Guardiola turns down Italy head coaching job

Pep Guardiola has informed the president of the Italian football federation that he will not become the manager of the team.

A few days ago, the president himself confirmed that they discussed the chance with Pep, who left Man City in the current summer after 10 years at the helm, and that “exceptions” could be made about his payment.

Yesterday, it was also reported that the Italian football federation 1^st approached their ex-footballer Carlo Ancelotti, who is at the moment the head coach of Brazil.

Carlo turned down the chance as he is keen to remain manager of Brazil, and now Guardiola did the same as he wants to take a break from being a manager.

Italy would have given Pep full power to do whatever he likes with the national team, and all his decisions would be final in an attempt to secure one of the best managers in the world after the country failed to qualify for 3 straight World Cups.

More on this topic:

Guardiola leaves Manchester City after 10 years at the helm

However, after Guardiola took some time to consider the opportunity, the Spaniard turned them down and will continue his breakaway from football.

🚨🇮🇹 Pep Guardiola says no to Italian national team head coach job offered by the Federation.

Guardiola considered the proposal this week but wants to dedicate time to his family, recharge and return into football later on. pic.twitter.com/IyavAYYN4J

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 24, 2026