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Malago: “Not many Italians are on the pitch, but many dual-nationality players choose Italy. My election? It is valid”

The election of the Italian Football Federation president was challenged by the Italian National Olympic Committee prosecutor’s office, but the man in charge at Via Allegri has no intention of slowing down.

Federation president Giovanni Malago is moving ahead, strongly dismissing all the talk about his alleged “ineligibility” for the election that made him the top figure in Italian football. At the same time, he is also focused on Italy, with the next international break potentially bringing several fresh developments regarding call-ups from new head coach Roberto Mancini.

Speaking to Ansa on the sidelines of his appearance at “Il Tempo delle Donne”, the federation president discussed the current state of the Azzurri setup.

“Faith in Mancini”

“There must be confidence in the national team, and it would be absurd if there were not. It also seems to me that there is energy and positivity, but everything still has to be shown on the pitch.”

Italians with dual nationality

“Italians playing in Serie A? In terms of numbers, there are actually not many, but they have started this league season very well. And then there are also Italians with dual nationality. I am happy that they have chosen to be with us.”

Regular election

“My election was regular and valid, but it was contested by the opposition. I know the situation well, but this new course was resisted before the elections, during the elections and immediately afterwards. For many years I have been used to speaking with people who hold different positions. I am a representative of civil society, I do all this voluntarily and I am elected, I have never been appointed. I defend the world of sport and the world of football.”