The bulimia of Italian football: it is incomprehensible how we still arrive at certain scenarios
As we witnessed the latest storm over Bologna’s decision to refuse to play their match against Milan, it became clear that Italian football is plagued by a serious case of bulimia. The inability to adapt to unforeseen events, the lack of flexibility, and the prioritization of self-interest over the good of the sport are all symptoms of this disease.
The latest postponement, caused by the death of Atalanta-Fiorentina, was recovered at the end of the championship, but what about the future? The schedule is too tight, and the consequences of a postponement can be devastating. It’s a fact that one team’s decision to prioritize their own interests over the good of the sport can impact the entire league.
The League Calcio’s decision to allow Bologna to play at their own stadium was seen as irregular by some, but it’s clear that the safety of the public and the players is at stake. The media’s excesses and the comparison with events that are not a football match are just a distraction from the real issue at hand.
The solution proposed by Bologna, to play at their own stadium with their fans, was fair, but it seemed that the League was not willing to negotiate. This leaves the question: what is incomprehensible? Is it the League’s decision, or is it Bologna’s? The truth is that the current system is unsustainable, and something needs to change.
The postponement does not favor Milan, as they will not have Hernandez or Reijnders against Napoli, but this is not the point. The choice of Bologna to refuse to play is not about gaining a technical advantage, but about the future of Italian football. It’s time for all teams to understand that the current format is no longer sustainable, and that change is necessary.
The Saudi Super Cup, which brings in money, but also trouble, is a clear example of what is wrong with the sport. It’s time for Italian football to wake up and realize that the current state of affairs is not acceptable. The future of the sport is at stake, and it’s up to the teams to take control and make the necessary changes before it’s too late.
