Italian football officials convened Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola directly to discuss taking over from Roberto Mancini as national team coach.

The meeting brought together technical staff such as board members Paolo Maldini and Leonardo.

Despite continued English media speculation regarding a Premier League return, Guardiola allegedly showed little personal desire for the role.

He formerly indicated his reluctance to take on the job against reports of interest from Italy.

Currently, no decision has been made regarding the managerial position.