Galliani gains momentum as FIGC rival, but Malagò insists ‘13 Serie A presidents back me’

CAGLIARI, ITALY - NOVEMBER 26: Adriano Galliani of Monza looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Cagliari Calcio and AC Monza at Sardegna Arena on November 26, 2023 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Adriano Galliani is emerging as a serious challenger to Giovanni Malagò in December’s FIGC presidential election, although the current Commissioner insists he still has the backing of Serie A clubs.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Serie A was almost unanimous in supporting Malagò’s candidacy in April, but that support has weakened since. The 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.

They also feel left out of the choice of head of delegation and other key roles. A group of clubs has now sounded out Galliani, who won 29 trophies in 31 years at Milan and later led Monza to their first-ever Serie A promotion. He has left the door open.

Malagò: ‘I’ve never felt abandoned’ as FIGC elections loom

Galliani’s backers hope to build support among the players, coaches and lower divisions. Serie A must decide by majority which candidate to back before the 4 November deadline for candidacies, ahead of the vote on 14 December.

Malagò, speaking to La Repubblica, is confident he will be re-elected.

“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 said. “I recognise there is some resistance from people with important histories behind them, but through dialogue you can even create unity.”

“I’m calling all the Serie A presidents one by one. I’ve already spoken to 13, and they all guarantee me their support.”