Football NewsBBC SportUnverified source· 24 Jul 2026
Guardiola says no to Italy job
Pep Guardiola rejects Italy's offer to become their next head coach.


Guardiola
coach
Who
Pep Guardiola
What
Turned down Italy manager job
When
This week
Why
Wants a break from football
What happened. Pep Guardiola has turned down the chance to coach the Italian national team, preferring to take a break from the game.
- FIGC president Malago confirmed talks with Guardiola.
- Guardiola left Manchester City this summer.
- Andrea Pirlo is now frontrunner for the role.
Italy now look to Andrea Pirlo to lead them through Nations League and Euro 2028 qualifying.
Read the full story at BBC Sport →More to read

Sky Sports
Guardiola rejects chance to become Italy head coach

Football Italia
Where do Italy turn next after missing out on Guardiola?

Mirror Football
Pep Guardiola’s telling reasons for rejecting Italy job as England learn stance

The Guardian
Maldini confirms crisis-hit Italy have held talks with Guardiola and Ancelotti

