Serie A returns this weekend following the international break, and the first five matchdays have already shown a much higher level of soccer compared to previous seasons. The improvement stems not only from new signings but also from new refereeing rules introduced across European leagues this season, with Serie A emerging as the league that has benefited the most.

In preparation for the new season, the Italian Referee Association (AIA) underwent significant changes. Former AIA president Gianluca Rocchi stepped down in April amid an investigation into Italian referees. Although the investigation concluded without consequences, it led to a new leadership structure, with Daniele Orsato appointed as the new head referee.

Orsato has implemented a style focused on fewer fouls and more action, leading to positive feedback from players and managers. After a 3-2 victory against Napoli, Inter coach Cristian Chivu praised the referees for their handling of the game, highlighting the increased flow and entertainment value, while Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso noted the league's enhanced excitement due to the referees' new officiating approach.

A notable new rule requires players who go down and seek medical assistance to leave the pitch for one minute, discouraging time-wasting while still allowing genuine cases to receive care. As a result, the effective game time in Serie A has increased to an average of 59 minutes per game, up from 54 minutes last season.

The statistics reflect this transformation:

• Fouls per team per game decreased from 12.68 to 11.38.
• Just two red cards have been issued in six matchdays.
• 160 yellow cards were handed out, averaging just over three per game.
• Only five penalties awarded, the lowest since VAR's introduction in 2017-18.

Moreover, Serie A is averaging 2.88 goals per game, a notable improvement as it has previously struggled to compete in goal-scoring with other top European leagues. With the league resuming this weekend, there is ample reason for optimism and excitement as Serie A builds on this encouraging start.