Gravina Heading for the Exit: Decisive Meeting in Rome
Thursday, April 2nd could mark a historic day for Italian football. A summit in Rome is scheduled for around 2 PM today, involving FIGC board members and president Gabriele Gravina, who is expected to announce his resignation. If confirmed, the move would open an entirely new chapter in the governance of Italian football.
Front-Runners: Abete and Malagò
Should Gravina step down, two profiles have emerged as leading candidates for the role. The first is Giancarlo Abete, a seasoned football administrator whose candidacy has reportedly been put forward by Gravina himself as a condition for his departure. The second is Giovanni Malagò, former president of CONI (the Italian National Olympic Committee), a highly experienced figure in Italian sport — though historically more connected to disciplines like swimming, fencing, and volleyball rather than football.
The Adriano Galliani Option: A Name That Excites
Among the potential candidates for the FIGC presidency, some have floated a name that would thrill many football fans, especially those of AC Milan: Adriano Galliani. The former Rossoneri CEO, one of the greatest executives in the history of Italian and international football, is currently without a prominent role and could bring his extraordinary expertise to the Federation.
It is well known that Galliani would have loved to return to the Milan fold, but the presence of president Paolo Scaroni and CEO Giorgio Furlani in the club’s hierarchy would not have afforded him a hands-on role befitting his stature. The man known as Il Condor is someone who wants to make a real impact: if not at Milan, why not at the helm of Italian football itself?
A Turning Point for Italian Football
Gravina’s potential departure comes during a turbulent period for the Italian Football Federation, marked by Italy’s elimination from World Cup qualification and widespread dissatisfaction across the footballing landscape. The future of the national team coaching role also remains uncertain, with several names already being discussed as potential replacements.
One thing is clear: Italian football needs strong, competent, and credible leadership. And among the available profiles, Adriano Galliani remains a fascinating option that deserves serious consideration.
