Italy Backs Pep Guardiola's 'Exceptions'—Yet It Still Might Fall Short

Even with the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) signaling a readiness to spend big, Pep Guardiola is reportedly inclined to turn down the opportunity to lead the national side.

"[Financial] exceptions have been made, exceptions that, for example, may concern the name that's so dominant at the moment: Pep Guardiola," FIGC president Giovanni Malagò told Cronache di spogliatoio. "Exceptions for obvious reasons that I won't go into here."

The FIGC has publicly admitted to budget constraints but, according to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, had been willing to put $11.4 million (€10 million) per season on the table. However, it's suggested the Spaniard is seeking twice that figure.

Guardiola, who departed the Etihad this past summer, is also said to have made a commitment to spend quality time with his family, making it unlikely he'll accept any offer that doesn't meet his demands.

The Highest Paid Managers in International Soccer

Guardiola: I Don't Miss Management

Guardiola left his role at Manchester City at the conclusion of last season, citing mental exhaustion as his main reason for stepping away.

In a recent sit-down interview, the 55-year-old made clear he was in no hurry to return to the touchline.

"Mentally, I don't miss a single thing," he emphasized. "I began my coaching career at 37, and my whole life has been tied to football. Now, I want to explore life, to find happiness in things completely unrelated to the game.

"I love what I do, but there comes a point where you feel the need to step back. Perhaps one day I'll wake up and think, 'Right, I'm ready to manage again.' But that urge has to come naturally from within, and right now, I simply don't feel it."

That outlook bears a striking resemblance to that of his greatest career rival, Jürgen Klopp. After stepping away in 2024, many were caught off guard when he returned to work relatively quickly in a role as Red Bull's global head of soccer, despite previously stating he needed time off.

Following two years out of management, Klopp is now on the verge of a comeback, having reportedly agreed to take the reins of the German national team after its embarrassing World Cup exit.

Enable functional cookies to see this feature.

Guardiola, who guided City to six Premier League championships, has long expressed an ambition to try his hand at international management, and the prospect of renewing his rivalry with Klopp at the helm of two of the world's most prominent national teams holds undeniable appeal.

Nevertheless, unless Italy significantly improves its offer, fans eagerly anticipating a revival of Guardiola vs. Klopp may be left waiting a while longer.