Guardiola rejects Italy job: LIVE reactions, comments & latest updates | OneFootball

Lorenzo Bettoni and Richard Hall return with the latest edition of the Football Italia LIVE Show, and the focus is on Pep Guardiola rejecting the Italy job.

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As widely anticipated, Pep Guardiola has rejected the opportunity to become Italy’s next head coach, ending days of speculation linking the ex-Manchester City boss with the Azzurri bench.

Football Italia live show: what’s next for Italy after Guardiola rejection?

The decision represents a major setback for Italian football, with many supporters hoping Guardiola’s arrival could usher in a new era following recent disappointments on the international stage.

Attention now turns to Paolo Maldini, who faces the crucial task of identifying the right man to lead the national team into the next World Cup cycle. While several names have already been discussed behind the scenes, one candidate currently stands above the rest.

EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Paolo Maldini of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Empoli FC and AC MIlan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 1, 2022 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Andrea Pirlo has emerged as the leading contender for the role. The former Italy midfielder enjoyed a glittering playing career with the Azzurri and has already gained managerial experience with Juventus and Sampdoria.

During today’s LIVE Show, Lorenzo Bettoni and Richard Hall will analyse Guardiola’s decision, discuss what it means for the future of the national team, and debate whether Pirlo is the right appointment—or whether a surprise candidate could ultimately land one of the most prestigious jobs in world football.

With the Azzurri at a crossroads, the search for their next coach has officially entered a decisive phase.

The show begins at 13:30 CET [12:30 GMT]