Journalist Federica Zille has come to the defense of Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti, after Spalletti kissed him live during an interview after the 2-2 draw against Lazio in Serie A.
The episode occurred at the end of the match, which was accompanied by controversy over refereeing decisions.
Commenting on controversial situations, Spalletti stressed that the interpretation of the rules always remains subjective and that "it cannot be generalized that every contact is a penalty."
During the interview for DAZN, the Italian coach focused on the difference between "contact" and "impact", arguing that the rules have become too rigid.
"Analysts keep saying 'there was contact,' but that doesn't mean anything, does it? Can I kiss you? Here, that's contact," he said, giving the journalist a light kiss on the cheek to illustrate his example.
Spalletti added that VAR should serve to assess the context as a whole and not penalize every minimal touch.
Following reactions on social media and accusations of inappropriate behavior, Zille reacted publicly by minimizing the incident.
"There was no malicious intent in Spalletti's gesture. He wanted to illustrate what he was saying, that there is a difference between contact and impact," she told FantacalcioTV, according to Italian media.
The journalist added that she has known the coach for a long time and rejected claims that his action was gender-based.
"Many say he wouldn't have done it if he were a man. No, maybe he would have touched or pushed her lightly to show that it was just contact and not a foul," Zille said.
She also reacted to the use of the term "harassment" in some comments, calling it excessive.
"I've read comments that mention the word 'harassment'. It seems exaggerated, perhaps even inaccurate, because harassment is a serious issue. As a woman, I feel strongly about this topic, but that's precisely why we need to have clarity and maintain balance," the journalist concluded. /Telegraph/
