Guardiola declines Italy national team coaching position, Pirlo set to take over

Pep Guardiola has declined the opportunity to become the head coach of the Italy national soccer team, as confirmed by Sky in Italy. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) engaged Guardiola in talks for three days, seeking to persuade him to succeed Gennaro Gattuso. Gattuso's departure followed Italy's failure to qualify for their third consecutive World Cup. Guardiola's decision was reportedly influenced by personal reasons, leading the FIGC to finalize arrangements with Andrea Pirlo as Gattuso's replacement. Pirlo is expected to finalize his move after terminating his contract with United FC in Dubai.