Italy: Pep Guardiola's surprising decision

In Italy, the saga surrounding the next national team coach continues to stir the corridors of the FIGC.

According to information from Corriere della Sera, Pep Guardiola has definitively turned down the offer made by Paolo Maldini and Leonardo, opting instead to step back and spend more time with his family. The Catalan tactician also reportedly declined an invitation to Gianluigi Donnarumma's wedding—a high-profile event expected to gather several Italian football icons, all while discussions about the next Azzurri manager remain ongoing.

Still according to the Italian daily, this development has sparked the anger of Roberto Mancini, who reportedly feels betrayed by the federation's change of direction. While the former coach believed he might reclaim his post, Paolo Maldini and Leonardo are now strongly advocating for Andrea Pirlo, whose profile aligns more closely with their vision for the sporting project, as an agreement between the parties seems imminent.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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