Maldini dismisses claims Guardiola demanded €20m to take Italy job
Paolo Maldini has played down reports that Pep Guardiola demanded a €20m salary to become Italy head coach. The FIGC technical director was asked about the speculation as he left Lega Serie A headquarters following the presentation of the federation's new project to Serie A clubs.
Recent reports had suggested Guardiola wanted a salary worth around €20m to take charge of the Azzurri. Maldini, however, firmly rejected that claim.
"For Pep, the financial aspect is not relevant in any way."
His comments suggest that money is not the main obstacle to any potential move for the Manchester City manager.
Maldini declined to discuss the wider details of any possible negotiations, but he made it clear that reports of Guardiola demanding such a salary are wide of the mark and that finances are not central to the Spaniard's thinking.
Guardiola remains the standout name linked with the Italy job. His appointment would represent a historic decision by the FIGC, not least because it would see the federation appoint a foreign head coach.
There are still significant hurdles to overcome, but, if Maldini's comments are anything to go by, Guardiola's salary is not one of them.
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