Maldini discusses Guardiola's interest in Italy head coach role
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 9:54 AM
Last updated Aug 11, 2026
Paolo Maldini revealed that Pep Guardiola showed significant interest in becoming head coach of the Italy national team. During an interview, Maldini explained that Guardiola had begun analyzing formations and youth teams but ultimately decided against the role due to exhaustion after a decade in the Premier League. Maldini emphasized that financial concerns were not a factor, stating that Guardiola was willing to accept a salary lower than his predecessor. Instead, Guardiola wished for rest following back surgery and a demanding career. Following these developments, the FIGC appointed Andrea Pirlo as head coach.
- •Maldini claims Guardiola was close to accepting the Italy head coach position.
- •Financial demands were not a factor in Guardiola's decision.
- •Guardiola had health concerns following back surgery.
- •Italy opted for Andrea Pirlo as head coach after Guardiola declined.
- 10:38 AMESPN Soccer — Maldini: Pep came 'close' to Italy job, had lineups
- 11:25 AMYahoo Sports — Maldini claims Guardiola was already drafting formations for Italy: ‘Money wasn’t an issue’
"Paolo Maldini says that Pep Guardiola was so intrigued about the opportunity of taking over as head coach of the Italy national team that he was already drafting potential formations and analysing the...
"Pep Guardiola was so close to becoming Italy head coach that he began scribbling potential lineups on paper during talks over the job, Paolo Maldini has revealed.
Sources
External links- ESPN SoccerAug 11, 2026, 10:38 AMMaldini: Pep came 'close' to Italy job, had lineups
Pep Guardiola was so close to becoming Italy head coach that he began scribbling potential lineups on paper during talks over the job, Paolo Maldini has revealed.
- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 11:25 AMMaldini claims Guardiola was already drafting formations for Italy: ‘Money wasn’t an issue’
Paolo Maldini says that Pep Guardiola was so intrigued about the opportunity of taking over as head coach of the Italy national team that he was already drafting potential formations and analysing the...
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