On a bright and clear Saturday afternoon, the setting sun cast a golden glow on the aluminum facade of the Milano Santagiulia hockey arena. Despite momentarily resembling its picturesque renderings, the reality of its unfinished state loomed as the sun dipped behind clouds. With just over a month left before hosting its first hockey game, concerns arise about the completion of the troubled arena.
As the clock struck four, a tired group of construction workers made their way past the barriers marking the end of their shift. Clad in green and yellow vests with hard hats in tow, they conversed in a mix of Italian and Arabic languages. Nearby, an elderly man named Michel awaited them in his stationary mobile cantina, where a worker climbed up makeshift steps to savor a post-work espresso.
Despite ongoing efforts, doubts linger regarding the arena’s readiness. The NHL has expressed reservations about the venue, citing its smaller rink size and concerns over ice quality. Organizers strive to allay fears, emphasizing the necessity of completing the project on time.
Amidst the construction chaos, the surrounding neighborhood of Santa Giulia undergoes a transformation, transitioning from aging warehouses to modern offices and residences adorned with festive lights. However, remnants of neglect and abandoned developments mar the landscape, overshadowing the arena’s potential grandeur.
As more workers streamed out of the gates, signs warning against trespassing lay forgotten in puddles. The path leading to the venue was strewn with debris and discarded coffee cups, hinting at the immense tasks yet to be accomplished. Despite uncertainties, workers like Ahmed, with a smile and a raised espresso cup, exude a sense of determined optimism for the project’s completion.