Fabio Capello has issued a fierce condemnation of Italy’s third successive World Cup elimination, branding their defeat to Bosnia as a national shame and urging the entire leadership of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) to take accountability and resign.
Speaking to the Spanish newspaper Marca immediately following Wednesday night’s agonizing penalty shootout loss in Zenica, the former manager of England, Milan, and Real Madrid did not mince his words.
“I couldn’t sleep all night; I still find it hard to comprehend what transpired,” he stated. “We are discussing a four-time world champion. This represents a profound sporting tragedy, an utter disgrace. It stands as one of the most unfortunate events in the recent history of Italian football.”
Capello Questions Lack of Resignations After Italy Disaster
Capello’s most pointed criticism, however, was directed not at the players or the coaching personnel, but squarely at the leadership overseeing the sport.
“Nobody is stepping down, and that, to me, is the most alarming aspect,” he declared. “The primary individual who ought to assume responsibility is the federation’s president, alongside the entire executive body.”
The veteran 79-year-old was equally emphatic that the underlying issue extends far beyond just one unfavorable outcome.
“This isn’t merely about results; it’s a structural problem,” he asserted. “Italy must undergo a complete reinvention. We need to assemble experts, thoroughly analyze the situation, and initiate a fundamental reconstruction. While recovery will be immensely challenging, I believe this can mark the genesis of authentic revitalization.”
As Gravina has yet to indicate any willingness to resign despite mounting pressure from various fronts, Capello’s statements amplify the increasingly dominant calls for significant change.
