Secret Barcelona talks hint at Pep Guardiola's Italy job
An exclusive report from Italian Sky Sport Paolo Maldini and Leonardo travelled to Barcelona last weekend to sit down with Spanish manager Pep Guardiola, sparking speculation about a possible appointment as the new head coach of Italy’s national team.
Sky Sport confirmed the meeting as a concrete effort to secure Guardiola for the role.
Maldini and Leonardo, both former Italian internationals, engaged directly with Guardiola in the Catalan city, indicating a high‑level initiative.
Guardiola, renowned for his success in club football, remains a Spanish coach, making the prospect a cross‑national appointment.
The discussions underscore Italy’s willingness to look beyond domestic candidates in its search for a new national team leader.