Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has called for the demolition and complete rebuilding of the historic San Siro Stadium.
According to the experienced executive, Milan risks falling behind in the modern football landscape if they do not tear down and rebuild the iconic venue.
Marotta said the city can no longer afford to delay a decision on the future of the San Siro, which has hosted countless iconic moments but is now ‘an outdated structure in constant need of maintenance’.
“Milan is one of the most attractive cities in Europe, and Milan and Inter represent two of its excellences,” Marotta said (via TuttoMercatoWeb).
“Nevertheless, the city risks becoming marginal in the football landscape. It can no longer host a Champions League Final, and it won’t be among the host cities for the 2032 Euros.
“The San Siro must be respected, it has been the stage for incredible emotions and represents the history of both clubs. But we have to look forward.
“It is an outdated structure in constant need of maintenance. Wembley was torn down and rebuilt, and here, too, there is a strong need to do the same.”
Inter and Milan recently agreed to purchase the San Siro area from the city authorities. The two clubs intend to demolish most of the current stadium and build a modern, co-owned arena nearby.
Plans suggest that the new venue will hold roughly 71,000 fans, featuring modern amenities such as sky boxes and other commercial facilities.
Marotta also weighed in on the broader benefit of undertaking the project. He claims it’ll pave the way for private investment, infrastructure upgrades and job creation.
“Right now, we are not competitive in Europe,” he added. “Milan and Inter have each earned about €80 million [from stadium], while in Europe, some clubs make €300m.
“This gap has a negative effect in terms of competitiveness. In the last 10 years, 153 stadiums have been built, while in Italy, only three have been renovated, just one percent. We urgently need a new stadium.”
Inter have taken just six points from their opening four Serie A games. After back-to-back losses, they got back to winning ways with a 2-1 win over Sassuolo on Sunday.
