Gianfranco Zola is best known for his playing days, and he is still involved in the game now as a Vice President of the Lega Pro (the Serie C), where AC Milan’s Futuro squad are involved.
In the past few years, the focus on Milan’s youth ranks has been elevated, and positive signs are emerging with the Rossoneri possessing several exciting young talents. This summer, the Diavolo extended their attempts to better their youth strategy, and this has been praised.
With Francesco Camarda, Kevin Zeroli and Mattia Liberali stuck in limbo between the fringes of the senior team and a level above the Primavera a loan would be the traditional solution. Instead, the Rossoneri founded the Futuro side to allow players to continue developing naturally, all whilst playing senior football.
Zola spoke to Tuttomercatoweb (via Milan News) about the impressiveness of Milan’s Futuro set-up, whilst also speaking on the current situation involving the Curva Nord and Sud.
What do you think of the investigation into the relations between players, clubs and fans that is holding court these days?
“Sorry. It is normal that there are contacts between players and fans, but one hopes that these remain only on a sporting level. It’s a delicate subject that all parties have to work on, knowing well the role of each one.”
Given his experience, how much could we learn from the English model?
“I had the good fortune and privilege to play in England for many years and one of the best memories is the relationship we established with the fans. We have a lot to learn from English football.”
How do you assess the second-team project after the arrival of the third formation, that of Milan Futuro?
“So far the two previous formations have been able to be a positive example. They are benefiting from it. I hope the same applies to the Rossoneri. I’m sure it’s a path that helps the clubs a lot. Juventus and what they have done shows that.”