Following a recent shareholders’ meeting in Milan, Serie A clubs have ultimately decided to maintain the number of clubs in the Italian top division at 20. Although there was a push from top clubs such as Juventus, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and AS Roma to reduce the number of clubs to 18 in order to improve the quality of football and decrease the number of games played, the proposal did not receive the necessary majority of 14 votes to pass.
Milan president Paolo Scaroni argued for the reduction in club size prior to the meeting, highlighting the concerns of clubs participating in international competitions and facing fixture congestion. Other directors, such as Torino’s president Urbino Cairo, criticized the motives behind the proposal, likening it to the formation of a super league. The debate surrounding the number of clubs in Serie A reflects the various perspectives and interests within the league.
Pursuit of Autonomy
In addition to addressing club size, Serie A clubs also voted to present reforms for more autonomy from the Italian football federation (FIGC) at the upcoming Extraordinary General Assembly in March. The league aims to have a greater decision-making weight that aligns with its economic contributions to Italian football. President Lorenzo Casini emphasized the need for Serie A to have more autonomy, drawing parallels to the Premier League’s structure in England.
Milan’s Scaroni further emphasized the disparity in power distribution within the FIGC, noting that Serie A clubs, who finance a significant portion of Italian football, only hold 12% of decision-making power. This imbalance has led to frustration among clubs that seek a more prominent role in shaping the future of Italian football. The push for autonomy reflects a broader theme of change and empowerment within Serie A.
Overall, the recent decisions made by Serie A clubs regarding club size and autonomy demonstrate the complex dynamics at play within Italian football. As the league looks towards the future, it is crucial for stakeholders to continue engaging in dialogue and pursuing reforms that will enhance the overall competitiveness and sustainability of Serie A. The discussions and debates surrounding these issues highlight the diverse perspectives and interests within the league, underscoring the importance of collaboration and strategic planning for the advancement of Italian football.
Leave a Reply