Inter President Beppe Marotta has explained his reasoning behind supporting Giovanni Malagò as the best candidate for the new FIGC President. Marotta believes Malagò’s experience makes him an ideal “interpreter” to navigate relationships with politicians, a crucial aspect for the future of Italian football.
Following Gabriele Gravina’s resignation after Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup, a new leader is being sought for the Italian Football Federation. In a recent vote, 18 out of 20 Serie A clubs endorsed former CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) President Malagò as their preferred candidate.
Marotta Pleased with Serie A Unity
Speaking after the Lega Serie A meeting, Marotta expressed his satisfaction with the unified stance of the top-flight clubs. “This is one of the best results we’ve seen in recent years, finding some genuine consensus to pave the way for the future of both the Nazionale and reforms,” he told reporters. Marotta highlighted the necessity of engaging with politicians, stating, “We cannot avoid dealing with politicians, who are a very important reference point.”
While the current government might favor another candidate, Abete, Marotta remains optimistic about Malagò’s suitability. “I don’t know if I am disappointed with that, to be honest,” Marotta responded when asked about potential opposition. “Malagò was picked precisely because he has the profile of a sporting manager who has been in our world for many years, as we need an interpreter who can take lessons from Serie A to improve our football as a whole. Our sport is an ill patient that needs treatment.”
Abete, who has the support of the LND (Lega Nazionale Dilettanti), the amateur league holding 34% of the vote, is also a contender. Marotta emphasized Serie A’s desire to reclaim its leading role within the Italian football system. “We want to take back the role of protagonist for Serie A, which has been somewhat lost recently. We maintain that we are the locomotive driving the Italian system, even though naturally we also have to look at the situations in Serie B, C, the amateur league, and above all the youth system,” he added.
Acknowledging Abete’s contributions to football, Marotta stated, “I don’t know what Abete wants to do exactly, but he gave a great deal to football over the years, so it is his right to submit his name as a candidate.” He concluded by emphasizing the democratic process: “Whoever gets the most votes will win. These are two very important directors, and clearly Serie A has made its choice.”
