Max Allegri hails Luka Modric for his ‘character and humility’ after giving Milan the 2-1 victory away to Pisa. ‘We should all learn’ from the 40-year-old Croatian.

The Rossoneri have dropped more points against the relegation strugglers than anyone else this season, famously scraping a stoppage-time 2-2 draw with Pisa at San Siro in October.

This felt like a repeat, as after Ruben Loftus-Cheek nodded in the opener, Niclas Fullkrug drilled a penalty onto the upright and Felipe Loyola equalised.

Late on, Luka Modric surged into the box to score the winner, hanging on despite an avoidable Adrien Rabiot red card for dissent.

Allegri sees recurring Milan pattern

“It was not easy tonight, because Pisa are an uncomfortable team to play against. They look like they’re sitting back and doing nothing, then can strike on the counter and caught us napping on their goal too. So we take three points, but we really need to improve after this performance,” Allegri told DAZN.

Milan are now unbeaten in 23 Serie A games, the longest current run in Europe’s top five leagues, and are seemingly the only club able to keep up the pace with leaders Inter.

“This team has technical quality, every now and then we get sluggish mentally, so that is where we still need to step up a gear. The whole season could change in the space of a week, this was our sixth away game of the last nine, so it wasn’t to be taken for granted.”

Modric was named Serie A Man of the Match and became the third-oldest player to score in Serie A history, aged 40 years and 157 days.

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Pisa 1-2 Milan

“Quite aside from his marvellous technique, he really wanted to go and get this victory at the end. We should all learn from his character and incredible humility. We’re so happy to have him here, the younger players must make the most of working with him,” said Allegri.

After Pisa equalised, Allegri threw on Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao to join Fullkrug, but then replaced the German with Koni De Winter to restore balance when Modric scored.

“Penalties can be missed, it was an important moment, but these things happen. Pulisic and Leao came on with the right attitude, having three strikers like this is great for the team to have options.”

Rabiot was already going to be suspended against Como on Wednesday in the rescheduled Serie A Week 24 fixture for the yellow card, but by taking his protests too far, he received a second booking and will also sit out a ban for the Derby della Madonnina with Inter.

Considering the table, would Allegri rather see Inter or Juventus drop points in tomorrow night’s showdown?

“The important thing is that we got three points, now we are on 53, so we are one win closer to achieving our objective,” replied the Milan coach.

Pisa were unlucky to fall to a 2-1 defeat to Milan this evening, with Massimiliano Allegri’s side scoring a late goal to take all three points home with them.

Milan took the lead in the first half through Ruben Loftus-Cheek before Pisa equalised in the second half, shortly after Niclas Fullkrug missed a penalty to double the Rossoneri’s lead.

Just when Pisa looked on the verge of an important point, Luka Modric scored with five minutes to go – securing the win for the Rossoneri.

Modric was Football Italia’s Man of the Match, for his consistent involvement in Milan’s structural game, match winning goal and tireless effort over the ninety minutes.

Pisa 1-2 Milan – Player Ratings

Pisa: Nicolas 6, Canestrelli 5.5, Caracciolo 6.5, Bozhinov 6; Toure 5.5 (Leris N/A), Aebischer 5.5 (Akinsanmiro 6), Loyola 6.5 (Durosinmi N/A), Angori 5.5; Moreo 6 (Piccinini N/A), Stojilkovic 6, Tramoni 5 (Iling-Junior 6.5)

Best Pisa player: Felipe Loyola – Not often you can say a player who gave away a penalty was a team’s best player but Loyola, who, in fairness, scored Pisa’s equaliser, takes the pick. Aside from his error, which was redeemed by Fullkrug’s miss, he worked hard defensively.

Lowest Pisa rating: Idrissa Toure – To put it quite simply today, he was bodied out of the game. Lost 18 of 27 duels and lost the ball himself on four occasions. Poor performance from the German.

Coach: Oscar Hiljemark 6 – Nearly picked up an impressive point against tough opposition but was unlucky in the end. His team gave Milan a good game and the coach is showing promising signs in his first matches in charge.

Milan: Maignan 6.5; Tomori 6.5, Gabbia 5.5, Pavlovic 6.5; Athekame 6.5 (Pulisic 6), Fofana 5.5 (Ricci 6.5), Modric 7.5, Rabiot 5, Bartesaghi 6.5; Loftus-Cheek 7 (Leao 5.5), Nkunku 5.5 (Fullkrug 4.5 (De Winter N/A))

Best Milan player: Luka Modric – Put in an immense amount of effort over the ninety minutes, both offensively and defensively. Scored the winning goal and moved the ball around nicely in the midfield.

Lowest Milan rating: Niclas Fullkrug – Impressive that the red-carded Rabiot was not the worst performer on the pitch. Fullkrug came on for Nkunku, ruined a good opportunity, missed a penalty and was then substituted off for De Winter to shore things up late on. West Ham laughing all the way to the bank.

Milan scraped a 2-1 victory away to Pisa, despite Niclas Fullkrug missing a penalty and the late Adrien Rabiot red card, as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Luka Modric were on target.

The Rossoneri had a game in hand, as the Week 24 fixture with Como was rescheduled to February 18 so San Siro could be used for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony. Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic were only fit for the bench, with Alexis Saelemaekers and Santiago Gimenez still out of action. Pisa made their debut under new coach Oscar Hiljemark in last week’s 0-0 draw with Verona. Marius Marin was suspended, with Simone Scuffet, Adrian Semper, Raul Albiol, Daniel Denoon and Isak Vural injured, so third-choice goalkeeper Nicolas had his first Serie A appearance since October 2020.

When these teams met in October 2025, Zachary Athekame snatched a last-gasp 2-2 draw at San Siro, and this was Milan’s first visit to Pisa for 35 years.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Nicolas was rusty and struggled to punch away a Luka Modric free kick, but Pisa had the first real chance when Filip Stojlkovic sprung the offside trap on Stefano Moreo’s through ball, forcing Mike Maignan to rush off his line to parry one-on-one.

Milan took the lead at their first genuine scoring opportunity, as Athekame floated in a cross from the right and found Loftus-Cheek for a free header into the ground from seven yards.

Niclas Fullkrug replaced the ineffective Christopher Nkunku at half-time, and within 60 seconds had knocked the ball down with his arm for Adrien Rabiot’s half-volley, so the goal did not count.

Strahinja Pavlovic ran onto the Davide Bartesaghi pass and was brought down by Loyola for a penalty. Substitute Fullkrug stepped up and drilled it onto the upright, wasting a golden opportunity to double the Rossoneri’s lead.

Stojlkovic blasted over after Samuel Iling-Junior robbed Matteo Gabbia, while Athekame’s effort was charged down after a corner.

The penalty miss gave Pisa hope, and they capitalised on it, as Stojlkovic rolled across from the left for Moreo, with Pavlovic accidentally knocking it into the path of Felipe Loyola, who bent his right-foot finish into the far bottom corner from 12 yards.

Rafael Leao came on and his first touch let him down on a cross from the right, then Fullkrug turned wide of the near post from Samuele Ricci’s assist.

Milan managed to restore their advantage with a great move from Modric, who completed a give and go with Ricci to dribble into the box and dink the finish past Nicolas with the outside of the right boot from seven yards. It was the Croatian veteran’s second Serie A career goal.

It wasn’t over, as Rabiot brought down Piccini on the outside edge of the area and was booked, meaning he’d be suspended for the midweek round with Como. However, the midfielder continued his protests and received a second yellow card, so will also miss the Derby della Madonnina against Inter next week.

