A friendly between Italy and Holland may be organised, with revenue used to repay the damage caused by Feyenoord hooligans in Rome.
Vandalism caused by Dutch fans before the Europa League match against Roma on February 18 included damage to the historic Barcaccia fountain, with total costs initially estimated at €2.8m.
A friendly between Italy and Holland may be organised, with revenue used to repay the damage caused by Feyenoord hooligans in Rome.
Vandalism caused by Dutch fans before the Europa League match against Roma on February 18 included damage to the historic Barcaccia fountain, with total costs initially estimated at €2.8m.
Outrage over the destruction led mayor Ignazio Marino to demand reparation from the Dutch state, but a more amicable solution is now being considered.
Council member Paolo Masini reportedly suggested the idea of organising a friendly game between Italy and Holland, with the revenue to be used towards repaying the damage in Rome.
Marino said in a press conference that the idea meets his favour as well as that of the FIGC.
“I spoke with President [Carlo] Tavecchio who responded enthusiastically to the idea,” said the mayor.
“I'm sure we'll be able to make this happen.
“It's a great idea not just for the monetary value, but because it reminds us that sport should be associated with joy and serenity, and not to those horrible images of vandalism.
“A few hours from now I'll be hearing the mayor of Rotterdam [Ahmed Aboutaleb] to discuss the topic.”
The game is intended to be played in Rotterdam, according to La Repubblica, even though the earliest available slots in the calendar are in November.