Italian football faces a crisis, with no clubs remaining in European competitions following early exits in the Europa League, Conference League, and Champions League.
This marks the first time since the 1986-87 season that Italian teams have been absent from all European semi-finals. The club-level wipeout compounds the national team's repeated failure to qualify for the World Cup, plunging the sport into an identity crisis.
Federation President Gabriele Gravina admitted the domestic game's foundations have crumbled, stating, "Italian football needs to be redesigned." Former coaches like Fabio Capello and Carlo Ancelotti agree, with Ancelotti noting a lack of talent and an excessive focus on tactics that has distorted Italy's historic playing style.
The financial chasm between Italy's Serie A and rival leagues is also a major concern, deterring top foreign players. Furthermore, crumbling infrastructure poses a significant threat, with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin warning that Italy could lose co-hosting rights for the 2032 Euros if stadiums are not ready.
Italy is now in a period of restructuring, with a new coach and FIGC President yet to be announced. The pressure for reform suggests a significant overhaul is necessary for the future of Italian football.