Paolo Maldini explains talks with Guardiola and Ancelotti over Italy job

Italy legend Paolo Maldini has confirmed that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has reached out to both Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti to start a new era for the Azzurri.

Despite boosting one of the best leagues in the world, Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. The disappointment saw the dismissal of all coaching staff as well as some key decision makers in the national team setup.

In a bid to revive the fortunes of the national team, Maldini has revealed that Italy are aiming for the very top of the coaching hierarchy.

Recently appointed as the FIGC’s technical director, the AC Milan icon confirmed that discussions have taken place with former Manchester City boss Guardiola and current Brazil manager Ancelotti.

Paolo Maldini speaks with the media during FIGC Management Meet Lega Serie A press conference on July 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa – FIGC/FIGC via Getty Images)

In remarks highlighted by The Guardian, Maldini, speaking at a news conference following a high-level meeting with Serie A clubs, was candid about the federation’s ambitious shortlist. “Honestly, today we can’t give news about what’s happening. You’ve identified one of our targets,” Maldini said when questioned about the links to Guardiola. “We can’t hide that we also talked with Carlo Ancelotti before talking with Pep. Honestly, it seemed right to start with the best in the world, to see their general availability.”

Maldini, alongside FIGC president Giovanni Malago and advisor Leonardo, reportedly spent several days in Barcelona to gauge Guardiola’s interest in the project.

Despite the urgent need to appoint a new manager, Maldini insisted they would not settle for a secondary choice just to fill the seat quickly.

“The best thing would be to announce the new coach this week, but even more to wait for the person we really want,” Maldini explained.

Should the FIGC fail in their quest to land high-profile names like Guardiola or Ancelotti, they can still opt for Roberto Mancini, the man who delivered European Championship glory back in 2021.

Also, Antonio Conte can also be brought back into the fold as he has also experienced what it takes to coach the Italian national team.