League: Serie A Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Scores & Results

Guardiola denies Italy coaching position amid national team changes

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 11:40 AM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Guardiola denies Italy coaching position amid national team changes

Summary

Pep Guardiola has officially rejected the offer to become Italy's next head coach, concluding recent speculation. This decision is viewed as a significant setback for Italian football, as many hoped his leadership would signal a revival after recent international struggles. Following this development, Paolo Maldini is tasked with finding a suitable replacement for the national team, with former Italy midfielder Andrea Pirlo emerging as a leading candidate. The search for a new head coach has entered a critical phase as the Azzurri prepare for the upcoming World Cup cycle.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Guardiola declines the Italy national team coaching role
•His rejection follows days of speculation about his interest
•Paolo Maldini must identify a replacement for the national team
•Andrea Pirlo is considered a frontrunner for the position
•The Azzurri are in a crucial phase as they prepare for the World Cup

Latest Updates

11:40 AMYahoo Sports — Guardiola rejects Italy job: LIVE reactions, comments & latest updates

What they're saying

"
Lorenzo Bettoni and Richard Hall return with the latest edition of the Football Italia LIVE Show, and the focus is on Pep Guardiola rejecting the Italy job.Click here to subscribe to the official Foot...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Juventus AC Milan Serie A Soccer