Valentini: “The FIGC-government clash is unflattering. An agency like this is unacceptable”

TMW Radio

To the microphones of TMW Radio during Maracana, he intervened Antonello Valentiniformer FIGC manager, to talk about the clash between the Federation and the government regarding the possible inclusion of an agency in the world of football to control the accounts:

“I’ll make a premise. We are witnessing an unflattering spectacle, with Abodi who said that he informed Gravina days ago, the latter who says that it is not true, Malagò who says that he has never been notified and Abodi who tells him that he has used inappropriate language. On this matter I say that the method is wrong and that it is unacceptable that a structure appointed by the government controls the budgets of the clubs and that the government can even decide whether a team can be registered in the championship or not can then discuss more severe, stringent controls, a Covisoc that must be strengthened, obviously there is no doubt. But it is not an unacceptable method for a government agency to put its feet and hands in the balance sheets of private companies. FIFA and UEFA intervene heavily, because certain things are clearly rejected. It’s an entry with feet together, as a Red I would say.”

And he continued: “We need to implement rules that impose more severe and stringent controls but it is unacceptable for a government agency to intervene in sports management. Abodi was on the executive board of CONI, then he did very well in the world of football , he is the most competent and knowledgeable person on these topics but I believe he is subject to pressure within the government companies. I would have expected and hoped that the government would also deal not only with Serie A but also with the reform of sports work, which on the amateur football is having very serious effects. Just as I would hope that he will take into consideration the request of football clubs to be guaranteed a percentage of sports betting, given that 90% of them are on football and it generates important figures”.