There are four candidates strongly in the mix, although one seems more like a dream than a real possibility.

Possible Returns and Known Profiles

The first name is Roberto Mancini. The coach previously led the Nazionale and was champion of Euro 2020. His departure came after the painful elimination on the road to the 2022 World Cup against North Macedonia, but his profile is still highly valued. The Federation considers him capable of rebuilding the team, just as he did in his first cycle, where he also achieved good results in the Nations League.

Furthermore, his return could be facilitated by the departure of the previous president of the Italian Football Federation, with whom he did not have a good relationship. This change opens an important door for his possible comeback.

Strong Options and a Complicated Dream

Another strong candidate is Antonio Conte. The current coach of Napoli previously led Italy between 2014 and 2016, taking the team to the quarterfinals of Euro 2016. His character, discipline, and ability to compete make him an attractive candidate, although his contractual situation complicates any immediate move.

Massimiliano Allegri also appears on the list. His experience, knowledge of Italian football, and ability to manage long-term projects position him as an interesting option. Unlike others, he has never coached the national team, which could represent a new challenge in his career.

The name that excites fans the most, but seems practically impossible, is Pep Guardiola. The Catalan coach has expressed on several occasions his interest in managing a national team. Italy would be a huge challenge, but his arrival is complicated both by his contract with Manchester City and the Federation's tradition of favoring Italian coaches.

Obstacles and Key Federation Decision

Each option faces obstacles. In the case of Conte, his link with Napoli and the position of Aurelio De Laurentiis make an immediate exit difficult. The same applies to Allegri at Juventus, where he is part of a rebuilding process.

Guardiola, on the other hand, faces not only a complex contractual situation but also some internal resistance for being a foreigner. His arrival would break a tradition of more than a century, which does not convince everyone within the Federation.

For now, the most viable option seems to be Mancini. He has a contract with Al-Sadd until 2028, but he could negotiate his departure if the right conditions are met, especially if he manages to finish the season with the championship.

Before making a decision, Italy has a clear priority: defining the new president of the Federation. The choice of coach will largely depend on that figure, as all candidates will demand full control of the project with the goal of returning the Azzurra to its rightful place in world football.

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