Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola has appeared rather nonchalant about his Manchester City future over the past few weeks. The Spaniard is now being considered for a demanding role away from England.
The Citizens have won silverware already this season, beating Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final. They are out of the Champions League but are very much in the running to win the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Guardiola can still end his time at Manchester City with as many as 15 trophies. He has witnessed transitions at the club, with the ongoing period probably proving to be the biggest challenge.
As doubts mount about his long-term future, and others get ready to take his job, the Italian national team sees him as an option.
Guardiola emerging as suggestion
Gazzetta dello Sport today report about the uncertainty around the Azzurri manager’s position. Rino Gattuso is expected to depart after the disaster in Bosnia and options are being lined up over replacements.
Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte are currently the biggest options, with both having held the position in the past.
At the same time, the Manchester City boss is also seen as a dream scenario. This is because Italy are looking for a manager who transforms how the game is played, laying down a foundation for a new playing style.
Guardiola is someone who can do that. The newspaper believe he will leave the Etihad in the summer and this can hand Italy a big chance at signing him.
The country’s football association – FIGC, can seek help from sponsors to pay the Manchester City manager’s salary.
Maybe a bridge too far
The Manchester City manager has played in Italy but managing there is a different ball-game. Carlo Ancelotti has rejected the chance twice, with the Azzurri manager role riddled with politics and complex problems.
Italy’s problems lie deeper and a manager simply can’t lay down the foundation to bring about that change.
Besides, the idea is simply a suggestion. Italy have never appointed non-Italy born managers in the past and bringing in Guardiola would require putting aside a lot of ego.
The Spaniard probably still has a club job in him and managing a national team probably comes too early.
🇭🇷 Joško Gvardiol | Positive Manchester City injury news – Return date given, training step up on wayhttps://t.co/larjlHye71 #mcfc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) April 2, 2026