After three missed World Cups, Italy dreams of Guardiola

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed it has entered talks with Pep Guardiola over taking charge of the national team, replacing Gennaro Gattuso.

Maldini and Leonardo travel to Barcelona

According to Sky Italia, Paolo Maldini, the federation's new technical director, and adviser Leonardo travelled to Barcelona for a three-day meeting with the former Manchester City manager, in an attempt to convince him to take charge of the Azzurri.

After three missed World Cups

The move reflects the federation's ambition to appoint a world-class coach to restore Italy to the top of international football, following another disappointing cycle that has seen the Azzurri miss out on the last three World Cups.

"Why not": Guardiola's cryptic response

Guardiola had publicly stated he wanted to take a break from coaching after a decade at Manchester City. Asked about a possible move to lead Italy, the Spaniard nonetheless replied, without committing: "Why not." A remark that was enough to spark hope among Italian fans, even though no agreement is currently in place.

Other names under consideration

Alongside talks with Guardiola, the FIGC is also weighing up Roberto Mancini, the former Italy coach who won Euro 2020, and Andrea Pirlo. The federation hopes to settle on a name before the start of the Nations League in September.