Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Coaching

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy coaching role to take year off

ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 1:52 PM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Pep Guardiola turns down Italy coaching role to take year off

Summary

Pep Guardiola will take at least one year off from soccer after declining the opportunity to manage Italy. Reports indicate that despite interest from the Italian Football Federation, Guardiola's focus remains on stepping away from coaching for the foreseeable future. His decision comes amid speculation over potential successors for the Italy job. The national team is currently seeking a new coach following recent changes.

Source Links

ESPN

Key Details

•Guardiola intends to take at least one year away from coaching.
•He was approached for the vacant Italy head coaching position.
•The Italian Football Federation is looking for a new manager.
•Guardiola's decision comes during ongoing discussions about team direction.

Latest Updates

2:41 PMESPN — Source: Pep turns down Italy, will take year off

What they're saying

"
Pep Guardiola's intention remains to take "at least one year" out of the game despite being approached to take over the vacant Italy coaching job, a source told ESPN.
— ESPNby Sam Marsden

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