Former AC Milan Coach On San Siro: “My Nightmare Is That It Becomes A Cathedral In A Desert” | OneFootball

Former AC Milan and England head coach Fabio Capello has shared his memories and fears over San Siro, warning that the iconic stadium risks becoming a “cathedral in a desert” if it is not modernised.

Capello, writing in La Gazzetta dello Sport, said that he “loves” San Siro but that it is in dire need of modernising.

The Italian reflect on his time spent playing at San Siro:

“I played there when the pitch was frozen, under the sun, in the rain, with tall grass and even with sawdust.”

He continued, “I have so many memories tied to San Siro that I wouldn’t even know where to begin.

“But I believe that with this Meazza, as it is conceived now, we must say goodbye.

“Something different, something new must be proposed, in line with the modern world that surrounds us.

“I have the nightmare that this stadium, so dear to me, could become a cathedral in the desert, abandoned to itself.”

Inter & AC Milan Must Modernise San Siro Or Say Goodbye – Capello

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 23: General view outside the stadium prior to the coppa Italia Semi Final match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza San Siro on April 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Capello also recalled the seemingly endless discussions that have circulated the stadium.

“For a long time now there has been talk,” Capello said.

“Of proposals, of ideas, of something that goes beyond mere debate but nothing ever comes of it.”

Capello added “I believe by now that the two clubs have understood that they need to play in a single stadium.

“Perhaps even sharing the use of it,” he continued.

He then said, “Each will have its own vision, as is only right. And yet, what happened with Euro 2032 fills me with great sadness.”

San Siro was left off of the list of Italy’s host stadium candidates for Euro 2032.

“It is incredible that a city like Milan will not have a stadium for this event.

“Especially after so many debates on the subject.”

Finally, the former England boss criticised the “terrifying” bureaucracy and looked to the example of Wembley Stadium.

“I played at the old Wembley, which was a greyhound track, then they tore it down and rebuilt it.

“And despite everything, it remains one of the most important stadiums in the world…