Pisa 1-2 Milan

Loftus-Cheek 39 (M), Loyola 71 (P), Modric 85 (M)

Missed penalty: Fullkrug 56 (M)

Sent off: Rabiot 92 (M)

13-02-2026 19:45

MatchDay 25

Arena Garibaldi – Stadio Romeo Anconetani

Pisa

Milan

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Idrissa Touré		16'
		39'		Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Assist: Zachary Athekame)

2nd half

		56'		Niclas Füllkrug
Felipe Loyola		71'
		85'		Luka Modric (Assist: Samuele Ricci)
		88'		Davide Bartesaghi
		90+1'		Adrien Rabiot
		90+1'		Adrien Rabiot

Match statistic

34

Possession %

66

7

Total shots

7

2

Shots on target

2

3

Shots off target

4

2

Blocked shots

1

3

Corners

1

1

Offsides

2

14

Fouls

9

Pisa

Milan

Starting lineups

12

Nicolas

Goalkeeper

4

Antonio Caracciolo

Defender

35

Felipe Loyola

Defender

90'

2

Rosen Bozhinov

Defender

3

Samuele Angori

Defender

5

Simone Canestrelli

Defender

15

Idrissa Touré

Midfielder

86'

10

Matteo Tramoni

Midfielder

57'

20

Michel Aebischer

Midfielder

56'

81

Filip Stojilkovic

Attacker

32

Stefano Moreo

Attacker

87'

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

33

Davide Bartesaghi

Defender

23

Fikayo Tomori

Defender

46

Matteo Gabbia

Defender

31

Strahinja Pavlovic

Defender

24

Zachary Athekame

Defender

77'

12

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

14

Luka Modric

Midfielder

8

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Midfielder

72'

19

Youssouf Fofana

Midfielder

72'

18

Christopher Nkunku

Attacker

46'

Substitutes

11

Juan Cuadrado

Midfielder

33

Arturo Calabresi

Defender

23

Calvin Stengs

Attacker

26

Francesco Coppola

Defender

8

Malthe Höjholt

Midfielder

9

Henrik Meister

Attacker

99

Lorran

Midfielder

34

Tommaso Guizzo

Goalkeeper

31

Matteo Luppichini

Goalkeeper

14

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro

Midfielder

56'

19

Samuel Iling-Junior

Attacker

57'

7

Mehdi Léris

Attacker

86'

36

Gabriele Piccinini

Attacker

87'

17

Rafiu Durosinmi

Attacker

90'

1

Pietro Terracciano

Goalkeeper

2

Pervis Estupiñán

Defender

30

Ardon Jashari

Midfielder

37

Matteo Pittarella

Goalkeeper

27

David Odogu

Defender

10

Rafael Leão

Attacker

72'

4

Samuele Ricci

Midfielder

72'

11

Christian Pulisic

Attacker

77'

5

Koni De Winter

Defender

90'

9

Niclas Füllkrug

Attacker

Lazio goalkeeper Ivan Provedel has praised Maurizio Sarri’s renewed determination and expressed confidence in young keeper Motta’s future, as the Biancocelesti prepare for a crucial run of fixtures.

Speaking in Lazio’s official match programme ahead of the clash with Atalanta, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Provedel said the recent penalty shoot-out victory over Bologna provided a vital boost.

“It gave us a lot,” he explained. “It helped us overcome the fatigue from a busy schedule and restored enthusiasm after a period in which we struggled to get positive results.”

Lazio goalkeeper Provedel looks ahead to Atalanta challenge

Looking ahead, he warned of the challenge posed by Atalanta – who the Biancocelesti welcome to the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening.

“They are a very strong team in great form. It will be a difficult match, and it will be different from the Coppa Italia tie because there is still time before the semi-final. We will prepare in the best way to try to win.”

Provedel also praised his counterpart, Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, calling him “one of the strongest” in the role.

On Sarri, he added: “The coach has always been determined and hungry. Time away may have given him even more desire. He transmits his passion to us.”

He also backed young goalkeeper Edoardo Motta, who arrived in Rome in January, saying: “He is talented, serious and, if he keeps working well, he can have a great career.”

Ruben Loftus-Cheek scored to give Milan the lead in Pisa this evening, as the Englishman makes it back-to-back games with a goal.

However, it was not plain sailing for the former Chelsea player, who was criticised by Rossoneri coach Massimiliano Allegri earlier in the match.

Loftus-Cheek heads home! Milan lead! #PisaMilan 0-1 pic.twitter.com/q4AzRxVhXD

— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) February 13, 2026

In the opening minutes, Allegri could be heard shouting ‘He’s walking!’ about Loftus-Cheek, via MilanNews, with the coach unimpressed by the Englishman’s lack of movement.

Allegri slams Loftus-Cheek before opening goal

Loftus-Cheek was not the only target of the coach’s early criticism, though, with the Italian shouting at Youssouf Fofana  to ‘Wake up! You’ve only touched the ball once so far.”

The English midfielder, who is playing in a more advanced role alongside Christopher Nkunku this evening, made a good run to get his head on the end of a ball from Zachary Athekame.

Allegri still managed to find time for a backhanded compliment after the goal, reportedly shouting “The first run he makes and he scores!”

You can follow the second half, and relive all the action from the first, on our Live Blog.

Mauro Icardi fired a warning to Juventus after scoring a hat-trick in Galatasaray’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Eyupspor in the Turkish Super Lig.

The former Inter striker took his tally to 47 league goals for the club, moving three clear of Burak Yilmaz in the all-time scorer charts.

The Argentine led the line with authority as the Istanbul side dominated, capitalising after their opponents were reduced to 10 men.

Former Inter man Icardi sends warning to Juventus

After the match, Icardi turned his attention to the upcoming Champions League showdown with Juventus.

“The team’s objective is to win,” he said. “I’m happy with my goals, but my job is to score. We started well, took the opponent seriously and got what we wanted. We showed we are ready for Juventus.”

Reflecting on his record, he added: “As a striker, you always want to break records. I’m honoured to score for this club. The love from the fans is incredible, they write songs for us and we try to repay them. I’ve had four fantastic years here and I’m very happy.”

Galatasaray hots Juventus in Istanbul on Tuesday evening, in the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie. The return leg will be held the following Wednesday in Turin.

Lazio have confirmed that Pedro sustained a significant ankle injury during their recent match against Bologna, forcing the veteran forward off in the first half on a stretcher.

The former Barcelona and Spain international twisted his right ankle in an awkward challenge and was unable to continue.

Lazio went on to win the match on penalties.

Subse­quent medical tests revealed a sprain-contusion injury with partial involvement of the external ligaments of the ankle.

Pedro injury a worry for thin Lazio squad

The veteran has already begun a targeted rehabilitation programme and will be monitored daily as doctors assess recovery times. Lazio have not provided a return date, but the injury represents a major setback at a crucial stage of the season.

Pedro’s contract expires this summer, and the timing raises fresh uncertainty over his immediate future and long-term plans.

The forward has remained an important figure for the Biancocelesti thanks to his experience and tactical intelligence, but his age and the severity of the injury could complicate both Lazio’s attacking options and the final months of his distinguished career.

New Pisa coach Oscar Hiljemark has fond memories of facing Milan in his playing career and wants his team to be ‘more aggressive’ this evening.

It kicks off at the Cetilar Arena at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

Alberto Gilardino was sacked after managing just one win in the opening 23 Serie A rounds, so the club poached 33-year-old Hiljemark from Elfsborg to take over.

He is no stranger to Serie A, having played for Genoa and Palermo, including bagging a brace against Milan when the Sicilians lost 3-2 at San Siro in September 2015.

Hiljemark has strong history with Milan

“I remember scoring two goals against Milan, but it was many years ago, so I hope to win this evening,” Hiljemark told DAZN Italia.

The new boss made his debut in a 0-0 draw away to fellow relegation strugglers Hellas Verona, but this is his first home game.

“It’s a lovely stadium, the fans are ready, I am very happy to be here and with this team. Matteo Tramoni has different characteristics to some of the players who we had last week, he is able to help out the defence too. I want a player who attacks the space and creates room for the others to push up and support him.

“Pisa had one way of working with their staff before, me and my staff want them to be a bit more aggressive in training. Of course, you can’t change a lot in three days of training, but we are trying some things.”

Gilardino’s Pisa held Milan to a surprising 2-2 draw at San Siro back in October 2025, but the Rossoneri have had a definite improvement in form since then.

“Milan are a strong squad, both as individuals and a group, but there are spaces where we can hurt them, and they have some problems in certain phases. We’ll see what happens when the game starts,” concluded Hiljemark.

