Pep Guardiola has turned down the chance to coach the Italian men's national team, telling the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) that he intends to take a break from football instead. (BBC Sport)

The decision closes a pursuit that played out in public over several weeks. FIGC president Giovanni Malagò had confirmed earlier in July that talks had been held with Guardiola, urging that the dialogue be kept "alive and warm" and insisting the approach was "not a lack of respect towards other individuals." (GianlucaDiMarzio.com)

The FIGC made its pitch in person. Technical director Paolo Maldini — the legendary former AC Milan and Italy defender — and fellow federation representative Leonardo met with Guardiola on July 20 to offer him the head coach position. (GianlucaDiMarzio.com) According to the BBC, the federation told Guardiola he could shape the role as he saw fit, on top of a substantial salary offer. Maldini also revealed that Italy had first approached Carlo Ancelotti for the job, but Ancelotti agreed to remain as head coach of Brazil. (BBC Sport)

Guardiola's departure from Manchester City had been confirmed in May, with Enzo Maresca identified as his chosen successor at the Etihad. (GianlucaDiMarzio.com) Rather than jump straight into another post, the most decorated club manager of his generation plans to step away from the dugout.

Italy's desire to land Guardiola was no secret. As far back as April, Leonardo Bonucci — a World Cup-winning defender now on the Italy staff — publicly backed the idea, saying "dreaming costs nothing." (GianlucaDiMarzio.com) In May, Italy's Minister for Sport, Andrea Abodi, called it "a possible dream, but a high-level project is needed." (GianlucaDiMarzio.com)

The stakes are real. Italy have failed to qualify for three consecutive men's World Cups — an astonishing fall for a nation that won the tournament in 2006. Their upcoming UEFA Nations League group, a competitive international tournament, includes France, Belgium, and Turkey. A demanding assignment for whoever takes the job.

With Guardiola out, Andrea Pirlo is the frontrunner to become Italy's next head coach. Pirlo, the former Juventus and Milan playmaker known for the silkiest passing of his generation, currently manages United FC in Dubai. (BBC Sport)

For Italian football, it's a familiar feeling: aiming for the biggest name on the market and watching the target move out of reach. Pirlo's appointment, if it happens, would hand the national team to a coach of undeniable pedigree but limited managerial experience. The dream was Guardiola. The reality may be a gamble.