Overview
- FIGC representatives including Paolo Maldini and Leonardo traveled to Barcelona for an initial, media-reported meeting with Pep Guardiola that sources describe as exploratory rather than a hiring agreement.
- Maldini has been named FIGC director of selections and Leonardo a consultant, and both have been tasked with overhauling the national setup after three straight World Cup absences.
- Guardiola is available after leaving Manchester City and has previously signaled interest in coaching a national team, making him a top but uncommitted candidate for the Azzurra job.
- The federation is keeping other options open, with Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo reported as alternative candidates under active consideration.
- A final appointment would shape Italy’s next cycle and public confidence in the national program, so the next steps to watch are further FIGC talks, candidate replies, and any formal announcement of a hire.