UEFA's New Regulation Adds to Inter's Operational Challenges, Could Pave Way for €15 Million Versatile 18-Year-Old's Return

Renowned journalist Guaro has reported that UEFA is likely to implement a new policy next season, expanding the Champions League registration quota beyond the current 25-player limit. The existing rule restricts teams to a 25-player squad, which must include four club-trained players and four association-trained players, both having been with the club or in the national league system for three years between the ages of 15 and 21. Additionally, as part of the Financial Fair Play (FFP) sanctions, UEFA can reduce a team’s registration quota, which Inter Milan experienced under Suning's early ownership, sometimes limiting them to 21-22 players while still adhering to the 4+4 rule.

Inter often struggles to meet the club-trained player requirement, sometimes having to promote youth players or leave spots vacant. As a result, the actual number of “effective registered” players is often 2-3 less than the nominal 25. Some experts argue that 18 players are sufficient because most Serie A coaches typically rely on 11 starters and 6-7 regular substitutes, with the rest rarely seeing action. However, the intensity of the Champions League, combined with the intricate scheduling by the Italian Football Federation, often results in a grueling schedule for Inter. Any injuries can quickly lead to a shortage of available players.

UEFA’s proposed increase in the registration quota is in response to the expanded Champions League format next season, which will feature more matches and increase revenue. However, this also means a significant increase in player workload. The additional midweek fixtures and demanding schedules will inevitably lead to a higher risk of injuries. Consequently, many teams have requested UEFA to relax the registration restrictions, a suggestion that has received a positive response from UEFA.

As the circumstances evolve, so must the rules. If UEFA increases the registration quota, team-building strategies will need to be adjusted accordingly. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the rule change allowing five substitutions instead of three was a pivotal moment. Inter’s CEO, Giuseppe Marotta, capitalized on this by bolstering the squad's depth, which proved beneficial in both domestic and European competitions. Should UEFA relax the registration limits, Inter might consider further expanding their squad, a topic currently under active discussion.

Inter's Strategic Dilemma

Expanding the squad means increased budget and wage expenditures, along with transfer fees, agent commissions, and signing bonuses. In the football world, the debate between increasing budget to pursue revenue growth ("kaifa") and reducing budget to minimize costs ("jieya") is ever-present. The Italian media suggests that Inter can enhance their squad depth without significantly raising costs through two main strategies: recalling young talents on low wages and acquiring versatile players.

One such versatile player is Matteo Darmian, whose adaptability makes him an invaluable asset. This summer, Inter’s primary target is a central defender due to Francesco Acerbi’s advancing age. If acquired, Darmian's role might shift to being the “seventh central defender” and the “fifth wing-back,” covering both flanks. While this might seem like a downgrade, his playing time would likely remain substantial.

The Case for Valentin Carboni

Another focus of the discussion is the potential return of 18-year-old Valentin Carboni, currently on loan at Monza. In Monza's recent 2-0 victory over Salernitana, Carboni started as an attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation and performed admirably, delivering three key passes. This season, Carboni has made 19 appearances, scoring twice and providing three assists, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.

Carboni has played in seven different positions this season, including attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1, left and right attacking midfielder in a 3-4-2-1, central midfielder in a 3-5-2, and as a second striker. For instance, in Monza’s match against Juventus, he even played as a right winger in a 3-4-3 formation. This positional flexibility, despite its challenges for a young player with limited professional experience, highlights Carboni’s high football IQ and solid technical skills. This adaptability has caught the attention of clubs like Fiorentina, who reportedly offered €15 million for him during the winter transfer window, as well as several Premier League teams.

The Italian media are debating whether Inter should recall Carboni next season, positioning him as the “seventh midfielder” and “fifth forward.” This would enhance squad depth within the expanded Champions League registration quota without significantly increasing financial burden. Inter has deferred the decision on Carboni’s return until the end of the season, making his performance in the coming months crucial for the club’s evaluation.

UEFA's Proposed Regulation and Inter's Response

UEFA’s plan to increase the Champions League registration quota aims to mitigate the impact of an expanded schedule on player health and team performance. For Inter, this regulatory change presents both opportunities and challenges. Expanding the squad to align with the new rules is essential to maintaining competitive parity with other European clubs. Failing to adapt could result in a relative disadvantage, negating the benefits Inter gained from the five-substitution rule.

Inter faces a unique set of challenges compared to other Serie A powerhouses. The club’s schedule is already more demanding due to additional commitments like the FIFA Club World Cup and the Italian Supercup. These high-revenue tournaments are crucial for Inter’s financial stability, and the performance-based rewards directly influence their earnings. For example, the difference in revenue between an early exit and advancing in the Club World Cup could be as much as €30 million or more. Therefore, Inter aims to maximize their squad depth to secure better results and boost revenue.

Practical Solutions for Expanding Squad Depth

Inter can strategically expand their squad without significant financial strain by focusing on young talents and versatile players. Recalling young, low-wage players like Carboni and acquiring reliable multi-position players like Darmian are practical solutions. These strategies align with Inter’s financial constraints and competitive aspirations.

The upcoming transfer window will be critical for Inter. The club must balance the need for increased depth with financial prudence. The return of players like Carboni, who can cover multiple positions, will be crucial in achieving this balance. Carboni’s development at Monza this season demonstrates his potential to contribute significantly to Inter’s first team.

Conclusion

UEFA’s anticipated increase in the Champions League registration quota offers Inter Milan an opportunity to strengthen their squad depth in preparation for a more demanding schedule. This regulatory change necessitates strategic adjustments in team-building to maintain competitive parity with other top European clubs. Recalling versatile young talents like Valentin Carboni and acquiring adaptable players like Matteo Darmian will be vital for Inter’s success. As the club navigates the challenges of expanded competition and financial constraints, these strategic moves will be essential in ensuring sustained competitive performance and financial stability.