Max Allegri explains his Milan choices for the trip to Pisa this evening and won’t hold back from Scudetto talk, even if ‘we must not lose sight of our target’ this season.

It kicks off at the Cetilar Arena at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The Rossoneri have a game in hand, as their Week 24 fixture with Como was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the opening ceremony of the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, but after that will face leaders Inter in a Scudetto showdown next weekend.

Allegri balancing Milan squad for busy week

“All we can do is try to get as many points as possible for our objective, which is the Champions League place, then we’ll see. Inter are coming off an endless run of victories, they are moving fast, and we must not lose sight of our target,” Allegri told DAZN Italia.

There are some concerns, as Milan only managed a 2-2 draw the last time they met Pisa back in October.

In fact, they had been trailing 2-1 until a last-gasp Zachary Athekame equaliser at San Siro.

“It is a tough game tonight, as Pisa are a battle for everyone, while they have a new coach with fresh ideas,” added Allegri.

“We need concentration and above all respect, playing with a high percentage of accuracy in our passing, because they will be aggressive and press us.

“We need good crosses, as they have players who are very strong in the air, they went close to a winner late on against Verona, so we must remember that games are to be played on the pitch, not on paper.”

Pisa made their debut last week under new coach Oscar Hiljemark, who held Verona to a 0-0 draw to remain in joint bottom place.

With Como and Inter coming up, Milan are resting some figures ahead of Wednesday’s clash, so Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic are only fit for the bench.

“Leao is doing much better, I had a doubt until the last minute on whether to start him or not. Pulisic trained with the team yesterday, so has about 15-20 minutes in his legs. Fullkrug and Jashari are fine, we have some great options to take off the bench,” concluded Allegri.

Tottenham Hotspur’s decision to appoint Igor Tudor as interim head coach has once again highlighted the remarkably strong links between the North London club and Juventus, a relationship that has deepened steadily over the past decade.

Tudor’s arrival reinforces a familiar Italian thread.

The Croatian spent two spells at Juventus as a player, later returned as Andrea Pirlo’s assistant, and briefly led the first team during a turbulent period.

His tactical identity, aggressive pressing, vertical transitions and a back-three structure, mirrors systems previously seen in Turin and later implemented at Spurs under Antonio Conte.

Conte amongst many Juventus & Tottenham Hotspur connections

Conte himself remains one of the most prominent bridges between the clubs.

After winning multiple Serie A titles with Juventus, he took charge at Tottenham in 2021 and brought with him tactical principles and recruitment ideas shaped in Italy.

The connection intensified with the arrival of former Juventus sporting director Fabio Paratici in North London.

Appointed in 2021, Paratici quickly turned to familiar markets and contacts, facilitating a series of deals involving Juventus-linked players.

Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur arrived from Juventus in January 2022 and became instant pillars of Tottenham’s rebuild.

Cristian Romero, signed permanently the same summer, had also been on Juventus’ books earlier in his career.

Goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini, a Juventus academy product, joined on loan, while defender Radu Drăgușin, another former Juve youth player, arrived in 2024.

The clubs have also found themselves circling similar transfer targets in recent windows, including Randal Kolo Muani and Victor Osimhen, underlining overlapping recruitment profiles and strategic priorities.

Tudor’s appointment therefore feels less like a coincidence and more like the continuation of a well-established pipeline.

Spurs’ modern identity has been shaped in part by Juventus influence, from the boardroom to the dressing room, and the Croatian’s arrival strengthens that connection at a time when the club are again searching for stability and direction.

As Tottenham enter another transitional phase, the Turin link remains as strong as ever.

Cesc Fabregas is ‘surprised’ to see Fiorentina in the relegation zone and insists Como star Nico Paz must learn to ‘live with pressure if he is to play for Real Madrid.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia on Saturday at 14.00 GMT (15.00 CET).

This is a very busy time for the Lariani, who are fresh off a stunning Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Napoli, which had to be decided in a sudden death penalty shoot-out at the Stadio Maradona.

Coming up on Wednesday is their rescheduled Serie A trip to Milan, which was moved from last weekend due to San Siro being used for the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

Fabregas taking Como to new heights

“We know that having extra time affords us the ability to work on certain dynamics that you cannot with just two training sessions per week,” confessed Fabregas in his press conference.

“Everyone studies their opponents in football, we are finding a sense of consistency and doing a few different things too, so the details count, but the whole team has contributed to this success.”

Tomorrow’s opponents Fiorentina had expected to be challenging Como for the European places, but instead find themselves locked in the relegation zone.

“Fiorentina remain a very important club and a great squad, even as a Spaniard I know that Fiorentina are famous. I realise it is a surprise to see where they are in the table, but the same 9-10 players had a great campaign last year,” noted Fabregas.

“It is a fine line between success and failure, the club invested so much and built the Viola Park training complex too. We’ll face them with the mentality of wanting to win, as I am sure they will too.”

The coach had already been approached by Inter last summer and has caught the eye of many more big clubs thanks to Como’s performances, so how satisfied is he with his progress?

“Satisfied is not a word that I have in my dictionary,” he replied.

“You can always do more. I am happy, I see players respond and we are creating something good here. Ahead of the penalties the other day, I felt this energy, everyone was connected and involved, even those who weren’t playing. I am pleased to see the growth of the club in general.”

Just before the penalty shoot-out, Fabregas took Nico Paz off, so was that to spare him the drama of missing another spot-kick after failing three out of three?

“No, I just wanted to avoid counter-attacks for the last 10-15 minutes. I am never afraid, so if Nico misses 10 penalties, I won’t take him off because of that.

“If he is going to play for Real Madrid, he’s going to have to live with a lot more pressure on his shoulders. After all, Ivan Smolcic had never taken a penalty, but he has great strength of character and I see him in training. I liked the idea of changing the characteristics that Milinkovic-Savic was facing.”

Edoardo Goldaniga and Assane Diao are still out of action, while Alvaro Morata is expected to be on the bench.

Milan look to Christopher Nkunku, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot for their trip to Pisa, who are under new coach Oscar Hiljemark.

It kicks off at the Cetilar Arena at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The Rossoneri rested last weekend, as with San Siro out of action for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony, their match with Como has been rescheduled for February 18.

With that in mind, Max Allegri rotates the squad to rest some players for midweek, as Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic are carrying knocks.

Alexis Saelemaekers and long-term absentee Santiago Gimenez are on the treatment table.

Instead, Nkunku leads the attack with support from Loftus-Cheek, Rabiot and Modric, while Zachary Athekame gets a rare start out wide.

Pisa are rock bottom of the Serie A table with just one win in their opening 24 games.

That record saw them sack Alberto Gilardino and bring in former Elfsborg coach Hiljemark, who at age 33 is younger than several of the Milan players.

He is no stranger to Italian football, having played for Genoa and Palermo as recently as 2019.

Hiljemark made his debut with a 0-0 draw against fellow strugglers Hellas Verona.

Marius Marin is suspended, with both goalkeepers Simone Scuffet and Adrian Semper injured, so 37-year-old Brazilian Nicolas has to step in for his first Serie A appearance since October 2020.

Also out of action are Raul Albiol, Daniel Denoon and Isak Vural.

The club bolstered the squad in January with players like Rosen Bozhinov, Samuel Iling-Junior, Felipe Loyola, Michel Aebischer, Filip Stojlkovic and Rafiu Durosinmi.

