Pep Guardiola snubs Italy despite Manchester City's struggles
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has turned down an offer to take charge of Italy’s national team, according to reports. The decision comes as City fight to close a seven-point gap to league leaders Arsenal with the new season yet to begin.
With Rodri still sidelined, Guardiola’s side ended their 2025-26 campaign on a sour note, losing 1-2 to Aston Villa on May 24. Their recent form reads LLDDW over the last five games, with two straight defeats leaving them vulnerable to Chelsea’s resurgence.
Why the Italy job mattered for Guardiola
The Italian Football Federation approached Guardiola after their Euro 2024 exit, sources told media. The offer would have reunited him with his former Barcelona assistant, sporting director Daniele Corno. But Guardiola chose to stay at City, where he has spent nine seasons and won four Premier League titles.
City’s 2025-26 numbers tell a story of missed chances. They scored 77 goals but conceded 35, a +42 goal difference that masked defensive frailties. Their 78-point haul left them seven behind Arsenal, who finished on 85 points.
What comes next for Manchester City
Guardiola’s focus now shifts to the new season, with City sitting 10th in the table before their December 12 clash against Chelsea. The fixture list resumes with City’s home game against Chelsea, a side that pushed them hard last term.
City’s summer rebuild will hinge on Rodri’s return and whether Erling Haaland can rediscover his 2023-24 form. Guardiola’s squad still boasts depth in midfield and attack, but the title race demands consistency from the first whistle.
League standing (final 2025 table - new season not yet under way): 2nd in Premier League, 78 pts, 23W-9D-6L from 38 games, recent form LDWWD.
