Italian football is experiencing a resurgence on the European stage, with Serie A teams making significant strides in continental competitions. Last night, Atalanta, Roma, and Fiorentina secured spots in the semi-finals of the Europa League and Europa Conference League, earning Serie A an additional place in the revamped Champions League for the upcoming season.
Despite this success, Italy's representation in the Champions League quarter-finals was notably absent this season, with no teams advancing to the last eight. Inter, the dominant force in Serie A, faltered in the round of 16, while Napoli, Lazio, and Milan exited earlier stages of the competition.
Italy's improved coefficient ranking is largely attributed to strong performances in the Europa League and Conference League, where Italian clubs like Roma and Atalanta have excelled. However, the Champions League remains the ultimate benchmark of success, with only two Italian teams reaching the semi-finals in the past five years.
Italian football is on a positive trajectory after years of struggle, with teams exceeding expectations in recent seasons. The country's coaching talent, nurtured at Coverciano, continues to shine on the global stage, enabling Italian clubs to outperform their financial resources.
Atalanta's victory over Liverpool exemplifies this trend, as coach Gian Piero Gasperini outmaneuvered Jürgen Klopp despite significant budget disparities. While Atalanta's success is commendable, sustaining such performances long-term remains a challenge.
Financial constraints pose a significant hurdle for Italian clubs, with Serie A TV deals declining in value and only a few top teams operating profitably. Stadium modernization and improved TV contracts are crucial for Serie A's growth, as the league aims to compete with Europe's elite.
While some argue that Serie A is now Europe's second-best league, structural reforms are needed to elevate Italian football further. Until then, Italy will continue to punch above its weight in European competitions, showcasing promise for the future.
