De Laurentiis: Cut Serie A to 16 Teams After Italy's World Cup Flop

Following Italy's latest World Cup qualification disappointment, Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis has put forward a proposal to reduce Serie A to 16 teams. His rationale is to create more opportunities for the national team to train. Additionally, he demands that clubs receive financial compensation and comprehensive insurance coverage for players summoned for international appearances.

Italy's national football team is once again grappling with the bitter taste of defeat, having missed out on World Cup qualification for an unprecedented third consecutive time. The Azzurri's hopes were dashed after a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final on Tuesday evening.

Just hours after the Azzurri's elimination, De Laurentiis shared his views on the current state of Italian football during an interview with Radio CRC.

"My perspective has remained consistent for a decade," he stated, adding with a hint of irony, "It simply makes me smile."

He elaborated on his long-standing concerns: "We have consistently argued that the excessive number of matches takes a toll on our players. Despite this, Serie A still operates with 20 teams. However, if we were to revert to a 16-team league and eliminate Supercup competitions held abroad, such as those in Saudi Arabia, our players – who represent a significant investment for us – would get much-needed rest. This would also free up crucial time for the national team to train. We need to critically assess whether the tactical philosophy that Italian football so often champions truly delivers success against international opponents."

De Laurentiis further asserted, "For years, I've contended that Italian football is in a state of stagnation, resistant to change. When there's no impetus for reform, everyone just drifts along. I, for one, am not content with merely 'drifting along'."

His proposed solution remains concise: "Sixteen teams, fewer games, more dedicated time for national team training."

Beyond structural changes, the Napoli chief also proposed that national federations should compensate clubs financially for calling up their players.

"Providing clubs with compensation for national team call-ups and ensuring comprehensive insurance for any injuries incurred during international duty – that, in my opinion, is the necessary catalyst for a fresh start," he emphasized.

Meanwhile, FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has resisted calls for his resignation despite mounting internal pressure. Former CONI President Giovanni Malagò has surfaced as a potential candidate to take over.

It is widely believed that the 67-year-old Malagò would have De Laurentiis's full support.

"An individual like Malagò, who consistently strives for excellence as a true professional and has repeatedly demonstrated this, is someone who genuinely contributes rather than merely takes. He also possesses a commendable sense of humanity," the Napoli President concluded.

"If we were to embark on a new beginning with him as early as tomorrow, I am confident that we could regain our strength within a couple of years."