The three Italian sides concerned within the first leg of the Champions League play-off spherical all suffered defeats, prompting Thierry Henry to query the present state of Italian soccer. Juventus have been overwhelmed by Galatasaray and Atalanta by Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, whereas Inter Milan have been overcome by Bodo Glimt in Norway.
Defending Serie A champions Napoli failed even to qualify for the play-off stage, including to issues concerning the energy of the league’s representatives in European competitors. Though Juventus, Atalanta and Inter all performed away from house within the first leg and can profit from house benefit within the return fixtures, their collective losses have raised doubts about their skill to compete on the highest stage this season.
Setbacks Elevate Wider Issues
Serie A is extensively thought to be one of many prime 5 leagues in world soccer, and Italian golf equipment have acquired reward lately. Inter Milan reached the Champions League last in 2023 and 2025, standing out in Europe below Simone Inzaghi. They at present sit on the prime of the Serie A desk, but their defeat to Bodo Glimt has intensified scrutiny.
Whereas the Norwegian aspect is thought for its resilience, the broader image suggests deeper points. The chance that each one remaining Italian groups might be eradicated at this stage has fuelled debate concerning the league’s competitiveness and consistency on the continental stage.
Henry Questions Italian Soccer’s Course
In keeping with Calciomercato, Henry expressed little shock on the outcomes. He stated, “Are you shocked by these defeats? That is the present state of Italian soccer. Have a look at Bodo’s current outcomes, each house and away. Italian groups are having severe issues; are they so assured they will come again within the second leg? I wouldn’t take it as a right; will probably be attention-grabbing to see how they attempt to come again within the second leg. When even the nationwide group struggles to succeed in the World Cup 3 times, one thing is evident.”
Henry’s remarks underline rising issues about Italian soccer’s trajectory, suggesting that current setbacks in Europe could replicate wider structural challenges throughout the home recreation.
