The influence of the media in football carries significant weight, and a surprising truth is coming to light regarding how players are perceived and judged.
Francesco Acerbi, the Inter defender, is currently being portrayed almost as a saint, despite a controversial past and questionable behavior on the pitch, such as incidents against Barcelona. He is receiving extravagant praise from some quarters.
This stands in stark contrast to the treatment formerly given to Giorgio Chiellini, who was frequently criticized and labeled an “overly tough” defender by the very same media outlets that are now lauding Acerbi.
This situation reveals clear evidence of a double standard in the way media evaluate players` actions and histories, suggesting that perception is heavily influenced by narrative rather than just performance or conduct.