Former Juventus midfielder Massimo Mauro believes the scarcity of Serie A representatives in the 2026 World Cup final highlights the league’s declining global standing. With the 2026-27 season kicking off in exactly one month, he warns that Inter, Roma, Juventus and Napoli are running out of time to strengthen their squads.
“Italian football had two players in the final, Lautaro and Nico Paz, who, however, hardly played,” Mauro told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “It would have been a disastrous balance had it not been for the Inter man’s decisive goal in the semi-final.”
Big clubs stuck in transfer limbo
Mauro argues that Italy’s elite sides are finding it increasingly difficult to secure their primary targets. He claims Inter have adopted a “wait-and-see approach” and remain without a replacement for Denzel Dumfries or the additional defender they require.
Roma have suffered visible setbacks after failing to land English forwards Mason Greenwood and Crysencio Summerville. “That’s another example of this general feeling of difficulty,” Mauro explained. “The stars of the tournament aren’t within the reach of the Italian clubs, who are even struggling with the second-string players.”
Juventus face uncertainty over striker Dusan Vlahovic, whose departure remains unresolved. “Until he signs somewhere, I don’t see the Vlahovic case being closed,” Mauro stated. He also questioned the working methods of some directors, noting they should not be “working remotely like Ibrahimovic.”
Milan arrivals draw mixed reviews
AC Milan’s summer business has also attracted scrutiny. While Mauro approved of defender Gila’s arrival, he expressed reservations about the signing of Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain. “He wasn’t a starter at PSG,” Mauro observed, though he acknowledged the Rossoneri will hope to replicate the success of Olivier Giroud, who thrived in Italy after leaving England.
Mauro added that new manager Ruben Amorim’s attacking philosophy could prove risky without the right personnel. “Once upon a time, the stars of all the top clubs used to come to Italy, and now those who don’t find many opportunities elsewhere are coming in,” he said.
Como’s scientific approach offers contrast
Amid the widespread frustration, Mauro singled out Como for praise. Under manager Cesc Fabregas, the club has adopted what Mauro described as an “almost scientific approach” to recruitment, targeting specific profiles to fit their tactical needs.
The signing of Liberali was highlighted as a prime example of their effective strategy. “They all sit around the table and choose the players that Fabregas needs,” Mauro said. “Como, in addition to chasing these players, are able to actually sign them.”
With pre-season training entering its final phase, Mauro emphasised the urgency facing the division’s heavyweights. “Juve, Inter and Roma have to make moves soon,” he warned. “Without injuries, Napoli have a great set of staff. And I also see Como doing very well.”