Italian club Como has defended its decision to play a Serie A fixture against AC Milan in Perth, Australia next February, calling it a necessary “sacrifice” to ensure the league’s long-term survival amid growing financial disparity with the Premier League.
UEFA reluctantly approved the match, citing the absence of legal grounds to block it. The move follows a similar decision allowing La Liga clubs Villarreal and Barcelona to play in Miami this December.
Financial Pressures and Global Reach
In a detailed statement, Como highlighted the stark contrast between Serie A’s £780 million annual domestic broadcast deal and the Premier League’s projected £12 billion revenue from 2025 to 2029. The club warned that this imbalance gives English football a “huge financial advantage” and threatens Serie A’s global competitiveness.
“This is not about greed,” Como stated. “It’s about survival. Most Italian clubs are not profitable. Sacrifices in comfort and routine are necessary for the greater good.”
UEFA and Fan Backlash
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin described the decision as “regrettable” and insisted it would not set a precedent. Meanwhile, the Football Supporters Europe (FSE) federation criticized the move, arguing that domestic matches should remain rooted in local communities.
Reviving Serie A’s Global Appeal
Como plans to bring 50 fans to Australia for the match and sees the event as a step toward restoring Serie A’s global stature. “We want to bring back the glory of the 1990s, when Italian football was the most watched and respected in the world,” the club said. “To do that, we must evolve and make Serie A a global conversation again.”