FOOTBALL – PEP Guardiola has held talks about becoming Italy’s head coach, the country’s football federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago told local media.
Guardiola left Manchester City this summer after a trophy-laden decade in charge, during which he won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League.
Italy have been searching for a new coach since Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April after the four-time world champions failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.
Speaking to Italian digital sports platform Cronache di Spogliatoio, Malago said yesterday discussions had taken place with Guardiola and suggested financial flexibility could be shown for a candidate of his stature.
“(Financial) Exceptions have been made, exceptions that for example may concern the name that is so overbearing in these hours: Pep Guardiola,” said Malago.
“Exceptions for obvious reasons that I am not here to explain, but it is not certain that this thing will go through.”
Malago’s comments are the first public confirmation that the former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City manager has been approached in connection with the vacant Italy job.
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