Gianfranco Zola Calls for Greater Support to Italy's Lega Pro Clubs

Former Italy forward Gianfranco Zola, celebrating his 60th birthday, spoke to Sky Sport in his role as vice‑president of Lega Pro. He outlined the so‑called “Riforma Zola,” urging clubs in the third‑tier league to receive more financial and institutional backing. Zola emphasized that Lega Pro comprises 60 clubs spread across the country, many of which operate with high costs, limited revenues and presidents personally covering debts. He described these clubs as “fundamental for Italian football,” providing youth training, local infrastructure and social value.

Zola also noted a broader shift in the game, saying the classic creative number‑10 is less demanded as modern players are better prepared and have more specific roles. He highlighted the need to revive such talent through stronger youth pathways, citing recent success with Italy’s Under‑17 European championship and the recent transfer of Marco Palestra from Cagliari to Chelsea via Atalanta as examples of the development process.

The former striker called for a collective effort to sustain the league’s “hidden strength,” arguing that supporting Lega Pro clubs will ultimately benefit the whole Italian football system.