Guardiola rejects Italy head coach offer

Pep Guardiola has turned down the opportunity to become Italy’s next head coach, opting instead to continue his planned break from football after leaving Manchester City this summer.

The decision comes days after Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president Giovanni Malago confirmed talks had been held with the Spaniard and suggested financial exceptions could be made to secure his appointment.

Guardiola chooses break from football

The FIGC had hoped to convince Guardiola to take charge of the national team, offering him a lucrative salary package and significant control over the role.

However, the former Manchester City manager informed the federation that he intends to stick to his original plans of stepping away from the game to rest, spend more time with his family and travel.

Guardiola left City after a trophy-filled 10-year spell, ending one of the most successful managerial eras in the club’s history.