Italy approached Carlo Ancelotti about the national team’s vacant managerial position before turning to Pep Guardiola, according to Italy’s technical director Paolo Maldini. The role became available after Gennaro Gattuso resigned in April following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.

Maldini explained that the Italian Football Federation initially engaged Ancelotti, citing the desire to consider some of the best candidates globally before exploring other options. “We cannot hide that we spoke to Ancelotti before Pep. It seemed right to start with those we considered the best in the world,” Maldini said.

Reports suggest that Italy is prepared to offer a lucrative contract in an effort to attract Guardiola, who previously earned around £20 million annually as Manchester City’s manager. Despite recent speculation, Brazilian officials have confirmed that Ancelotti will remain with their national team for now, even after their World Cup last-16 exit to Norway. Ancelotti and Maldini share a history as former teammates at AC Milan.

Maldini indicated that an announcement regarding Italy’s new head coach is expected soon. Former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte, Andrea Pirlo, and Roberto Mancini—who previously managed Italy and Manchester City—are all among the candidates linked with the position. The federation appears to be actively evaluating several contenders as it seeks to rebuild following consecutive World Cup qualification failures.