The big news this week in European football is that Serie A is back as there will be an Italian team present in each of the three finals of Europe’s club competitions.
Inter, Roma and Fiorentina will be aiming to win the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League respectively.
‘Calcio’ could be set for an incredible treble, something never before seen since the recent creation of the Conference League.
It must be said, though, that none of the Italian sides are favourites for their final, but their presence is noteworthy nonetheless.
Strong Italian showing
It’s not just these three teams, either, as Milan and Juventus also reached the semi-finals of the Champions League and Europa League, respectively.
AC Milan were knocked out by rivals Inter, while Juventus fell to the kings of the competition, Sevilla.
The question now is whether this is an odd coincidence, or if there is something deeper to Italian football’s apparent resurgence. Perhaps it’s a bit of both.
Serie A remains on the periphery of Europe’s elite in terms of financial power, lacking the economic muscle to be part of the conversation for the biggest signings.
Gone are the days when Serie A broke world transfer records.
On the other, hand, it’s certain that Italian football does seem to be getting stronger, after languishing for a few years.
The academies are producing plenty of talent and clubs have leaned into this, seeking an alternative way to compete.
Inter reborn
The Nerazzurri appeared to be in the group of death, having to contend with Bayern Munich and Barcelona, along with Viktoria Plzen.
They emerged, however, and went on to knock out Porto, Benfica and Milan to earn their place in Istanbul.
In recent years, Inter have been a roller coaster in sporting and financial terms.
In uncertain circumstances, Simone Inzaghi has done a terrific job in getting this group to the final, on the basis of an excellent defensive record.
Mourinho has transformed Roma
Jose Mourinho knows a thing or two about European success so Roma‘s record should surprise no one.
After winning the Conference League last campaign, they have a shot at the Europa League this time around.
Fiorentina’s big year
The Viola are aiming to keep the Conference League trophy in Italy and they could have already won another trophy by then.
They play Inter in the Coppa Italia final on Wednesday.
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