Serie A may have lost its allure and lustre in recent years, but it could be about to be given a boost.
Over the past few years, match-fixing, poor attendances and the falling of giants such as AC Milan have all seen a once great league become rather boring.
But Italian football may soon be on the rise again – meet Elena Tambini, a 25-year-old referee and part-time model who is receiving her fair share of attention around the continent.
Tambini currently officiates in the Italian minor leagues, but she could soon be on her way to Serie B and then Serie A – and maybe even international football.
Female officials at the highest level are incredibly rare.
Assistant referee Sian Massey is currently the only active female official in the Premier League.
