Maldini: Italy approached Ancelotti before Guardiola for coach role
Legendary defender Paolo Maldini revealed on July 24 2026 that Italy first approached Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti before opening talks with former Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola for the vacant Azzurri head‑coach role. Maldini told the BBC that after Italy’s Euro 2028 playoff loss to Bosnia‑Herzegovina on penalties (1‑1 draw, 4‑1 loss), then‑manager Gennaro Gattuso resigned two days later, prompting Under‑21 coach Silvio Baldini to take over as caretaker. Maldini was appointed FIGC technical director in July and said the federation began talks with Ancelotti, whom he and Maldini considered among the best in the world. Ancelotti later renewed his contract with Brazil through 2030 despite a Round‑of‑16 exit at the 2026 tournament. Meanwhile, Guardiola is demanding a €20 million annual salary, double what Italy is prepared to offer. The stalemate highlights the financial hurdles top national teams face when pursuing elite coaches and leaves Italy’s search for a new manager unresolved as the next international window approaches.