Pisa vs. Milan line-ups

Pisa: Nicolas; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bozhinov; Touré, Aebischer, Loyola, Angori; Tramoni, Stojilkovic, Moreo

Milan: Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Athekame, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Loftus-Cheek, Nkunku

13-02-2026 19:45

MatchDay 25

Arena Garibaldi – Stadio Romeo Anconetani

Pisa

Milan

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Idrissa Touré		16'
		39'		Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Assist: Zachary Athekame)

2nd half

		56'		Niclas Füllkrug
Felipe Loyola		71'
		85'		Luka Modric (Assist: Samuele Ricci)
		88'		Davide Bartesaghi
		90+1'		Adrien Rabiot
		90+1'		Adrien Rabiot

Match statistic

34

Possession %

66

7

Total shots

7

2

Shots on target

2

3

Shots off target

4

2

Blocked shots

1

3

Corners

1

1

Offsides

2

14

Fouls

9

Pisa

Milan

Starting lineups

12

Nicolas

Goalkeeper

4

Antonio Caracciolo

Defender

35

Felipe Loyola

Defender

90'

2

Rosen Bozhinov

Defender

3

Samuele Angori

Defender

5

Simone Canestrelli

Defender

15

Idrissa Touré

Midfielder

86'

10

Matteo Tramoni

Midfielder

57'

20

Michel Aebischer

Midfielder

56'

81

Filip Stojilkovic

Attacker

32

Stefano Moreo

Attacker

87'

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

33

Davide Bartesaghi

Defender

23

Fikayo Tomori

Defender

46

Matteo Gabbia

Defender

31

Strahinja Pavlovic

Defender

24

Zachary Athekame

Defender

77'

12

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

14

Luka Modric

Midfielder

8

Ruben Loftus-Cheek

Midfielder

72'

19

Youssouf Fofana

Midfielder

72'

18

Christopher Nkunku

Attacker

46'

Substitutes

11

Juan Cuadrado

Midfielder

33

Arturo Calabresi

Defender

23

Calvin Stengs

Attacker

26

Francesco Coppola

Defender

8

Malthe Höjholt

Midfielder

9

Henrik Meister

Attacker

99

Lorran

Midfielder

34

Tommaso Guizzo

Goalkeeper

31

Matteo Luppichini

Goalkeeper

14

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro

Midfielder

56'

19

Samuel Iling-Junior

Attacker

57'

7

Mehdi Léris

Attacker

86'

36

Gabriele Piccinini

Attacker

87'

17

Rafiu Durosinmi

Attacker

90'

1

Pietro Terracciano

Goalkeeper

2

Pervis Estupiñán

Defender

30

Ardon Jashari

Midfielder

37

Matteo Pittarella

Goalkeeper

27

David Odogu

Defender

10

Rafael Leão

Attacker

72'

4

Samuele Ricci

Midfielder

72'

11

Christian Pulisic

Attacker

77'

5

Koni De Winter

Defender

90'

9

Niclas Füllkrug

Attacker

{rsn-live-v2}

Albert Gudmundsson and January signing Daniele Rugani are out of the Fiorentina squad for Saturday’s Serie A match against Como.

It kicks off at the Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia on Saturday at 14.00 GMT (15.00 CET).

The Viola have been without Tariq Lamptey for some time and that will drag on for much of the season after surgery on a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee.

Fiorentina lose Gudmundsson to injury

Gudmundsson had to be carried off the field with a sprained left ankle during last week’s 2-2 draw with Torino.

Although there were some encouraging signs in training, medical staff decided not to risk doing further damage, so the Iceland international is not making the trip to Como.

Also left out is former Juventus defender Rugani, who joined on deadline day already carrying a calf strain, so is yet to make his debut for Fiorentina.

His last appearance was in Juve’s 2-1 win over Roma on December 20.

Moise Kean should therefore be flanked by a pair of January signings, Jack Harrison and Manor Solomon.

Fiorentina squad for Como match

Christensen, De Gea, Lezzerini; Balbo, Comuzzo, Dodo, Fortini, Gosens, Kouadio, Parisi, Pongracic, Ranieri; Brescianini, Fabbian, Fagioli, Fazzini, Mandragora, Ndour; Harrison, Kean, Piccoli, Solomon

In a surprising move, former Lazio and Juventus head coach Igor Tudor has been appointed as interim manager at struggling Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur until the end of the season.

Earlier this week, the North London club sacked former Brentford coach Thomas Frank and began their search for a successor.

Instead of appointing a permanent coach right away, the club appointed Tudor for the remainder of the campaign.

However, whilst the coach has a decent track record of getting struggling clubs back on their feet, he does have a history of arguments and controversies that have often led to only brief spells in charge.

‘Nobody Is Indispensable’ – New Spurs coach Tudor has his critics

Tudor began his coaching career with Croatia side Hajduk Split, where he also started his playing career.

After a modest spell in his homeland, Tudor then spent some time with PAOK in Greece. He was in charge for less than a year, with the club publishing a rather scathing assessment of the coach upon his departure.

In their official statement, PAOK confirmed the news: “PAOK FC announces the sacking of Igor Tudor, due to unsuccessful results and disparaging comments about the quality of the team.”

He then spent a year and a half in Turkey, with Karabukspor and Galatasaray, before being sacked but he latter due to a poor run of form.

2018 and 2019 would see the coach have another awkward time, with two spells at Udinese. After being appointed for the last four games of the 2017-18 season, in which he helped Udinese avoid relegation, he chose not to extend his stay. The following March, he returned, but was sacked in November.

When replaced by Luca Gotti, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported at the time that “Gotti has rediscovered Nuytinck, the Dutch defender who admitted at Marassi that he had problems with Tudor. The former coach was also at odds with Pussetto, Barak and Mandragora. Overall, he was not particularly in tune with the dressing room.”

Lazio & Juventus bring out petulant side of Tudor

In March 2024, Tudor was appointed as head coach of Lazio, for the final eleven games of the season.

Once again proof of his role as a proficient interim coach, his presence did once again not sit well with players and staff.

The coach himself came across as entitled in his brief spell in the Italian capital, gloating as he helped Lazio qualify for Europe with six wins in eleven games. After his departure, Lazio president Claudio Lotito hit out at the former coach.

“People say Tudor did really well, taking Lazio into the Europa League,” Lotito told Dotsport via the Corriere dello Sport.

“In reality, since I have been here the club has gone into Europe 15 or 16 times, so he only achieved something I already did. Coaches and players can be replaced, they are all useful, but nobody is indispensable.”

Tudor’s time at Juventus was even more tense, with the coach criticised for his defeatist attitude – especially towards the end of his tenure. Comments that “tactics don’t count for much” drew criticism from the likes of Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero.

Furthermore, several outbursts in press conferences did not impress the Juventus hierarchy.

After an eight game winless run at the end of 2025, Tudor was sacked by Juventus and replaced by Luciano Spalletti.

In all, Tudor is definitely a capable coach – especially when it comes to dragging teams out of relegation battles and difficult situations. He has a proven track record as an interim but questions have to be asked as to how he is the right fit for Tottenham.

There is already mass discontent amongst the set-up at the North London club, who currently sit in 16th in the Premier League, just five points above the relegation zone. Tudor’s survival experience will come in handy in that regard but his personality suggests he will hardly be the one to stop the Titanic from sinking.

Italy will begin their Nations League campaign against Belgium on September 25, as the calendar is drawn up for their matches with France and Turkiye too.

The Azzurri were placed in the Group of Death in yesterday’s draw, and only the top two will go into the quarter-finals, while the bottom team can get relegated into League B.

Finishing third means going into a play-off to remain in League A with a team in second place from one of the League B groups.

Italy will open their season at home to Belgium on September 25, then visit Vincenzo Montella’s Turkiye on September 28.

A trip to France awaits on October 2, followed by hosting the Turkish talent of Kenan Yildiz and Hakan Calhanoglu on October 5.

Gennaro Gattuso’s side welcome France on November 12 and finish by visiting Belgium on November 15.

Nations League Group A fixtures

September 25

Italy vs. Belgium and Turkiye vs. France

September 28

Belgium vs. France and Turkiye vs. Italy

October 2

Belgium vs. Turkiye and France vs. Italy

October 5

France vs. Belgium and Italy vs. Turkiye

November 12

Turkiye vs. Belgium and Italy vs. France

November 15

Belgium vs. Italy and France vs. Turkiye

The number of Scotland international players on show in Serie A has prompted the return of Italian football to British free to air television in a new deal with BBC Alba.

The channel has signed a six-figure deal to show up to eight live matches from Italy’s top flight from now until the end of the 2025-26 season.

Scott McTominay was named Serie A Player of the Season in 2024-25 when winning the Scudetto at Napoli.

