Maldini Dismisses Guardiola Salary Reports: ‘Economic Aspect Not Relevant’

FolioPitch.com – 24 July 2026 | In a press conference today, Paolo Maldini, the new technical director of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), emphatically denied reports that Pep Guardiola had demanded a €20 million salary to become the next coach of the Italian national team. Maldini stated that the economic aspect is not relevant for Guardiola after a report of a €20m salary demand, emphasizing that financial considerations are not a factor in the ongoing negotiations. The Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report statement came during a joint press appearance with special advisor Leonardo and FIGC President Giovanni Malagò, following a meeting with Lega Serie A representatives.

Reports had surfaced earlier in the day claiming that Guardiola, who recently concluded a highly successful ten-year tenure at Manchester City, had requested an annual salary of €20 million to take the helm of the Nazionale. However, Maldini quickly dismissed these claims, reiterating that the Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report narrative was unfounded. ‘The economic aspect is in no way relevant for Pep,’ Maldini declared, as reported by Football Italia. The former AC Milan legend stressed that Guardiola’s decision would be based on the project’s appeal and his personal readiness, not monetary terms.

Guardiola, who led Manchester City to numerous Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph, is currently taking time off with his family to decompress. Despite the allure of guiding Italy—a nation that has missed three consecutive World Cup editions—back to global prominence, the Catalan coach is reportedly weighing the challenge carefully. Sky Sport Italia also confirmed that financial details are not the sticking point, but rather Guardiola’s desire for certainty before committing to such a massive undertaking. This aligns with Maldini’s assertion that the Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report is the correct interpretation of the situation.

The Italian national team has been without a permanent head coach since Roberto Mancini’s resignation earlier this year. The FIGC has been eager to secure a high-profile replacement to revitalize the squad ahead of the next World Cup cycle. Maldini and Leonardo, both former AC Milan icons, have been tasked with identifying and appointing the right candidate. Their meeting with Serie A clubs today aimed to align the league’s interests with the national team’s needs. The discussion also covered potential friendly matches and talent development programs.

Guardiola’s name has been at the top of the wishlist for many Italian football fans, given his tactical acumen and track record of developing young players. However, the 55-year-old Spaniard has never coached a national team before, and his commitment to the role remains uncertain. Maldini’s comments suggest that the negotiations are progressing positively, but no final decision has been made. The Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report is a crucial point to clarify the true nature of the talks, which are focused on the sporting project rather than personal gain.

Leonardo, who also spoke during the press conference, echoed Maldini’s sentiments, noting that Guardiola’s potential appointment would be a ‘long-term investment’ for Italian football. ‘We are not looking for a quick fix; we want someone who can build a sustainable winning culture,’ Leonardo added. The FIGC is reportedly prepared to offer a multi-year contract that would allow Guardiola the freedom to implement his philosophy across all levels of the national team setup.

Meanwhile, other candidates have been linked to the position, including Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti, but Maldini and Leonardo have not publicly commented on alternative options. The focus remains on Guardiola, with the understanding that the Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report is a significant factor in keeping the negotiations transparent and free of misconceptions.

In conclusion, the press conference provided much-needed clarity on the financial rumors surrounding Guardiola’s potential move to Italy. Maldini’s firm denial that economic considerations are pivotal underscores the FIGC’s commitment to securing the best possible coach for the national team, regardless of cost. As Guardiola takes his time to decide, Italian fans await with bated breath, hoping that the Maldini economic aspect not relevant for Guardiola after 20m salary report will pave the way for a new era of success for the Azzurri.