Pep Guardiola emerges as shock Italy coach candidate

According to Sky Sport Italia, Maldini and his advisor Leonardo travelled to Barcelona last weekend to meet Guardiola and discuss the possibility of the former Manchester City manager taking charge of the Azzurri.

The meeting was reportedly held to find out whether Guardiola would be interested in leading Italy into a new era, adding fresh momentum to speculation over who will replace the national team's current leadership.

FIGC president Giovanni Malago has confirmed that the federation is considering several candidates and insisted the search is far from over.

"There are other names as well," Malago told Sky Sport, with former Italy boss Roberto Mancini and World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo already linked with the role.

Malago also stressed that appointing the next coach will depend on more than just a candidate's willingness to accept the job. Any appointment must also fit within the federation's 2026 financial plans.

While no decision has been made, the reported talks with Guardiola have intensified speculation that one of football's most successful managers could be in line for a surprise move to the Italy national team.