Maldini reveals Italy job talks with Ancelotti: 'We can't deny it' | OneFootball

The Italian national team is going through a serious crisis and is looking for high-profile solutions for the head coach role. Pep Guardiola appears to be Paolo Maldini's big dream as the new technical director of the Italian Football Federation, but compatriot Carlo Ancelotti in charge of Brazil and under contract until 2030, was also on the radar.

"We can't provide any new information about what is happening," the former Italy legend said at the Serie A Assembly in Milan.

"You identified what could be one of our targets, but we can't deny that we also spoke with Ancelotti before talking to Pep Guardiola. It seemed right to begin with those we consider the best in the world, but we need to check their overall availability."

Available since leaving Manchester City, Pep Guardiola held another meeting with Italian FA (FIGC) executives on Wednesday. According to Italian journalist Nicolò Schira, the talks are progressing and the Spaniard would not have asked for the reported annual salary of €20 million (approx £17 million).

Italy have not played at a World Cup since 2014 despite winning the European Championship in that time and are seeking a major rebuilding process. During that period, they missed out on the tournament in the play-offs against Sweden, North Macedonia and Bosnia & Herzegovina.