Italian football: minister calls for reforms as young star Mattia Liberali sparks transfer race

Minister for Sport and Youth Andrea Abodi said Italian football still has strong technical and human resources, citing recent successes such as the U17 European Championship win. He urged investment in grassroots participation, recovery of the sport’s identity, and effective governance reforms to sustain talent development.

Eighteen‑year‑old Catanzaro midfielder Mattia Liberali, described as a crystal‑clear talent, has a €6 million release clause that has triggered an auction among Serie A clubs. Milan, which previously owned his registration, will retain 50 % of any future transfer fee. Interested clubs include Como, Sassuolo, Bologna and Cagliari, with Sassuolo emphasizing coach Alberto Aquilani’s role in the player’s growth.