Although it is not for the first time in recent memory, having no Italian representatives in the Champions League Quarter Finals feels like a harsh blow at this particular moment.
Much had been said about Calcio’s recent resurgence, and this season was expected to witness one of the most compelling Scudetto battles in recent years, with the country’s biggest clubs – spearheaded by world class superstars – battling until the very end.
However, if this claimed resurgence is to be taken seriously, then the Italian clubs had to prove it against their European counterparts.
Italian Elimination
Even though Lazio are still officially in the competition at the moment of writing, the capital side will soon follow Juventus, Atalanta and Inter before them, barring a true miracle at the Allianz Arena.
First, let’s make it clear that a provincial side from Bergamo isn’t supposed to topple the greatest club in the competition’s history, nor are Simone Inzaghi’s men supposed to eliminate the reigning European and World champions in their first Champions League participation after 13 years.
The only Serie A side that truly disappointed in the round of 16 is Juventus, who failed to take advantage of a favorable draw, and were eliminated by Porto.
However, one particular trait was noticed among the three Italian sides in the Champions League knockout stage, a tactical “ploy” which paved the way for their respective downfalls.
Possession Football
Back in the day, Serie A sides were always loathed by their oppositions for their ability to shut down the areas and leave no room for silly errors.
Although the current crop of defenders available at the moment is a far cry from the likes of Gaetano Scirea, Franco Baresi and Giuseppe Bergomi, the main problem lies with the tactics.
Apparently, everyone wants to play football like Pep Guardiola and his magical possession football.
Whilst this style is attributed to Spanish football, and might have been originated from Dutch football (and others could claim different sources as well), it is definitely unrelated to classical Italian football.
From Bentancur’s horrific back-pass in the first minute against Lazio, to Mateo Musacchio’s gift to Robert Lewadowski, and finally Marco Sportiello’s howler in front of Luka Modric, all Italian clubs committed mistakes whilst trying to play possession deep into their penalty areas.
The old Italian mottos of “Safety first” and “clear the ball!” have been obviously abandoned – at least by the after-mentioned clubs.
Conclusion
Even though the more progressive football played in Serie A recently has allowed the league to attract some new fans, maybe it’s time for Italian football to recreate its own brand of football by mixing ideas from the past with some modern ones, instead of trying to imitate playing styles that might be unsuitable for the Calcio world.