Africa-Press – Lesotho. Italian clubs are facing a worrying downturn in Europe. After Juventus and AC Milan failed last season, the three Italian clubs involved in the Champions League playoffs are now close to elimination.
Napoli already exited in the group stage, while Inter, Juventus, and Atalanta all suffered damaging first-leg defeats, leaving Italy at risk of having no representative in the Champions League round of 16.
This situation marks a sharp contrast with recent years, when Italy placed clubs in every European final and climbed high in the UEFA coefficient rankings. Even Inter, finalist last season, appears to be struggling, as shown by their heavy loss against Bodø/Glimt. With ten goals conceded across three matches, the Italian press is openly pessimistic, fearing a major setback both sporting-wise and financially.
Beyond the results, deeper issues are emerging. Limited investments, tactical systems that no longer compensate for technical gaps, and increasing competition from England, Spain, Germany, and Portugal all weigh heavily. While Bologna, Roma, and Fiorentina are still alive in other competitions, the Champions League failures could deal a serious blow to Italy’s European standing unless a reaction arrives quickly in the return legs.
