The Premier League’s Blind Spot
Ipswich Town defender Axel Tuanzebe, a former Manchester United graduate, recently shared his insights on the quality of Serie A football during a guest appearance on The Overlap. His stint with Napoli in the second half of the 2021-22 season left an indelible impression on him, despite limited first-team appearances. Tuanzebe is adamant that the Premier League, despite its financial clout and competitive infrastructure, often overlooks the sheer talent and tactical sophistication present in Serie A. He believes that this closed-off mentality and naivety about foreign leagues can be detrimental to the overall understanding and appreciation of football’s global landscape.
A Respectful Perspective
Tuanzebe’s experience in Italy has given him a unique perspective on the quality of play abroad. He recalls conversations with fellow players who often ask him about his time in Italy, to which he responds with a plea for more respect for foreign leagues. "We’re sort of trapped in a bubble thinking the Premier League is the best league," he says. "Yeah, competitively, it has the most money, the best infrastructure, etc., but in terms of pure talent, in players you’ve never heard about – it’s unbelievable." This sentiment reflects a broader issue within English football: the tendency to view the Premier League as the ultimate benchmark without fully recognizing the excellence in other domestic and international competitions.
The Challenge of Atalanta
One of the standout examples Tuanzebe cites is Atalanta, the Serie A side known for their high-pressing, attacking style of play. "Look at Atalanta for example," he emphasizes. "You do not want to go to Bergamo and play them. It’s a long day." Tuanzebe’s words carry significant weight, especially given Atalanta’s recent performances against Premier League giants. The team held Arsenal to a frustrating 0-0 draw in the Champions League at the start of the 2024-25 season and delivered a resounding 3-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield in the previous term’s Europa League. These results are not just flukes but a testament to Atalanta’s tactical acumen and playing quality.
The Global Stage
Atalanta’s success against English opposition is not just a case of individual brilliance but a reflection of the overall strength of Serie A. Tuanzebe’s assertion that "every team in the Premier League would struggle if they went to Bergamo on their day" is a bold statement, yet it is rooted in his firsthand experience and the growing reputation of Serie A clubs on the global stage. The Italian league has been steadily regaining its status as a powerhouse, thanks to the emergence of teams like Atalanta, who have consistently punched above their weight in European competitions. This resurgence is a reminder that football excellence is not confined to just one league.
Personal Reflection
For Tuanzebe, his time in Italy was a valuable learning experience. Although he only featured in two games during his loan spell with Napoli, the training environment, the tactical sessions, and the overall football culture left him with a deep appreciation for the Italian game. "The games are not just breezes in the park," he notes. "You really have to lock in and concentrate to perform." This level of intensity and focus is something he believes is often missing in the Premier League, where the fast-paced nature of the game sometimes overshadows the need for tactical discipline and mental fortitude.
A Call for Balance
Tuanzebe’s insights serve as a call for a more balanced and respectful view of football across different leagues. While the Premier League continues to attract the world’s best players and clubs, there is much to be gained from recognizing and learning from the strengths of other competitions. By broadening their horizons and acknowledging the talent and tactical depth of teams like Atalanta, Premier League players and coaches can enhance their own understanding of the game and improve their performances on the international stage. His experience in Serie A has undoubtedly enriched his footballing journey, and he hopes to see the same openness and respect from his peers and colleagues in the English game.
