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‘Football Returns to the Streets’ is coming to Milan to coincide with the match Roberto Mancini's Italy will play at the Stadio Meazza. Following its debut in Rome during the Nations League match against Belgium in late September, this special edition of Casa Azzurri on Tour will stop in Piazzale Selinunte from 12-15 November. The FIGC's initiative brings the Italian national team closer to communities across the country alongside its football partners.
"See you on the pitch" is the initiative's slogan. It reflects the project’s aim to bring together as many football fans as possible, particularly children, in Milan's San Siro neighbourhood through a simple, spontaneous way of enjoying the game.
The initiative, organised by FIGC, will officially launch on Thursday 12 November at 16:30 CET, with FIGC Extraordinary Commissioner Giovanni Malagò, Milan City Councillor for Sport, Tourism and Youth Policies Martina Riva, President of Municipality VII Silvia Fossati, and Italy legend Alessandro Costacurta in attendance.
“Football Returns to the Streets is a special initiative,” said Extraordinary Commissioner Malagò. “After its huge success in Rome, we are proud to bring it to Milan, thanks to the invaluable support of the city council. Football is about passion, bringing people together, and having fun, and this format allows everyone to experience the game in its purest form.”
“I would like to thank FIGC for accepting the city council's proposal to make Piazzale Selinunte the heart of this project,” said Councillor for Sport Martina Riva. “The national team match will kick off a weekend of sport, community activities, and inclusion. We encourage as many young people as possible to come along and take part.”
For the occasion, Piazzale Selinunte will feature a football pitch open to everyone throughout the weekend. Participants won't need to arrive with a team already formed. They can also register individually, with teams put together on the spot in the spirit of street football and informal games among friends. The focus will be on playing, having fun, and bringing people together. Alongside the pitch, dedicated areas will offer street skills challenges, keepie-uppie contests, and other ball control activities, with entertainment throughout the day for participants and accompanying guests. There will also be giveaways and other activities. adidas will provide all the sporting equipment and materials needed, while Esselunga will supply snacks, adding to the enjoyment of this free event designed to bring people together through football.
The area will be open on Thursday from 16:30 to 19:00 CET, Friday 13 November from 16:00 to 19:00 CET, and Saturday 14 November and Sunday 15 November from 10:30 to 19:00 CET.
Information for participants: All participants will be required to complete the necessary registration forms. Minors will need permission from a parent or legal guardian.