The Generazione S Conference, called “The Future of Football: Models, Ideas, and Responsibility”, was held this afternoon at Mapei Stadium prior to Sassuolo-Como match.
The event, which brought together over 200 executives from clubs affiliated with Sassuolo through the Generazione S Project, sought to provide an overview of the current state of Italian football, while looking toward the future of the sport.
After enjoying a light lunch in the stadium’s most exclusive areas and touring the backstage of the Sassuolo-Como, all guests moved to the stadium’s conference hall to begin the educational meeting.
To kick off the event, journalist Chiara Icardi invited Veronica Squinzi, CEO of Mapei and Vice President of Sassuolo, onto the stage. She welcomed the more than 70 affiliated clubs in attendance: “Generazione S began as an educational project—not just a sports one—and aims to teach young people and children values such as commitment, meritocracy, and teamwork. We started here, then expanded nationally and internationally. For us, as owners, this project is a source of pride that we intend to carry forward with determination.” Next, Sassuolo’s Sporting Director, Francesco Palmieri, took the stage and provided a comprehensive introduction to the Generazione S project and the current state of Italian football. The discussion really got underway with a remote call from the black&green CEO Giovanni Carnevali and Como 1907 President Mirwan Suwarso, the main participants in the event’s central debate.
The discussion really got underway with a remote call from the black&green CEO Giovanni Carnevali and Como 1907 President Mirwan Suwarso, the main participants in the event’s central debate.
In the first part, the attendees discussed the topic of ownership. Two clubs united by their foresight and ability to manage a football environment, becoming a model in the Italian football landscape: “I believe that having strong ownership behind you is important and decisive. I remember when we presented the project we had in mind for Sassuolo; now I can say that it is coming to fruition, even if there is still work to be done. Together with the Squinzi family, we focused on Italian identity, young players, and facilities. We’ve become a role model for other clubs.” . Following Giovanni Carnevali’s remarks, Como President Mirwan Suwarso added: “Football is different from other businesses; it’s not easy to be innovative. In Como’s case, sustainability is important, and Sassuolo has been an excellent model for us. Revenue is also important in football, and it’s not tied exclusively to merchandising but also to tourism and consumer spending. We aim to be a unique brand that serves as a model for other sports and can be exported abroad.”
In the second part of the conference, the guests focused on “The Evolution of the Game”, covering everything from player and coach selection to analyzing game strategy.
One of the hottest topics in recent weeks has been the development and management of talent: Chiara Icardi asked the guests which factors have the greatest impact on the training of players. “Lately, there are fewer talented players than before, but that’s also because less is being invested in youth development. We invest heavily in young players, and I think Palmieri has achieved excellent results with the youth sector. I believe other clubs should do the same, starting with amateur clubs. Today, the world of football is undergoing a major transformation; there are so many more factors involved than before, even on the sporting side. We must stay positive and work together to return to our former levels.”
Following the black&green CEO’s remarks, Mirwan Suwarso also weighed in on the topic: “The Academy is a new project for us that began just three years ago, and we’re already seeing some results. To evaluate the signing of a player, we have various data and statistics, but before making a decision, we also look at the human side, which is an important aspect of a player’s development”.
Towards the end of the event, the question about the future of football and the responsibilities of its leaders was raised: “I think that regardless of who takes on the role of FIGC President, it will be a difficult job with a lot of work ahead. We are facing a rigid system that has come to a standstill. A comprehensive vision is needed to assess the entire system”. . In addition to Carnevali’s remarks, the President of Como commented: “Italian football has enormous potential for growth, but it must adapt to the new generations. It is a model that needs to be changed and must draw inspiration from new projects”.
Another important and educational event took place before the Sassuolo-Como match, providing interesting insights to the executives of affiliated clubs and members of the Education – Experience associations as part of the Generazione S project.
The day ended with the guest clubs having the opportunity to watch the 33rd matchday of Serie A Enilive and leaving Mapei Stadium with important food for thought.