Pep Guardiola to leave Man City for national team? Report links ex-Barcelona boss to former world champions

Pep Guardiola is currently a man on a mission with Manchester City FC as they chase the Premier League title this season. The franchise failed to secure the silverware last season when Liverpool emerged victorious.

After Arsenal fumbled their lead, Guardiola and Manchester City have moved to the top of the table with 70 points. They are currently level with the Gunners and require wins to remain ahead of the competition.

But speculation has emerged about Guardiola’s future at Man City, with reports suggesting he could leave the club to take charge of a national team.

Guardiola may consider Italy football role

Guardiola is reportedly 'open' to becoming the new head coach of the Italian national football team in the summer. Despite having a year left on his deal with Manchester City, La Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that the Spanish manager would accept the offer to join the national side.

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The reports added that the Italian Football Federation will begin its hunt for a new head coach after the election of a new FIGC president.

Notably, Guardiola has been vocal about managing an international side before retiring from coaching. Additionally, his strong ties to Italy suggest that he may be open to considering an offer if the FIGC were to reach out.

Italy technical coach keen to work with Guardiola

The Italian football team is coming off a tough phase after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The Azzurri lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties, leading to the sacking of head coach Gennaru Gattuso.

With Italy in dire need of a revamp, bringing someone such as Guardiola would help them get back to the top.

Leonardo Bonucci, Italy's technical coach, also expressed his eagerness to work with Guardiola and said he would be 'the right man for the job' while stressing the need for a 'radical change'.

If Guardiola leaves Man City, former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca would become the leading candidate to replace him, as initial talks have reportedly taken place between both parties.