He is still making a big impact in Antonio Conte’s midfield, but is only part of a growing Scottish clan of Calcio stars.

Scotland flourishing in Serie A

Che Adams is at Torino, Billy Gilmour at Napoli, Bologna have captain Lewis Ferguson, Josh Doig is a regular at Sassuolo, while Lennon Miller joined Udinese.

The latest arrival on Italian soil is former Hibernian striker Kieron Bowie, who made his debut for Verona last week.

With that in mind, BBC Alba’s first Serie A game airing this weekend will be Torino vs. Bologna, with Adams against Ferguson.

That kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).

“We work very closely with Serie A to promote Italian football in every country, in as many languages as possible,” said Verona CEO Italo Zanzi to The Scotsman.

“This is completely aligned with that objective. Scottish football is in a very positive place right now in my mind, both with the international team and domestically. Obviously, we have had many players who have not only come to Italy, but really succeeded.”

Watch Serie A LIVE on BBC ALBA!

Torino v Bologna

Dìdòmhnaich 15.02.26 16:50 – KO 17.00#SerieA #HomeOfCalcio #Torino #Bologna#Gàidhlig #spòrs @BBCSport @BBCScotland @BBCSpors pic.twitter.com/IxkrFQCZXm

— BBC ALBA (@bbcalba) February 13, 2026

Alessandro Bastoni says Inter must not be obsessed with beating Juventus, but doesn’t feel the Nerazzurri have an advantage over Luciano Spalletti: ‘He knows us.’

• Read more – Chivu: I ‘watched many games’ with Spalletti, Inter stars ‘available’ vs. Juve after injuries

Inter host Juventus in the big game of Serie A Round 25 tomorrow, Saturday, February 14.

The Nerazzurri have not beaten Juventus, Milan or Napoli in any of their last 14 meetings, but Bastoni insists he and his teammates should not feel extra pressure because of that.

Bastoni: We know what Inter-Juventus means

“Surely we think the moment has come, but it must not be an obsession, or it will become counter-productive,” the Inter defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“We must remember that it’s just a game, so we must remain calm, as it was just another game, trying to add something more to win against a direct rival.

“We’ve had a week to prepare, so we get here well under all aspects,” Bastoni continued.

“That said, we know what Inter-Juventus means for the world of football. I repeat, it must not be an obsession, and we’ll have to remain focused for the entire game.”

Many Inter players, including Bastoni, Nicolò Barella, Federico Dimarco and Davide Frattesi, were regular Italy starters when Spalletti was in charge of La Nazionale. Does this mean they’ll be able to predict how he’ll prepare for the match?

“He coached us, so perhaps it’s an advantage for him as well because he knows our characteristics,” Bastoni replied.

“He surely has quality and will do anything to cause trouble for us. But we play at home, in front of our fans, and we want to put in a great performance.”

Kenan Yildiz is probably the best Juventus player currently, so what are the Nerazzurri preparing to nullify him?

“Surely, Yildiz is a very strong player, but Juventus are not just Yildiz. We’ve seen how vital McKennie is for this team,” Bastoni argued.

“Also, the balance provided by Locatelli and their defence. They have many players who know how to do things well.”

Inter are the Serie A table leaders and are still running for three titles, having qualified for the Champions League knockout play-off and the Coppa Italia semis.

“Surely, we’ve found a balance. Maybe, sometimes we are not pretty, but more efficient,” Bastoni concluded.

“This is something the coach has been working a lot on. Some things have been favourable compared to the first part of the season, and the confidence is building. These things have brought Inter to be who we are today.”

Juventus tried to bring Randal Kolo Muani back in the January transfer window, but the French forward will now reunite at Tottenham with his ex-Bianconeri coach, Igor Tudor, instead.

Kolo Muani reunion with Tudor after Juventus spell

Randal Kolo Muani could have returned to Turin in the January transfer window, but Spurs blocked his exit, deciding to retain the France international until his loan spell from PSG expires in June.

Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti confirmed before the winter transfer window deadline day that Kolo Muani was the Bianconeri’s main target following failed attempts to sign Youssef En-Nesyri, among others.

How many goals did Kolo Muani score under Tudor at Juventus?

Kolo Muani had scored 10 goals in 20 Juventus appearances in the second half of 2024-25 under Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor.

After the Croat was appointed in March 2025, Kolo Muani netted five times and provided one assist in 11 appearances.

Kolo Muani scored three goals in Serie A and two in the Club World Cup under Tudor.

Juventus failed to bring the striker back last month, but Kolo Muani will still reunite with his ex-manager, who has accepted an offer to become Tottenham’s interim coach, signing a contract until June 2026.

Several sources report that ex-Juventus and Lazio coach Igor Tudor has accepted an offer from Tottenham, becoming the Spurs’ interim coach until the end of the season.

Former Juventus and Lazio coach Tudor is set to be appointed by Premier League side Tottenham.

Tudor to become Tottenham coach until June 2026

It was reported earlier today that Spurs had opened talks with the ex-Croatia international, who has been without a club since the end of October.

According to various sources, including The Athletic, Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano, Tudor has accepted the offer from the North-London club, so he’ll be appointed as interim coach until June 2026.

Tudor was fired by Juventus this past October and formally terminated his contract with the Serie A giants the following January.

How many games did Tudor win at Juventus?

During his seven-month spell in Turin, Tudor won 10 of his 24 games in charge, drawing eight and losing six.

Former Juventus coach Thiago Motta remains under contract with Juventus until June 2027, while Luciano Spalletti’s deal expires this coming June, but the Bianconeri are keen to propose a renewal.

Antonio Conte’s Napoli have won the Supercoppa Italiana in 2025-26, but were eliminated quite early from the Coppa Italia and the Champions League, so is the Italian coach’s glass half empty or full?

According to Reddit, defending Serie A champions Napoli were among the favourites to win the Scudetto in 2025-26, but the Partenopei sit 3rd after 24 rounds, nine points below leaders Inter.

Furthermore, Conte’s side has been eliminated from the Champions League group phase and the Coppa Italia quarter-finals.

They won the Supercoppa in December 2025, beating Milan in the semis and Bologna in the final, but can Conte be satisfied with his team’s results this season?

Surely, injuries massively affected Napoli’s season as the Partenopei were forced to cope without several key players for big parts of the campaign.

The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Frank Zambo Anguissa and Billy Gilmour have been absent since October. Matteo Politano and David Neres have been on and off due to physical issues. Romelu Lukaku has only recently made his season debut after suffering a high-degree muscle injury during the pre-season.

Injuries gave Conte limited chances to rotate, especially in midfield and attack, and the Italian tactician has repeatedly changed the system in an attempt to cope with injuries and keep the defensive solidity.

The Italian tactician was irritated after a Coppa Italia elimination on penalties at the hands of Como, but still defended his players.

“I credit the lads, because it was certainly not easy to face a Como side with a full squad available, who had rested for 10 days,” he said after a 6-7 defeat on penalties at the Stadio Maradona.

“We were coming off a game played against Genoa three days ago, which we ended with 10 men and lost another player to injury, as Scott McTominay is so important for us.”

During his post-match press conference, he also highlighted that Napoli have won two titles (one Scudetto and one Supercoppa) since he was appointed in 2024, suggesting that he sees the glass half full after 18 months at the Stadio Maradona.

Conte’s contract with Napoli expires in 2027, but the Italian tactician will surely meet club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis at the end of the season to decide whether to move forward.

Napoli only have Serie A left to play for this season, and Conte will necessarily need to qualify for the Champions League to accomplish the minimum target in the league this season.

“There are many positive things. It’s true, we’ve been knocked out of the Coppa Italia and Champions League. Now Serie A is what remains, and we have to do the best we possibly can,” Conte said after Napoli’s Coppa Italia exit.

Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli said Bianconeri players are ‘happy’ with Luciano Spalletti and his methods and tells Andrea Cambiaso to ‘remain calm and work well’ despite recent criticism from the fans.

Locatelli unconventionally previewed Juventus’ upcoming match against Inter at a press conference, replacing coach Spalletti.

