Pep Guardiola declines to coach Italian national soccer team

Yahoo Sports2 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 8:30 AM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Pep Guardiola declines to coach Italian national soccer team
Summary

Pep Guardiola has rejected an offer to become the head coach of the Italian national soccer team, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. Guardiola considered the proposal for several days but ultimately decided he did not feel ready to take on the role. His decision follows a decade-long tenure at Manchester City, where he expressed a desire for personal time and a preference for involvement in daily training. The Italian Football Federation is now expected to pursue other candidates, with Andrea Pirlo emerging as a likely option to replace Roberto Mancini. No timeline has been announced for the appointment of the new head coach as the federation prepares for Euro 2028.

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Key Details
  • Guardiola was offered a long-term project by the FIGC.
  • Andrea Pirlo is now the leading candidate for the head coach role.
  • The Italian federation aims to finalize a new head coach soon.
  • Guardiola's decision came shortly after leaving Manchester City.
Latest Updates
  • 7:33 PMYahoo SportsPep Guardiola turns down Italy job due to family reasons
  • 12:28 PMYahoo SportsPep Guardiola reportedly declines opportunity to take over as Italy national team head coach
  • 11:18 AMYahoo SportsGuardiola turns down Italy job due to family reasons
  • 9:47 AMBBC SportGuardiola turns down Italy manager job
  • 9:20 AMYahoo SportsGuardiola snubs Italy job: ex-Man City boss turns down Azzurri after talks, citing personal reasons
  • 9:10 AMYahoo SportsGuardiola Turns Down Offer to Coach Italy
  • 8:30 AMYahoo Sports❌ La Gazzetta confirms Guardiola said no to the Italy job
  • 8:25 AMYahoo Sports🚨 Pep Guardiola turns down Italy! (Gazzetta dello Sport)
What they're saying
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Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s head coach due to family reasons, the Press Association understands. Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malago confirmed earlier this week that talks had taken place with the former Manchester City manager.

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Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s head coach due to family reasons, the Press Association understands. Italian Football Federation president Giovanni Malago confirmed earlier this week that talks had taken place with the former Manchester City manager.

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Pep Guardiola has turned down the chance to become the next head coach of Italy.The Italian Football Federation held talks with Guardiola over the vacant role as part of an ambitious bid to recruit th...

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