Could Jurgen Klopp, Zinedine Zidane, Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola all coach at the same World Cup?
Until recently, the idea would have sounded completely far-fetched. But according to the latest reports, it could become a reality at the 2030 tournament and, at least on paper, produce the greatest World Cup of all time.
As the 2026 World Cup enters its decisive stages, it is already known that Klopp will replace Julian Nagelsmann as Germany coach, while Zidane will succeed Didier Deschamps in charge of France, regardless of where the team finishes in the current tournament. Ancelotti, meanwhile, has made clear that he will remain in his role as Brazil coach.
The real bombshell, however, has come from Italy. After the four-time world champions failed to qualify for three consecutive World Cups, Paolo Maldini was appointed the national team's new sporting director. Together with Leonardo Araujo, he will oversee the rebuilding of the Azzurri, and the pair have already begun speaking with potential candidates for the coaching job.
Talks have already taken place with Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini over a possible return, but Maldini's biggest ambition is to bring Guardiola to Italy after the Catalan coach left Manchester City at the end of the season. The main obstacle is, of course, his salary. Guardiola earned €25 million per season and is expected to demand a substantial sum.
From a professional standpoint, Guardiola is considering his next move after taking several months off. Restoring Italy to the top of world soccer could prove an intriguing challenge, and it may finally persuade one of the game's most decorated coaches to move into international management.
Just imagine the 2030 World Cup with Klopp, Zidane, Ancelotti and Guardiola.
