
Serie A Backs Giovanni Malagò for FIGC Presidency
The Italian football league (Serie A) has announced its support for Giovanni Malagò's candidacy for the presidency of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), following the recent resignation of Gabriele Gravina. This move aims to organize internal affairs before the presidential elections scheduled for June 22, as elite clubs seek to unite behind a candidate capable of managing the transitional phase Italian football is currently experiencing.
Conversely, signs of division are emerging within the sports system, with reports indicating dissatisfaction from Giancarlo Abete and the Italian Amateur League regarding Malagò's potential ascent to the presidency. An unprecedented alliance is currently forming between Andrea Abodi and Abete, aiming to explore alternative options, including supporting Abete himself or Demetrio Albertini, in an attempt to block Malagò and prevent him from securing the 51% of votes required to win the position.
Observers believe that Malagò's bid could gain the backing of the players' and coaches' associations, given his standing in the sports landscape, which would enhance his chances against opposing blocs. These maneuvers are crucial, as the Amateur League holds 34% of the votes in the General Assembly, while the Players' Association controls 20% of the total voting power, making alliances and side agreements decisive in determining the next president.
It is worth noting that the Italian football scene has seen rapid developments since Gravina's resignation. The sports community recalls the results of the 2014 elections, which saw Albertini lose to Carlo Tavecchio. Giancarlo Abete's name also re-emerges as a key player in the electoral process; he had previously left the FIGC presidency after Italy's participation in the 2014 World Cup finals.