Adriano Galliani is emerging as a serious challenger to Giovanni Malagò in the FIGC presidential election due on 14 December. Serie A must decide by majority which candidate to back before the 4 November deadline for candidacies.
Serie A support shifts
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Serie A was almost unanimous in supporting Malagò’s candidacy in April, but that support has weakened since. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, clubs are unhappy that major decisions have been made without consulting them, starting with the appointment of Roberto Mancini as Italy coach when many wanted Antonio Conte.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, clubs also feel left out of the choice of head of delegation and other key roles.
Galliani option gains ground
A group of clubs has sounded out Galliani, and Galliani has left the door open. Galliani’s backers hope to build support among the players, coaches and lower divisions.
Malagò says he has backing
Malagò told La Repubblica he is confident he will be re-elected. He said: "Since my election I have never felt abandoned by the majority, and I’m not discouraged by rumours about this, which may even be true."
He also said: "I recognise there is some resistance from people with important histories behind them, but through dialogue you can even create unity."
Malagò said: "I’m calling all the Serie A presidents one by one. I’ve already spoken to 13, and they all guarantee me their support."