While clubs bemoan the removal of the Growth Decree, Minister Matteo Salvini insists it was done in the interests of ‘equality’ to help Italian talent and ‘did not’ make Serie A more attractive.
The financial incentives had allowed clubs to save 50 per cent on the taxes payable for salaries when signing players from abroad, effectively giving them the opportunity to match or even improve upon the wage deals offered in England and Spain.
It was expected to be extended until February 29, but has instead been scrapped, so will expire on December 31.
While the clubs are furious and consider it a disaster for their finances and ability to be competitive, Deputy Prime Minister of Italy Salvini presents the opposite side of the argument.
“The objective of the Government is to help Italian football and above all get the best out of the youth academies,” wrote Milan supporter Salvini on social media.
“For this reason, the Lega (his political party, ndr) decided to stop the decree that allows foreign players to pay fewer taxes.
“I am convinced this is a choice based on equality and common sense. The Growth Decree allowed clubs to sign athletes from abroad with a discount: an extraordinary help that lasted for years, which should’ve been an opportunity to relaunch our leagues. Making them more competitive and attractive.
“That was not the case, so I am surprised by the reactions of the clubs: they make it look like the problem in Serie A is a sort of lack of universal benefits for players who came in from abroad.
“I take responsibility for my decisions, as always. If other colleagues have different ideas, I invite them to discuss them publicly.
“The good of Italian sport is above all based on football: I am open to any debate and proposal.”
There have been suggestions from agents to limit the Growth Decree so that it can only be used on salaries over a certain amount.
Instead, it has been abandoned completely following what news agency ANSA described as a ‘heated discussion’ between ministers.
This guy is really stupid. Italy had 3 teams in CL semi. Italian Leauge is up in the ranking but this corrupt stupid guy has his own agenda.