Juventus and Inter have had an entire week to prepare for this fixture as their European commitments will resume next week in the Champions League knockout play-off.

Inter vs. Juventus – Locatelli’s pre-match press conference

“Clearly, we were able to refresh and prepare for tomorrow; we are ready,” Locatelli said via Ilbianconero.com.

“We are aware of the importance of the game at all levels. We know Inter are strong and have a great coach. They’ve played together for a long time, and they are mature, which we’ve lacked a bit. There are some dirty games you have to win. We must keep this personality and put in a great performance tomorrow.

“To be the Juventus captain, besides being one of the biggest dreams, is a responsibility I carry with me daily. I remain humble and available to others. A captain must set the example, and I try to do it with my family as well.”

Locatelli has become a key player for Juventus under Spalletti, which wasn’t necessarily guaranteed given that the coach had omitted the 28-year-old from the Italy squad at the 2024 Euros.

“I listen to the club and the coach. I’m in shape, the coach has trusted me, and it’s been important,” Locatelli said.

“We are playing better and I’m happy with what we are trying to do.

“We can always improve. The coach keeps telling us we have room for improvement. It all starts with training. We are a young team, and we lack a bit of maturity, but we are aware of our quality.”

Juventus have climbed the table under Spalletti and have an exciting playing style, but the coach’s contract expires in June. Spalletti was appointed in October to replace Igor Tudor. Would Locatelli be happy to see the coach extend his stay beyond June?

“It’s not up to me to decide that; I can only say we are very happy with him and the way he works with us,” Locatelli replied.

“He doesn’t like being talked about. He even told me earlier that I shouldn’t talk about him. I can say that we are very happy with him.”

Andrea Cambiaso was booed by Juventus fans when he was subbed off in their last two Serie A matches against Napoli and Lazio.

“I have a solid bond with Andre; he’s a lad who listens,” Locatelli noted.

“He must only remain calm and work well. He puts in the utmost commitment, and he never holds back. Only the pitch will prove it. He’s a lad who deserves to be here; he’s strong and has personality.”

Locatelli has reunited with Jeremie Boga, who moved to Juventus from Nice in January.

“It’s been nice to reunite with him. We spent three important years at Sassuolo,” said the Juventus midfielder.

“I think he can help us; he’s strong in one-on-one, and he can be decisive. It’s what the coach kept repeating at Sassuolo; he must be aware of what he can do. I’m happy for him.”

Tomorrow, Locatelli will face off against some of his Italy teammates, including Federico Dimarco, one of the best performers in Serie A this season.

“I’m very fond of him, just as I am with the other Inter players I know well. He’s performing well, and he deserves his success. He faced criticism, but he’s doing his talking on the pitch. Naturally, I hope he isn’t at his best tomorrow,” Locatelli concluded.

Inter coach Cristian Chivu refuses to discuss referee controversies ahead of a Serie A match against Juventus: ‘If Italy have not played in the last two editions of the World Cup, it’s not because of referees.’

Serie A referees are facing intense scrutiny with several coaches voicing frustration over contentious calls, including some made even after VAR reviews.

What Chivu said about ref controversies in Serie A

Chivu is certainly not among those blaming the referees, as he stated at a press conference on Friday, on the eve of a Serie A match against Juventus.

“I will only talk about this when I hear a coach apologising because of a favourable referee decision,” Chivu said via FcInter1908.

“There are always complaints when there are errors; it’s normal, but the problem with Italian football is not the referees. If Italy have not played in the last two editions of the World Cup, it’s not because of referees. There’s a lot to improve in many aspects.”

Inter coach Cristian Chivu confirms Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu will be available for a Serie A match against Juventus tomorrow and reveals he watched ‘many games’ alongside Luciano Spalletti in the past.

Inter host rivals Juventus and San Siro on Saturday, and the Nerazzurri boss, Chivu, previewed the game at a press conference.

Inter vs. Juventus: Chivu’s press conference

“Juventus have improved with Spalletti; he has given them an identity in a short time,” said the Inter coach via FcInter1908.

“He has shown his ideas, and some players have improved. They can make anyone struggle. We continue to hope that our performances are on a good level, with the same desire as in the last few months.”

Spalletti won’t attend a press conference today, sending Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli in front of the media instead.

“I suggested bringing Lautaro, but they didn’t agree,” Chivu said, smiling.

“For a coach, it’s not easy to talk every three days. From our perspective, there aren’t many differences between one game and another. It’s a decision I would have gladly shared.”

Barella and Calhanoglu missed the last few games due to injuries, but will be eligible against the Old Lady.

“They’ve been training since Monday. Today is Friday and they’ve had no problems, so they are available,” Chivu confirmed.

“The approach is always important, especially for a team that wants to dominate and has many ways to attack you,” he continued.

“Juventus are a hybrid; they play vertically and can hurt you in many different ways. We must be ready, as we’ve always been, to accept that the control of the game will shift from one side to the other.”

Chivu praises Spalletti: ‘A role model’

Chivu played under Spalletti at Roma and still has an excellent relationship with the Tuscan tactician.

“He has improved a lot. He was already very good and has further developed,” Chivu said.

“His teams play well, with a clear identity and ideas. He’s an excellent coach, he has a lot to give to football, and he must be set as a role model. When I didn’t have the club, we watched many games together.”

Inter are the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point lead over Milan, who have a game in hand.

The Nerazzurri have been practically perfect against teams in the bottom half of the table, but haven’t won any of the last 14 Serie A matches against Juve, Napoli or Milan.

“We always go on the pitch to win, aware that there’s still a long way to go; 14 games are remaining,” Chivu concluded.

“Right now, the result of a game doesn’t make a big difference, except for the mental aspect, and I still believe the season is still long.”

Sky Sport Italia reports that Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram is unlikely to be available for tomorrow’s match against Inter due to a bone bruise.

Juventus might be forced to cope without French midfielder Thuram in their away Serie A match against Inter on Saturday.

K. Thuram risks missing Inter-Juventus

According to Sky Sport Italia, Thuram is unlikely to be available for the Bianconeri due to a bone bruise.

The Bianconeri trained at Continassa this morning and will leave for Milan on Saturday morning.

Coach Luciano Spalletti will release his quad list before the trip to Milan.

If Thuram is ruled out of the match, Teun Koopmeiners will start in central midfield alongside Manuel Locatelli.

The Old Lady’s captain will preview the Derby d’Italia at a press conference today, unconventionally replacing Spalletti in front of the media.

Thuram, 24, has scored two goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions this season.

He was one of the Juventus’ goalscorers in their 4-3 win over the Nerazzurri in the reverse fixture in September.

Second-choice Pisa goalkeeper Simone Scuffet has been ruled out of tonight’s Serie A match against Milan, so the Tuscans will either rely on third-choice keeper Nícolas or 16-year-old Tommaso Guizzo.

Pisa’s main options in goal, Adrian Semper and Scuffet, are unavailable for tonight’s Serie A match against Milan.

Pisa goalkeepers unavailable for Milan clash

Semper has been out of action for a few weeks, so Scuffet was expected to start between the sticks against the Rossoneri.

Pisa, however, have confirmed that Scuffet is also unavailable for the match due to a muscle problem that club doctors are still assessing.

This means that 37-year-old Nícolas, Pisa’s third-choice keeper, will likely make his Serie A debut with the Tuscans tonight.

Nicolas has already played in Serie A for Verona and Udinese, conceding 81 goals in 39 appearances in Italy’s top flight.

The other option for Pisa is 16-year-old Guizzo, who hasn’t yet played a game at a senior level in his career.

The Tuscans have also included Primavera goalkeeper Matteo Luppichini in their team for tonight’s game.

Milan have reportedly begun preliminary talks with Weston McKennie’s entourage as the Juventus midfielder is available for a free transfer at the end of the season.

According to Calciomercato.com, Milan have opened initial talks with Juventus midfielder McKennie.

His contract expires at the end of the season and Juventus are still working to reach an agreement to extend his stay at the Allianz Stadium.

According to the report, McKennie earns €2.5m per season at Juventus, and the Bianconeri are eager to raise his salary to €4m following his excellent performances under Luciano Spalletti.

