Gabriele Gravina, the president of the FIGC, expressed concern over the number of foreign players in Serie A but was positive about the growth of Italian football.
Italy’s failure to qualify for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar has again drawn attention to the number of foreign talents currently plying their trade in the Italian topflight, with some observers blaming the lack of strong youth development in the country. The topic is always contentious and will continue rumbling on for the foreseeable future.
Speaking to Radio Rai, Gravina first gave his thoughts on the start of this Serie A season.
“There was some skepticism about the start of the season, given the heat and the poor preparation, but it was swept away and Serie A started in the best possible conditions.
“I think it can be repeated in the next season as well, waiting for offers, as there will then be the European Championship in Germany.”
He touched on what Italian football can offer to the fans this year.
“We’re rediscovering the desire for football, we had so much of it and the proof is that so many people are going to stadiums.
“The clubs know they have to offer an entertaining product and this is a very important condition. Everything is shaping up, at the standings level there will be three blocks and this generates interest.”
The FIGC president commented on if it would be better to start the season after the summer transfer window closes.
“This issue is old and it alters the balance within the stability of football. However, we shouldn’t forget that we’re part of an international system and closing it before others would penalise our clubs.”
Gravina discussed the low numbers of Italian talents breaking into Serie A first teams and the issues this causes.
“The first few games weren’t positive, we hardly saw any. Then 67% of the players are foreigners and this is not a good sign.
“However, there are some clubs that manage to enhance our talents, which isn’t lacking, and some are attractive even abroad. However, I must say that some young foreigners who’ve arrived in Serie A have shown great quality.
“Then we also have to think about the list of 25 players, the current one is not bearing fruit, we will have to get our hands on it.”
Finally, Gravina gave his thoughts on Roberto Mancini’s Italy squad and what he expects from the team.
“This I’ll leave to Roberto to decide, we still have to give stability, the coach has clear ideas and there will be a mix between the hardcore and some new faces.”