Italy approaches Carlo Ancelotti

Italy is still searching for a new head coach. Pep Guardiola was long considered a strong candidate. According to reports, however, the Catalan is asking for a substantial fee >>>

"Ideally, we would appoint a coach within a week, but it's even more important to wait for the person we truly want," explained Italy's new Technical Director Paolo Maldini to media representatives.

Talks with Ancelotti

There is time pressure in the search for a head coach. Regarding Guardiola, there is "no news yet."

Now, the Italians are surprising with another candidate. "We also spoke with Ancelotti," Maldini said. The Italian is actually under contract with Brazil until 2030, having been eliminated in the round of 16 at the World Cup with the South Americans by Norway.

"It seemed right to start with the best in the world, but their availability still needs to be clarified," Maldini said.

It is considered extremely unlikely that Ancelotti would leave Brazil for his home country in the middle of his contract. As "ge.globo" reports, Ancelotti has rejected Italy's interest. Contact was reportedly made about two weeks ago.

Missed World Cup Three Times in a Row

Italy recently missed the World Cup three times in a row, having last reached the knockout phase of the most important tournament in world football over 20 years ago.

Back then, they became World Champions in Germany in 2006.