Pep Guardiola has made his position clear to the Italian Football Federation. The conversation lasted barely one minute.
The former Manchester City manager, who left the Etihad at the end of last season after a decade in charge, stated plainly that he intends to take at least one year away from football before considering any return. That message has now been delivered to the Italian Federation, who had identified Guardiola as the most ambitious and transformative candidate on their shortlist for the vacant manager role.
Italy's search continues
Italy are looking for a new head coach following their failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup. The Federation had hoped Guardiola might be persuaded to take on the challenge. The 55-year-old's response has forced them to weigh up alternatives — Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini among them.
Guardiola is not short of options. Three other national teams have also reached out to him in recent weeks, with the Netherlands believed to be among those showing interest. The involvement of four separate national federations underlines the level of confidence in what Guardiola might bring to international football.
For now, the answer remains the same. Guardiola is taking his year out. The chasing pack will have to wait.