If Pep agrees to coach Italy, the credit will go to Maldini.

The one who went straight to Barcelona to meet the Spanish coach was not FIGC President Giovanni Malago, but the new technical director Paolo Maldini, accompanied by advisor Leonardo.

This is no coincidence. It indicates that should Guardiola ultimately agree to take charge of the Azzurri, the greatest imprint will probably be left by Maldini, who has recently been entrusted with shaping the reconstruction of Italian football.

Right after being named FIGC technical director and concurrently President of Club Italia, Maldini was assigned to establish the technical direction for all national teams. The former AC Milan captain's multi-year contract aims not only to secure a new head coach but also to define the development strategy for Italian football in the coming cycle. Leonardo, Maldini's old AC Milan teammate, was brought in as an advisor to assist in the rebuilding following the failure that saw Italy miss a third consecutive World Cup.

Hence, the fact that Guardiola is FIGC's top target clearly mirrors Maldini's mindset. Rather than opting for an experienced Italian coach such as Roberto Mancini, Antonio Conte, or Andrea Pirlo, he is looking for a manager who can transform the team's mindset and style of play.

According to The Times, Maldini and Leonardo spent almost three days in Barcelona outlining the Italian national team's development plan to Guardiola. This was more than just a meeting to recruit a head coach; it was a chance for FIGC to present a long-term project aimed at restoring the Azzurri to their former glory.

Leonardo's role here should not be overlooked. Despite his low media profile, the former Brazilian star brings years of executive experience from AC Milan and PSG, along with an extensive network in international football. Italian sources indicate that Leonardo was personally asked by Maldini to join the new FIGC management to help share the burden of the rebuilding effort.

Yet, the key figure is still Paolo Maldini. For many generations of players and managers, Maldini is not just an AC Milan legend but an icon of Italian football. His reputation lends a unique weight to negotiations that few executives can match.

According to Sky Sport Italia, Guardiola has always had great respect for Maldini and Italian football. The two have enjoyed a positive relationship for years, which is seen as one of the reasons FIGC tasked Maldini with personally handling the approach to the Spanish manager. Maldini's personal standing and his capacity to articulate a vision will be FIGC's most valuable asset.

Naturally, that does not guarantee Guardiola's approval. Multiple sources indicate that the 55-year-old coach still prefers to take a break after his lengthy stint at Manchester City and is in no rush to return to the dugout. Moreover, he has attracted interest from several other national teams, leaving Italy's prospects uncertain.