The poor condition of the pitch at the “Carlo Castellani-Computer Gross Arena” in Empoli has raised concerns ahead of the Serie A season opener against Monza. In a statement, Empoli FC explained that the state of the playing surface was due to a series of delays and circumstances beyond their control.
The club expressed its apologies to fans, sports enthusiasts, and the league. They detailed that necessary treatments for the grass could not be carried out immediately after the previous season due to various reasons. The situation was complicated when, on June 9, they hosted a friendly match featuring Luciano Spalletti’s national team. Following that, the stadium was made available to the government and the Libyan Football Federation for a potential final phase of the Libyan championship.
However, that championship stage ended up being held at a different venue, with the decision announced only last minute, which left Empoli unable to make the needed pitch repairs in time.
Fortunately for the club, the upcoming schedule may provide some relief, as they will be away for matches against Roma and Bologna before returning home to face Juventus on the weekend of September 14-15. Empoli is hopeful that by the time they play at home again, the pitch will be restored to perfect condition, consistent with the standard they have maintained over the years, which has been appreciated by players and officials alike.