Football, Simonelli: ‘Serie A must play a central role; Malagò is an authoritative leader’

Turin, 4 April (LaPresse) – “We are the driving force behind the movement, even though we have limited electoral clout, amounting to 18 per cent. We want to be recognised as playing a central, leading role.” So said Serie A League president Ezio Simonelli in an interview with ‘Corriere della Sera’ regarding the process of rebuilding Italian football following the national team’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. “Once upon a time, all the federation presidents were representatives of Serie A; in recent years, this has no longer been the case. Not only that: we have no vice-presidencies within the federation, yet we contribute 130 million a year to ensure the smooth running of the entire movement,” he added. “Is the majority of opinion in favour of Malagò? It’s too early to take sides on the candidates. Malagò is undoubtedly a man of great experience and the most authoritative executive we have in Italy. I’m a friend of his and I’ve read that he would be willing to take on the role of FIGC president. He’s well-regarded by a large part of the system, but it’s premature to back him as Serie A’s candidate; we need to wait for the clubs’ input. Have I spoken to him? In the days leading up to the match in Bosnia. Not since then; we haven’t been in touch. I consider this a mark of respect for my presidents. I am aware of my duties and the dynamics of an institution like the League; I have a certain amount of experience, so it is only right that, before considering a potential candidacy, I receive a mandate from the League Assembly.