Since the Tuscan was appointed by the Old Lady at the end of October, McKennie has scored seven goals and provided four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.

More Serie A clubs interested in McKennie

Milan have reportedly asked for updates on the 27-year-old’s future in Turin as they consider a potential free transfer that would see him reunite with his fellow USMNT star Christian Pulisic at San Siro.

According to the report, Inter and Roma are also following McKennie’s situation closely.

Matteo Moretto reports that Tottenham have initiated contacts with ex-Juventus coach Igor Tudor as Spurs continue to look for Thomas Frank’s replacement.

Former Juventus coach Tudor has emerged as a surprise candidate to replace Thomas Frank at Tottenham.

Tottenham open talks with Tudor

Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi, who left Marseille by mutual agreement earlier this week, was also linked with the job in North London.

Moretto, however, now claims on X social media that Tudor is a “strong” candidate to take over at Tottenham following Frank’s sacking.

Moretto reports that talks between Tudor and Tottenham have started.

Tudor was sacked by Juventus at the end of October after less than a year at the club.

He had replaced Thiago Motta in March 2025 and led the team to Champions League qualification in 2025-26.

Tudor was under contract with Juventus until 2027, but he reached an agreement to terminate the deal in January.

Tudor won 10 of his 24 games in charge of Juventus, drawing eight and losing six.

Brentford coach Keith Andrews praises Italy defender Michael Kayode, saying that the Azzurri boss Gennaro Gattuso ‘already knows he is a very good player.’

Kayode played a key role in Brentford’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal on Thursday, inspiring the home side’s leveller with a long-throw in.

Andrews on Kayode: Gattuso ‘already knows’

Gazzetta dello Sport asked Brentford coach Andrews what he’d tell Italy CT Gattuso if they were to speak about the ex-Fiorentina defender.

“I’d probably tell him what he probably already knows, that he’s a very good player, that he’s playing to a very, very high level on a weekly basis at such a young age,” the Brentford coach replied, via Yourlocalguardian.

“He plays with such maturity, and you’re right, I’ve said this for quite a while, it wouldn’t be correct if anybody just assessed Michael and focused on his long throw, that’s just one part of his game.

“He’s constantly evolving his game, defensively he’s outstanding, absolutely outstanding, the way he deals with opposition wingers of a high level on a weekly basis. How he approaches that with a smile on his face, he’s a pleasure to work with.”

Kayode joined Brentford on loan from Fiorentina in January 2025, completing a permanent €17.5m transfer six months later.

Kayode to get Italy call-up in March 2026?

The 21-year-old has collected 31 appearances across all competitions this season and was the MOTM in last night’s 1-1 draw against Arsenal.

He hasn’t yet made his senior Italy debut, but has eight appearances with the U21 squad.

The ex-Fiorentina full-back inspired Italy’s U19 Euro victory in 2023, scoring the winner in the final against Portugal.

Gazzetta reported earlier this week that Kayode was among the Italian Premier League players Gattuso had met for dinner ahead of next month’s World Cup play-off.

Kayode van den Berg Lewis-Potter Goal

Our leveller against Arsenal pic.twitter.com/OoYZz9mRql

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) February 13, 2026

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Fikayo Tomori is expected to be the next Milan player signing a contract extension after Mike Maignan, while Luka Modric will decide on his future at San Siro towards the end of the season.

Milan are determined to extend the contracts of more key players after convincing Maignan to sign a new deal beyond June 2026.

According to Gazzetta, Tomori is expected to be the next one, as both parties are willing to continue together.

Tomori’s current deal at San Siro runs out in June 2027. The same goes for Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who is also expected to be offered a new contract, as coach Massimiliano Allegri appreciates his physicality and versatility.

Davide Batesaghi already signed a contract extension to 2030 in May, but he has further evolved since, becoming a regular starter under Allegri, so the Italian left-back will get a pay rise in the coming months, according to Gazzetta.

Milan contract extensions: latest on Pulisic and Modric

Christian Pulisic’s contract expires in June 2027 and even if the Rossoneri have an option to extend it to 2028, the club directors are expected to sit down with the ex-Chelsea winger in the coming months to discuss a new deal with a pay rise.

Other Italian sources reported earlier this week that both Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in the USMNT captain.

Last but not least is Modric, who is contracted to the end of the season with an option until 2027. Milan have already decided to activate it, but will do so only if Modric wants to continue with Milan.

The Croatian star, 40, will make his decision at the end of the current campaign, based on his motivation and physical condition.

New Juventus signing Jeremie Boga is ‘grateful’ to have joined the Bianconeri after a terrible first part to the season at OGC Nice: ‘I didn’t eat much, and my family was scared.’

Boga joined Juventus on loan with an option to buy from Lille in the January transfer window.

“There was great emotion, but I didn’t realise until I signed. I’m grateful to be here after what happened at the start of the season. I’m really happy,” the French winger told DAZN.

The French winger already played in Serie A for Sassuolo and Atalanta. He has 20 goals and 15 assists in 137 appearances in Italy’s top flight and even scored against Juventus in the 2019-20 campaign.

“I can’t forget it. I think it was my best goal in Serie A, even against a legend like Buffon. It’s a nice memory, but now I’m here,” he said.

Boga: ‘Juventus saved me’

Boga is glad he left Nice after a troubled period in the French city. What exactly happened to him in the first part of the season?

“A bit of everything, as you saw, also with the fans,” he replied.

“It was a bad moment for my family and me. I still can’t go through the details, but I spent two months alone at home with my fitness coach and my wife. It was a bad moment, but now I’m happy to be out of that situation.

“I lost weight in the first week because I didn’t eat much. There was also emotion from the family, who were scared. I wanted to forget it and go forward.

“Juventus saved me. It’s been a blessing,” Boga continued.

“I had been frozen out of the team for two months; now I’m at Juventus. It’s a dream, and I must prove in every game and every training session that I’m lucky.”

Boga has already provided one assist since moving to the Allianz Stadium.

“It’s just about finding intensity, but I’m slowly getting it in training. I feel better every day, so I’m on a good path,” he said.

Kenan Yildiz has recently signed a contract extension to 2030. How did he welcome Boga?

“He’s a phenomenon. To play with him is fantastic,” said the ex-Sassuolo star.

“He welcomed me well and nicely. Yesterday we played together. I’m really happy to play with him.”

Boga: Khephren Thuram ‘texted me’ before Juventus move

Boga has already played with the Thuram brothers, Khephren plays for Juventus and Marcus for Inter.

“Khephren immediately texted me,” Boga said.

“Before the deal, he had read some information, so he asked me if it was true, but I could not reply.

“I played with Marcus in the France U17 team. We played two or three games together, even against Italy. I’m a friend of the Thuram brothers. I played with Khephren at Nice, and we have a good relationship.”

Tomorrow, they will all reunite in the Derby d’Italia at San Siro. Has he spoken to Marcus about it?

“Not yet, but on Saturday, we won’t be friends. We must win, and if we win, we can joke after the game,” Boga concluded.

“I’m proud because it’s a big game, Inter are the table leaders, so it will be difficult for us, but we can win, so we’ll give our all to do so.”

According to Tuttosport, Manchester United will scout Inter’s Federico Dimarco and Juventus’ Pierre Kalulu in the Derby d’Italia on Saturday.

Tuttosport newspaper reports that Manchester United will closely follow tomorrow’s Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus.

Man United to scout Kalulu and Dimarco

The Turin-based paper claims that the Red Devils have set their sights on Dimarco and Kalulu.

Kalulu has been a regular Juventus starter this season, both under Igor Tudor and Luciano Spalletti, playing as a right wing-back in the first part of the season and as a centre-back and right-back in a four-man defence under the new Juventus coach.

He has a long-term contract at the Allianz Stadium until June 2029, while Dimarco’s deal at Inter expired in barely 18 months.

Inter prepared to offer new contract to Dimarco

According to Tuttosport, the Italian left-back was ready to pen a new agreement last year, and the Nerazzurri are now ready to submit their proposal for a new contract until 2030.

