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Napoli manager Antonio Conte has named Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as his preferred choice for the Italy national team job, while firmly dismissing reports linking him to the role.
Speaking amid growing speculation over the future of the Azzurri bench, Conte said there had been no contact or agreement between him and the Italian Football Federation.
“There’s zero between the Federation and me over becoming head coach. Zero for now. We’ll see what happens in the future,” Conte said, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The former Italy manager also pointed to the uncertainty surrounding the federation itself, noting that leadership questions remain unresolved.
“There isn’t even a federation president yet. But let me ask is Italy prepared to appoint a top-level coach?” he said.
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Conte argued that if Italy truly wants an elite tactician, Guardiola fits the profile. However, he questioned whether the federation possesses the financial strength required to secure a coach of the Spaniard’s calibre.
“I’ve seen people mention Pep Guardiola. If you ask me to suggest a name, I’d say Pep. But do they have the resources to make that happen? It’s still too early to tell,” he added.
The remarks arrive as uncertainty continues to surround the Italy coaching position, with Conte repeatedly mentioned among potential candidates.
Meanwhile, reports from Italy indicate Conte could be approaching the end of his spell at Napoli, with suggestions that the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss is preparing to leave the Serie A side at the close of the season.
His latest comments are likely to intensify debate over who should lead Italy into its next chapter and whether the federation is ready, financially and structurally, to pursue a manager from football’s highest shelf.
