He is the new favourite for the Italian national team coaching job
Pirlo is reportedly currently in pole position, but Guardiola also remains in contention.
In Italy, a favourite for the national team coaching job is emerging.
As "Gazzetta dello Sport" reports, former world champion Andrea Pirlo is currently said to be in pole position. Antonio Conte, Roberto Mancini, and Pep Guardiola also remain in talks.
However, the playing philosophy of the former Milan and Juve star is said to particularly appeal to those in charge. Pirlo (47) currently coaches United FC in the United Arab Emirates. Before that, he worked at Sampdoria, Karagümrük, and Juventus.
President Malago wants Guardiola
Nevertheless, Giovanni Malago, president of the Italian Football Federation FIGC, still wants Guardiola. "No one can deny that it would be something very significant to have Pep Guardiola as Italy's national coach," he explains to "Sky Italia".
However, he also says: "Whether he is the right choice and whether there is the necessary agreement for it, remains to be seen." Financially, it could be difficult to attract the preferred candidate.
Italy is certainly under pressure after missing out on a third consecutive World Cup participation. The European Championship 2028 and the World Cup 2030 are clearly the next goals.
A coaching decision is expected to be made by July 23.
