Lega make un-Presidented move

The Lega Calcio have approved new rules which will not allow a club representative to be named as the association’s President.

The step has been taken after the controversial decision to hire Milan vice-President Adriano Galliani as Lega chief.

Galliani, who was attacked by critics over a possible conflict of interest, resigned as President following his inclusion in the Calciopoli probe.

“It’s a revolutionary change which represents a victory for club Presidents,” explained new Lega supremo Antonio Matarrese.

“They have won because they proved they are serious, responsible and are aware that from now on they will have to show a different attitude,” continued the official. “The meeting was very productive and the new regulations will be now presented to the Italian Football Federation and commissioner Luca Pancalli for him to approve them.”

The union of Serie A and Serie B clubs were eager to underline that lessons have been learnt from the summer of scandal, even if some friction between the Lega and the Federation remains.

“We are starting a new page in our history and we wanted to prove that the new rules were not accepted passively,” added Matarrese. “On the other hand, we do not agree with the new regulations that are being prepared by the Federation. We believe that if approved the Federation would give part of its power to the Italian Olympic Committee and this would mean allowing politics to invade the world of football.”