Report: Pep set to reject Italy approach and extend coaching break

Pep Guardiola is expected to reject the chance to become Italy’s next head coach and continue his break from football, according to Mail Sport.

The Italian Football Federation is reported to have explored the possibility of appointing Guardiola, but the former Man City manager is understood to favour taking time away from the game before deciding on his next move.

The report claims financial differences have also been a factor, with Guardiola’s salary expectations said to be significantly higher than Italy’s current offer.

Guardiola left Manchester City this summer after a decade at the club, during which he won six Premier League titles, the Champions League, and multiple domestic trophies.

The Spaniard had previously suggested he would take a break from management after ending his successful spell at the Etihad Stadium, with no immediate return expected.

Italy are searching for their next permanent manager as they look to rebuild following recent disappointment on the international stage, but Guardiola now appears unlikely to be the man appointed.

There has been no official confirmation from Pep Guardiola or the Italian Football Federation, with the report suggesting the 55-year-old’s focus remains on stepping away from coaching for the time being.

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Gary is an experienced football journalist who has written for, among many others, BBC Sport and The Metro, and is now the editor of ReadEverton.com. He leads daily coverage of Everton news, transfers and analysis as part of the dave.sport network. He also writes for ReadManCity.com, ReadMotorsport and ReadNorwich within the same network. When not writing, he enjoys a nice cold pint of Guinness and trips to the cinema ... not always at the same time.

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