Italian football is once again in crisis after the national team, Gli Azzurri, failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Former AC Milan U-19 and U-17 player, Federico Mangiameli, spoke out sharply about the systemic issues plaguing football in Italy following the shocking defeat.
Italy lost to Bosnia-Herzegovina in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the Path A play-off final for the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers at Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. This marked the third consecutive World Cup that Italy has missed, following their failures in 2018 and 2022.
Mangiameli shared his frustration on Instagram, writing, “On one hand I’m angry, on the other hand I’m happy. Only those who have lived in this world know the rot that lies beneath.”
Criticism of Players, Coaches, and the System
Having trained with AC Milan’s youth teams from 2001 to 2023, Mangiameli did not hold back in criticizing the deep-rooted corruption and dysfunction within Italian football. He highlighted how money and favoritism often dictate opportunities, from lower leagues to Serie A.
“Agents push players into Serie C with envelopes containing €50,000. Serie A and Primavera teams are filled with foreign players paid lavishly every month, and even coaches are unable to make decisions about who plays,” he said.
Mangiameli further described unethical treatment he witnessed firsthand: “I have seen things done purely for money, teammates treated disrespectfully by club officials, without any sense of professionalism or human decency.”
A Long-Standing and Difficult-to-Change Problem
The former forward emphasized that these are not isolated incidents but reflect a wider, entrenched culture in Italian football. Practices such as money politics, favoritism, and unfair treatment of young players have become part of the system, making reform challenging.
“This is the Italian football system—a toxic system that I have fortunately stepped away from for a while,” Mangiameli said.
He contrasted football with other sports, arguing that Italian football has become a cautionary tale of mismanagement and greed. “Unlike other sports, football here has turned into a field for self-interest, bribery, and individuals who will do anything for a little money. This is the outcome,” he explained.
Impact on Young Players
Mangiameli’s critique particularly focused on the consequences for young talents. Players in Serie C and youth leagues often face unethical practices that hinder their development, with decisions frequently influenced by financial incentives rather than merit.
“Opportunities for young players are dictated by agents and politics, not talent. The system suppresses ambition, discourages professionalism, and rewards connections over skill,” he said.
Such a culture, according to Mangiameli, not only damages careers but also undermines the quality and competitiveness of Italian football at all levels, from youth leagues to Serie A and the national team.
Lessons from a Youth Player’s Perspective
As someone who has spent over two decades within Italy’s football system, Mangiameli provides a unique perspective on why Italy continues to struggle on the international stage. He suggests that until structural reforms are implemented, Italian football will remain stagnant and prone to repeated failures.
“People see only the results, the wins and losses, but the rot comes from inside. Until the system values integrity, professionalism, and merit, Italy will continue to disappoint,” he warned.
Moving Forward and Hope Abroad
Currently playing for Club Milano in Serie D, Mangiameli has chosen to distance himself temporarily from the toxic environment he observed in Italy’s higher leagues. While critical of the system, he remains committed to football and continues to pursue his career in a more supportive and professional setting.
“I left the environment because it was harmful, but I haven’t left football. I hope that by choosing a healthier path, I can still grow and contribute positively to the sport,” he said.
Conclusion: A Call for Change in Italian Football
Federico Mangiameli’s outspoken critique highlights systemic flaws that have plagued Italian football for years. From corruption in lower leagues to favoritism in Serie A, the consequences are evident in the national team’s repeated failure to qualify for the World Cup.
His insights serve as both a warning and a call to action: Italian football must confront its toxic practices and prioritize professionalism, merit, and ethical management. Without meaningful reform, Italy risks continuing its decline on the international stage, despite the rich talent and footballing history the country possesses.
Mangiameli’s voice is a reminder that change is needed not just at the top level, but throughout the entire footballing ecosystem—from youth academies to the national team—if Italy hopes to regain its standing in world football.
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