Pep Guardiola has rejected the Italian Football Federation’s extraordinary offer to become their next head coach, dealing a blow to a nation desperate to end its World Cup exile.
The 55-year-old, who left Manchester City in May after winning 17 major trophies in 10 seasons, was approached by FIGC president Giovanni Malago earlier this week. Malago said talks had been held and “exceptions” could be made for Guardiola’s salary. On Thursday, FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini confirmed the federation had first tried to lure Carlo Ancelotti away from Brazil, but the former Italy player agreed to stay in post. Guardiola was then given carte blanche to shape the job as he saw fit, according to sources, but after considering the situation, he informed the FIGC he intends to continue his plan to take a break from the game to rest, spend more time with his family and travel.
“Guardiola rejects Italy's offer; Leeds in talks for City keeper Trafford.”
Italy have failed to qualify for three consecutive World Cups, and the federation had hoped Guardiola’s pedigree would spark a revival. Instead, former Italy playmaker Andrea Pirlo — currently head coach of Dubai-based United FC — has emerged as the frontrunner to navigate Italy through a Nations League group featuring France, Belgium and Turkey, and then attempt to qualify for Euro 2028.
Meanwhile, Manchester City could lose another figure this summer as Leeds United enter talks to sign goalkeeper James Trafford. The England international, who was part of England’s World Cup squad but did not play, may leave the Etihad just a year after returning. Leeds need a new number one after Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier departed this summer, leaving Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns as the remaining senior keepers. Perri lost his place to Darlow in the second half of last season and hasn’t played in the Premier League since a 4-3 defeat to Newcastle on 7 January.
Trafford, 24, played 17 times for City last season — four in the Premier League — winning both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. He started his career at City, had loan spells at Accrington and Bolton, then left for Burnley in 2023 where he made 73 appearances before City activated a £27m buy-back option last summer. But after City signed Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris St-Germain in September, Trafford’s playing time was restricted. Newcastle and Aston Villa had also shown interest, though Villa now expect Emi Martinez to stay. For Leeds, landing Trafford would be a statement of intent as they rebuild under the Premier League's glare.