Paolo Maldini has lamented the fading identity and reputation of Italian football, with the nation failing to challenge for honours both at club and international level.
The Serie A used to be a big player in European football, but in recent years has failed to gain a foothold both in the Champions League and the Europa League. For example, Serie A has only been represented once in a Champions League final since Inter won the competition in 2009-10.
On the international scene it has not been much better, with Italy failing to progress beyond the group stages at the past two World Cups.
"Italian football needs to start over again, " Maldini lamented.
"As a country we are searching for an identity.
"You can see it in both the Champions League and the Europa League. Spanish sides are on a different level, particularly in terms of tactics and technical qualities."
These thoughts were echoed by Fabio Cannavaro who lifted the World Cup for Italy back in 2006.
"Our football is lagging behind," Cannavaro claimed. "Real Madrid, Atletico and Barcelona are all used to getting to finals.
"Previously other countries followed our lead, we have to get back to doing what we did before."