Senior FIGC officials Paolo Maldini and his advisor Leonardo recently held extensive talks with Guardiola in Barcelona, presenting a long-term vision for Italian football that goes beyond managing the senior national side and includes an overhaul of the entire national team structure.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The federation is willing to make a significant financial exception to secure Guardiola\u2019s services despite its current budget constraints. Italian FA president Giovanni Malago acknowledged the financial challenges but hinted that special provisions could be made for a high-profile appointment.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIn the short to medium term, saying we need to tighten our belts is an understatement. However, exceptions have been made, which may concern the name that is so dominant these days,\u201d Malago told Sky Sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The proposal reportedly positions Guardiola as the central figure in an ambitious \u201cAzzurro project\u201d aimed at rebuilding Italian football from the grassroots to the senior team. The Spaniard is understood to have listened carefully to the presentation and is now considering his options.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIn the short to medium term, saying we need to tighten our belts is an understatement. However, exceptions have been made, which may concern the name that is so dominant these days,\u201d Malago told Sky Sports.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Guardiola became a free agent earlier this year after ending his 10-year spell with Manchester City. During his tenure, he won 20 major trophies, guided City to six Premier League titles, delivered a historic Treble in the 2022-23 season, oversaw the club\u2019s record 100-point league campaign in 2017-18, and made them the first English top-flight side to win four consecutive league titles. He departed with a remarkable win percentage of 70.8.<\/p>\r\n\r\n