Italy's search for a new national team coach began with an approach for Carlo Ancelotti before discussions were held with Pep Guardiola, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has confirmed.
The Azzurri are still without a permanent head coach after Gennaro Gattuso stepped down in April following Italy's failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup.
Ancelotti was Italy's first target
Earlier this week, FIGC president Giovanni Malago revealed that talks had taken place with Guardiola, adding that the federation was prepared to make financial "exceptions" in an effort to appoint the former Manchester City manager.
However, FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini has now disclosed that Ancelotti was the federation's preferred candidate before attention turned to Guardiola.
"We cannot hide the fact that we also spoke to Carlo before talking to Pep," Maldini told reporters.
"Frankly, it seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world."
Ancelotti, who played alongside Maldini for both Italy and AC Milan, has been in charge of Brazil since 2025. The 67-year-old signed a contract extension in May that will keep him with the five-time world champions until the 2030 World Cup.
Despite Brazil's round-of-16 elimination to Norway at the World Cup, the Brazilian Football Confederation has confirmed Ancelotti will remain in charge.
Guardiola talks continue as Italy weigh options
Maldini said the FIGC hopes to appoint a new coach by the end of the week but stressed that securing the right candidate remains the priority.
He declined to comment on reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport claiming Guardiola is seeking an annual salary of €20 million (£17 million), roughly double what Italy are prepared to offer.
"We honestly cannot provide any updates on what is happening at the moment," Maldini said.
Guardiola left Manchester City earlier this year after a hugely successful 10-year spell that delivered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups and the UEFA Champions League.
Italy have also been linked with several other high-profile names, including former national team coaches Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, while ex-Azzurri midfielder Andrea Pirlo has also emerged as a potential candidate.
