director Fabio Paratici has delivered a blunt evaluation of Italian soccer, admitting he’s “indignant” on the present state of the system and warning that too few Italian gamers are making an impression overseas.
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Talking at a panel on youth growth in , Paratici urged a collective rethink throughout the sport. “I’m very indignant with myself for the interval we’re going by way of,” he mentioned, with .
“We should always all be indignant and replicate. We’re not doing sufficient. In any other case, we might not solely be on the World Cup, however we might additionally see extra Italians within the Premier League. , for instance, has many extra.”
He confused that the problem runs deeper than easy structural reforms.
“It’s a way of accountability we must always have, not simply individually however as a system. I’m not speaking about altering leagues, however about coaching methodology, infrastructure and the schooling of individuals. We have to be higher.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Fabio Paratici of ACF Fiorentina appears on in the course of the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Picture by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Photos)
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Paratici slams lack of psychological teaching in Italian youth
Paratici additionally revisited his expertise with ’ Beneath-23 aspect, however warned in opposition to treating it as a cure-all.
“It’s solely the ultimate step within the youth sector. In Italy we hardly ever discuss ‘post-training’, however each occupation has an apprenticeship section, so why shouldn’t footballers? The hole between Primavera and the primary group is big.”
He added that growth in Italy stays too slender in focus.
“We at all times consider technical and bodily facets, however I by no means hear concerning the cognitive aspect. Is the participant clever? Does he have character? Does he actually wish to succeed? These components matter simply as a lot.”
Regardless of his criticism, Paratici insisted the uncooked expertise remains to be there. “Our gamers should not inferior to others. Our nationwide groups show that. The distinction lies in how we practice and develop them.”