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Bringing Pep Guardiola to lead the Italy national team is being described as requiring a ‘miracle’, despite recent face-to-face discussions between Paolo Maldini, Leonardo, and the former Manchester City manager.

The Italian Football Federation is making a strong push to convince Guardiola to take charge of the national side. Technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo reportedly travelled to Barcelona for direct discussions with the Spanish tactician. However, Guardiola, who recently stepped down from his role at Manchester City, is said to be planning a break from football — a major obstacle for Italy’s hopes of securing his services.

Face-to-face meeting held in Barcelona

Guardiola has emerged as Italy’s primary choice for the vacant managerial role. As per a report from Football Italia, Maldini and Leonardo met the coach in Barcelona over the weekend in an attempt to persuade him. The federation is believed to be dreaming of appointing the highly decorated coach following his successful decade with Manchester City.

A photograph showing Maldini and Leonardo flying back to Italy after the meeting has circulated online, sparking speculation among fans. Despite this direct and ambitious approach, convincing Guardiola to immediately return to management appears almost impossible, as he has openly stated his intention to take a temporary break from coaching duties.

Fabrizio Romano shares Guardiola’s position

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has provided insight into the situation, revealing that Italy’s chances of persuading Guardiola are slim. He confirmed that the manager is fully focused on taking a rest before considering his next project. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano remarked: “Those close to Guardiola indicate that his plan is to spend time with his family and not jump straight back into management.”

Romano also posted the image of Maldini and Leonardo returning from their trip, reiterating the difficulty Italy face in changing Guardiola’s stance. He summed up the situation by warning: “If they manage to convince him, it would be a miracle and a masterpiece, because the chances are very low.”

Potential alternatives for the Italy job

Given the unlikelihood of Guardiola’s appointment, the Italian federation has already begun exploring other managerial options. Reports suggest that Andrea Pirlo and Roberto Mancini are being considered as leading alternatives should Guardiola officially decline. Both candidates possess substantial experience in Italian football and a deep understanding of the national team’s expectations. Mancini, who guided Italy to Euro 2020 triumph, and Pirlo, who commands immense respect as both a player and coach, are seen as realistic successors should the Guardiola pursuit fail.

What lies ahead for Italy

With international fixtures approaching, Italy must finalise their managerial appointment soon. Maldini and Leonardo are expected to await a definitive answer from Guardiola this week before turning their focus entirely towards Pirlo or Mancini. Meanwhile, Guardiola is anticipated to continue his planned sabbatical, spending time with his family and staying away from further managerial commitments for the foreseeable future.