Gianluigi Donnarumma recently expressed his enjoyment working with Pep Guardiola during the 2025-26 season at Manchester City. However, he clarified that he has not attempted to persuade Guardiola to consider the vacant role of head coach for the Italy national team. Donnarumma stated, “Those choices aren’t up to me.”
Donnarumma’s Comments on Guardiola and Italy’s Coaching Situation
Italy is currently looking for a new coach after Gennaro Gattuso’s departure earlier this year. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) will not appoint a replacement until after its presidential elections on June 22. In the meantime, U21 coach Silvio Baldini is overseeing the team on an interim basis.
Upcoming Friendly Matches
Under Baldini, Italy will play international friendlies against Luxembourg on June 3 and Greece on June 7. The squad for these matches primarily features players familiar to Baldini from the youth setup. Notably, only a few players, including Donnarumma, Marco Palestra, Niccolo Pisilli, and Pio Esposito, have prior senior team experience among the 24 called up.
Coaching Speculations
During a recent press conference, Donnarumma discussed the ongoing search for a permanent head coach. While Antonio Conte remains a leading candidate, there are rising speculations about Guardiola as a “dream” choice due to his successful tenure at Manchester City. Donnarumma highlighted his positive time with Guardiola, making it clear he hoped the coach would remain part of football. Nevertheless, he noted that it was ultimately not his choice or authority to make such decisions.
Donnarumma underscored that whoever takes on the new role must fully commit to the success of the Azzurri, emphasizing the importance of national pride and team goals.
