Empoli’s apology for the subpar pitch in the season opener

Empoli, a Serie A club, issued an apology on Sunday for the substandard condition of the field at their Stadio Carlo Castellani during the season-opening match against Monza on Saturday.

The two teams were unable to secure a 0-0 draw, but the grass’s dismal condition was the primary focus of attention. The pitch was characterized by brown, uneven sections, and one Italian publication even went so far as to call it “scandalous.”

Large sections of the pitch were torn up as the match progressed, resulting in the destruction of much of the green grass and the formation of barren earth.

The Tuscany club stated that it had been unfeasible to provide the turf with the necessary treatment in time for Saturday due to the elevated activity between seasons.

“While apologizing once again, we are certain that for the next home match against Juventus (on Sept. 15) the pitch will once again be in perfect condition,” Empoli stated in an official statement.

In a headline, the newspaper Tuttosport referred to the pitch as “scandalous” and stated that images of it “have gone around the world, leaving on the web a terrible calling card for our football.”