Guardiola Tops Fan Polls as Italy’s Most Wanted Coach; Maldini’s Approval Soars

FolioPitch.com – 22 July 2026 | In a recent survey conducted by La Gazzetta dello Sport, it has been revealed that Guardiola is Italy s most popular head coach option as Maldini approval rating soars, with the former Manchester City boss leading the race to become the next head coach of the Italian national team. The poll, which measured popular sentiment among Italian football supporters, found that 34% of respondents selected Pep Guardiola as their first-choice candidate for the vacant role. Among regular watchers of the sport, that figure rose to 40%, underscoring the Catalan tactician’s widespread appeal.

The vacancy arose after Gennaro Gattuso departed the position earlier this year, and following the appointment of Giovanni Malagò as FIGC president and Paolo Maldini as technical director. Maldini, a legendary figure in Italian football, has been tasked with finding the right man to lead the Azzurri. His own approval rating has soared: 61% of supporters view his appointment positively, with only 7% expressing negativity. This strong backing gives Maldini significant leeway in his search.

While Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini had long been considered the frontrunners, the emergence of Guardiola as the fans’ favourite has shifted the narrative. The poll highlights that Guardiola is Italy s most popular head coach option as Maldini approval rating soars, but Conte remains the top Italian candidate with 32% of votes when Guardiola is excluded. Mancini garnered 25%, and Andrea Pirlo 18%. The remaining 25% were either unsure or preferred another Italian.

Maldini, assisted by former Milan teammate Leonardo, has already held talks with Guardiola, who recently left Manchester City. The discussions have fueled speculation that the 54-year-old could be persuaded to take on his first international role. Guardiola’s pedigree—winning multiple league titles and Champions Leagues at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City—makes him an attractive prospect. However, his Catalan roots and lack of prior connection to Italian football have not dampened enthusiasm among fans.

Interestingly, the poll also reveals that Guardiola is Italy s most popular head coach option as Maldini approval rating soars, even though Conte and Mancini have both previously managed the national team. Conte led Italy to a quarterfinal finish at Euro 2016 before leaving for Chelsea, while Mancini guided the Azzurri to victory at Euro 2020. Yet their recent club stints have been mixed, with Conte’s spiky personality and Mancini’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup perhaps denting their popularity.

Andrea Pirlo, another former Italy star, is seen as a wildcard. He has limited senior coaching experience, having managed Juventus and Turkish side Karagümrük, but his intelligence and calm demeanor appeal to a segment of fans. The poll shows Pirlo tied with Mancini at 17% overall, but behind Conte among Italian candidates.

The appointment of Maldini has been widely praised. The former AC Milan captain brings unparalleled prestige and a reputation for integrity. His positive approval rating—61%—reflects optimism that he will restore glory to Italian football. With Leonardo by his side, Maldini is expected to make a decision by the summer, with a view to preparing for the upcoming Nations League and World Cup qualifiers.

As the search continues, one thing is clear: Guardiola is Italy s most popular head coach option as Maldini approval rating soars. Whether the footballing genius can be lured away from club management remains to be seen, but the Italian public has made their preference known. For now, Maldini holds the cards, and his popularity gives him the freedom to pursue any candidate he deems fit.

In conclusion, the combination of Guardiola’s widespread support and Maldini’s high approval ratings creates a unique moment for Italian football. The decision on the next head coach will be closely watched, but the fans have already spoken. Guardiola is Italy’s most wanted man, and Maldini is the man they trust to deliver him.