Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s next head coach, choosing instead to take a break from football and spend more time with his family.
The decision was not influenced by financial considerations. Instead, the 55-year-old Spaniard opted to step away from management for personal reasons after holding talks with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed the decision in a post on X, writing: “Pep Guardiola said no to Italy due to a personal decision; it’s not about a financial proposal. Guardiola will be back coaching at the right time and when he feels a new project is the best one possible; he is now dedicating time to family.”
Italy had identified Guardiola as its preferred candidate to lead the national team into a new era following the vacancy in the role. FIGC president Giovanni Malagò later confirmed that discussions had taken place over the possibility of appointing the former Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester City manager.
Guardiola left Manchester City at the end of the 2025–26 season after a decade in charge. During his time at the club, he won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups and guided City to their first UEFA Champions League crown in 2023. Earlier in his managerial career, he enjoyed remarkable success with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, winning multiple domestic league titles and two Champions League trophies with the Spanish club.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in football history, Guardiola remains one of the most sought-after coaches in the game. Despite rejecting Italy's approach, he is expected to return to management when he believes the right project emerges.
For now, however, Guardiola is prioritising family life before deciding on the next chapter of his coaching career.
