tuchel came under heavy criticism after England surrendered a 1-0 lead to lose 2-1 against Argentina in the semi-finals.

Many questioned Tuchel's tactical changes during the second half, although the Football Association has continued to back the German coach.

Tuchel only signed a contract extension earlier this year after taking charge in January 2025.


Wayne Rooney Wants Guardiola

Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes Guardiola would be the ideal candidate if the Football Association ever decided to make a coaching change. Speaking after England's World Cup exit, Rooney suggested there are very few managers capable of improving on Tuchel.

He argued that Guardiola would be the obvious choice should he become available, adding that there are currently no other coaches operating at the same level.

Despite the speculation, the FA remains committed to Tuchel, making an immediate move unlikely.


A Legendary Career Across Europe

Few managers in football history can match Guardiola's remarkable achievements.

His coaching career began at Barcelona, where he transformed one of football's greatest generations into an unstoppable force.


During his time at Camp Nou, Guardiola won:

  • Three La Liga titles
  • Two UEFA Champions League trophies
  • Multiple domestic cups
  • Two UEFA Super Cups
  • Two FIFA Club World Cups

He then moved to Bayern Munich, where he continued his dominance by winning three consecutive Bundesliga titles, two German Cups, a UEFA Super Cup and another FIFA Club World Cup.


Manchester City Era Ends in Glory

Guardiola's greatest managerial chapter arguably came at Manchester City.

Across ten unforgettable seasons, he guided the club to:

  • Six Premier League titles
  • Three FA Cups
  • Five League Cups
  • Three Community Shields
  • One UEFA Champions League
  • One UEFA Super Cup
  • One FIFA Club World Cup

In total, Guardiola collected 20 major trophies at the Etihad Stadium, cementing his legacy as one of the Premier League's greatest-ever managers.


Following City's final match of the 2025/26 campaign, Guardiola emotionally confirmed his departure. He admitted he was mentally and physically exhausted after spending a decade competing for every available trophy.

Despite the emotional farewell, Guardiola insisted it was the right moment to step away from club football.


Could International Football Be the Perfect Return?

Unlike club management, international football offers longer breaks between matches and significantly less day-to-day pressure. That could make it the ideal environment for Guardiola after admitting he needed time away from the relentless demands of club football.

If he accepts Italy's offer, his first objective would be to guide the Azzurri to UEFA Euro 2028, which will be hosted by the United Kingdom and Ireland.


His competitive debut could arrive quickly, with Italy scheduled to face Belgium in the UEFA Nations League before difficult fixtures against Turkey and France later in the year.


What Happens Next?

For now, Guardiola has made no public decision regarding his future.

Italy appears determined to convince one of football's greatest tacticians to take charge, while England continue to monitor developments from a distance despite publicly backing Thomas Tuchel.


Whether Guardiola chooses the Italy national team, waits for another opportunity, or extends his break from football, one thing is certain, his return to management will be one of the biggest stories in world football.