Napoli coach Antonio Conte has described Pep Guardiola as the ideal candidate to lead the Italian national team, while dismissing speculation linking him with the position.

Speaking amid growing discussions over Italy’s coaching future, Conte said there had been no contact or agreement between him and the Italian Football Federation regarding the role.

“There’s zero between the Italian Federation and me to become the head coach. Zero so far. Let’s see in the future,” Conte said, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Napoli manager also noted that uncertainty remains within the federation itself, suggesting that discussions about a new coach may be premature.

“There’s not even the Federation president yet,” Conte remarked. “But let me say, is Italy ready to appoint a top coach?”

Highlighting the calibre of manager he believes the national team should target, Conte pointed to Guardiola as his preferred choice.

“If I were to suggest a name, I’d say Pep Guardiola. But do they have the funds to make it happen? It’s too early to say,” he added.

Conte’s comments come amid continued speculation about the future direction of the Italian national team, with his own name frequently mentioned as a potential candidate for the position.

Meanwhile, reports have indicated that Conte could leave his role at Napoli at the end of the season, despite guiding the club through a successful campaign.