Serie A clubs back Antonio Conte as Italy head coach, prefer him over Guardiola

Serie A clubs have thrown their support behind Antonio Conte as the next head coach of the Italy national team, viewing the former Azzurri boss as a guarantee for renewal after talks with Pep Guardiola collapsed over his €20 million net annual wage demands.

According to [La Gazzetta dello Sport](https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Nazionale/23-07-2026/la-serie-a-vota-conte-come-ct-azzurro-per-rinascere-serve-una-garanzia.shtml), the clubs will voice their preference during today's meeting at the Lega Serie A headquarters with FIGC president Giovanni Malagò, new technical director Paolo Maldini, and advisor Leonardo.

Conte combines technical expertise with charisma — a proven combination from his first stint as Italy CT between 2014 and 2016. He led the Azzurri through a tough Euro 2016 group, eliminated Spain in the round of 16, and only went out to Germany on penalties in the quarter-finals after extra time.

The clubs are willing to support Conte's appointment financially. His international recognition is another factor driving their endorsement. Conte himself said in April: "If I were FIGC president, I would consider myself. I've already been with the national team, I know the environment, it's certainly flattering because representing your country is beautiful."

The meeting is scheduled for 11:30 today during the Lega assembly, where Maldini and Leonardo will present plans for a renewed national team covering youth development, facilities, and performance metrics.

Sources

• La Gazzetta dello Sport