Speaking to Radio Anch'io Sport, Marotta urged local authorities to approve the clubs' plans to purchase the stadium site and surrounding land, stressing that delays had left the project "in limbo." Both Milan sides have been united on the proposal for more than a year, but they are still waiting for a definitive response from the city.

"The facility is outdated and requires constant maintenance," Marotta said. "San Siro deserves respect as an icon representing the history of both clubs, but we need to look ahead. Just as Wembley was rebuilt, the same needs to happen here."

UEFA have already signalled that San Siro will not be among the venues for Euro 2032, with the stadium failing to meet modern standards. Marotta pointed out that the situation was damaging the city's reputation. "Milan and Inter are two of the city's top institutions, but the city risks becoming marginal in football. We can't host a Champions League final and won't be part of the Euros," he said.

The Inter president highlighted the financial consequences of inaction, noting that the Milan clubs trail their rivals abroad. "We make around eighty million euros, while some clubs earn three hundred million," he explained. "A new stadium, fully funded by private investment, would bring huge benefits to the city, from jobs and tourism to modern facilities and commercial revenue."

Marotta also pointed to a stark contrast with the rest of Europe. "Over the past ten years, 153 new stadiums have been built across the continent, but in Italy only three have been renovated. Imagine this huge gap," he said.

The debate comes at a time when the two Milan giants are experiencing very different fortunes in Serie A. AC Milan, buoyed by a Christian Pulisic double at the weekend, sit third in the table with nine points from four games, just one behind leaders Juventus. Inter, by contrast, have struggled for consistency. A 2-1 victory over Sassuolo lifted them to 10th, but they have only six points after two wins and two defeats.

Despite their contrasting starts, Marotta insisted that the clubs remain united. "We want to do it together, Milan and Inter," he said. "The capacity would meet the European average, with respect for all fans, while modern aspects like skyboxes and commercial areas would ensure additional revenue. Increasing income guarantees sustainability and secures the continuity of both clubs."

For now, the Milan giants continue to wait on the city's decision, but Marotta has made it clear that without progress, the clubs may be forced to look elsewhere.

Kabelo Dlamini and Ime Okon score for Bafana in COSAFA Cup victory over Zimbabwe