The newspaper claims that Dimarco will be offered a pay rise to €5.5m per season, similar to his teammates and compatriot Nicolò Barella and Alessandro Bastoni, two other Nerazzurri veterans.

Dimarco has had an outstanding season with six goals and 13 assists in 31 appearances across all competitions. Kalulu has grabbed two goals and five assists in 34 games with Juventus in 2025-26.

Former Italy international Gianluca Zambrotta insists Juventus lack a classic centre-forward, but Weston McKennie’s versatility has made him one of the best Bianconeri players as ‘he fits everywhere.’

Juventus visit rivals Inter at San Siro tomorrow night in one of the big matches of Serie A Round 25.

“Inter have collected many points against teams competing for different targets, while Juventus have dropped points against Cagliari, Lecce, Fiorentina and Verona,” Zambrotta, a former Juventus star, told Gazzetta.

Zambrotta: What Juventus need to beat Inter

“It means a lot for a team that must fight for the Champions League or win the title. Ultimately, these points have an impact.

“Juventus must limit Dimarco, who makes the difference at Inter right now. He’s the best assistman and is having a fantastic season. Kalulu and Conceiçao will have work to do on that flank. Then Lautaro and Thuram against Kelly and Bremer, it’s a great duel because Inter have a terrific attack: the best in the league with 57 goals. Juventus must be good at one-on-one, especially on the wings with Conceiçao and Yildiz and, if he’s introduced, Zhegrova.”

When asked to predict the result, Zambrotta replied: “No prediction, I just hope Juventus win.”

Jonathan David has had highs and lows, while Lois Openda has been rarely picked to replace the injured Vlahovic at the Allianz Stadium.

The Serbia international has been out of action since December and is expected to return next month.

Zambrotta: I hope Vlahovic stays at Juventus

Vlahovic’s contract expires at the end of the season, and even if Juventus still hope to extend his stay, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have already contacted the striker’s agent ahead of a possible free transfer in the summer.

“I don’t think it’s about the strikers not getting the ball because McKennie and Yildiz are scoring the goals,” Zambrotta said.

“I think Juventus lack a classic centre-forward. Vlahovic was their No.9, like it or not, and now Juve don’t have a striker like him or Lautaro. A player of this calibre is crucial for a team like Juventus.

“It’s correct that David plays as a central striker with McKennie a bit behind, so he can make his runs,” the 2006 Italy World Cup winner continued.

“He’s very good in this role, and using him as a striker would mean losing him defensively. Spalletti has said it: he fits everywhere, he gives his contribution in defence and attack, and he’s proving that with all those goals.”

Perhaps even a striker like Marcus Thuram would help the Bianconeri.

“I don’t think Inter would sell him to a rival, and I hope Vlahovic stays at Juventus, returning to be the player he deserves in a strong team,” Zambrotta concluded.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christopher Nknuku are expected to lead the Milan attack in an away Serie A game at Pisa, but Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao are available on the bench.

It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) this evening.

Raul Albiol, Isak Vural, Daniel Denoon and Adrian Semper are injured for the home side, while Marius Marin is suspended.

Santiago Gimenez and Alexis Saelemaekers are unavailable for Milan due to injuries.

Pulisic and Leao are not fully fit. Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said on Thursday that Pulisic could only play for 15-20 minutes after recovering from bursitis.

According to various sources, including Gazzetta and Sky Sport, Leao is not fit to start either, so Allegri will confirm the attack that beat Bologna in Milan’s last Serie A game with Loftus-Cheek and Nkunku starting up front.

Milan sit second in the Serie A table, eight points below leaders Inter, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand which they’ll play at home next Wednesday against Como.

Pisa are bottom of the table, level on 15 points with Verona and have just one win this season.

Pisa vs. Milan – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.

Pisa vs. Milan – probable line-ups

Pisa (3-4-1-2): Scuffet; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bozhinov; Touré, Aebischer, Loyola, Angori; Moreo; Stojilkovic, Durosinmi.

Milan (3-5-2): Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Athekame, Fofana, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Loftus-Cheek; Nkunku.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Fabulous

Brignone astonishes in the Olympics: another golden day, bis Lollobrigida

From the Thurams to Marotta and Spalletti: all the rivalries of Inter-Juve

Milan to the assault with Nkuku, trying to scare Chivu out

Corriere dello Sport

Fantastic Brignone

The miracle of the tiger: Gold medal in the Super G, 315 days after a terrible injury

Forever Fede

Queen of Italy: Historic Arianna with Francesca

Tuttosport

Beyond faith

Legendary Brignone: Gold medal in the Super G 315 days after a shocking injury and fear

Golden Lollobrigida, fantastic bis. Silver medal for Fontana and reaches the myth. Luge bronze.

Manuel Locatelli will front the media on the eve of Juventus’ showdown with Inter, stepping in for coach Luciano Spalletti at the pre-match press conference.

According to Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, The Bianconeri captain is set to address journalists ahead of the highly anticipated clash, taking on media duties in place of his manager.

The decision is understood to be part of Juventus’ internal communication strategy, allowing Spalletti to focus fully on preparations for one of the most important fixtures of the season.

Locatelli to speak to the press for Juventus to ease pressure on Spalletti

With tensions high and the spotlight firmly on the tactical battle, the club have opted to shield their coach from the traditional pre-match obligations.

Locatelli, as club captain and a key figure in the dressing room, will instead outline Juventus’ mindset and expectations heading into the encounter.

The move underlines the midfielder’s leadership role within the squad, as Juve look to make a statement in a crucial match that could have significant implications in the Serie A title race.

Benjamin Pavard’s future remains uncertain after a difficult spell on loan at Marseille, casting doubt over whether the French club will make his move permanent.

The defender joined Marseille last summer on a loan deal that includes a €15m option to buy, a clause Inter had expected would likely be triggered.

However, Pavard has struggled to convince in Ligue 1 and has reportedly come under increasing criticism from supporters, as per reports from the Corriere dello Sport.

De Zerbi departure offers Inter one last chance to cash in on Pavard

The recent managerial change could yet offer the Frenchman a fresh opportunity to revive his season, but if his performances do not improve, Marseille may decide against activating the purchase option.

Roberto De Zerbi was removed from his post as head coach and a breath of fresh air could be just what the former Bayern defender needs.

However, if Marseille choose not to activate their option, Pavard would return to Inter in the summer – although not necessarily for long.

The Nerazzurri are not believed to have plans to reintegrate him into the squad, meaning a new solution would have to be found.

Inter could also be forced to reassess their valuation of the player if they seek a permanent transfer elsewhere. Sporting director Piero Ausilio would then be tasked with finding a buyer and resolving the situation ahead of the new campaign.

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso is set to travel to Naples for a dinner meeting with several Napoli players expected to be included in the upcoming national team squad.

According to reports from Nicolo Schira, the Azzurri boss will meet members of the Partenopei contingent ahead of the decisive play-off fixtures, with Antonio Vergara poised to receive his first senior call-up.

The youngster has been in impressive form in recent weeks and is now expected to join Alessandro Buongiorno, Alex Meret and Matteo Politano in the Italy squad.

Gattuso to meet Napoli players as Vergara anticipates first call-up

Vergara’s inclusion would mark a significant milestone in his rapid rise this season, as the youngster continues to establish himself as an important figure at club level.

Vergara earned his opportunity to make an impression at the Maradona after a series of serious injuries to the Napoli squad.

However, since his big break, he has done nothing but impress – and now is set to earn a maiden call-up to the national team.

Gattuso’s visit underlines the growing importance of Napoli’s core within the national team setup, as Italy prepare for crucial matches on the road to major tournament qualification.

Italy found out that they will face France, Belgium and Turkiye in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League, after being drawn into Group A.

The Azzurri were in pot 2 for the draw, and can feel slightly hard done by after what appears to be a difficult draw.

Italy and France have a decades-old rivalry, whilst the Azzurri have triumphed more often than not over Belgium and Turkiye.

However, all these nations are armed with players familiar with Italy – with several Serie A stars among the squads that will prepare to face Gennaro Gattuso’s side.

Who are the Serie A stars ready to face Italy in the Nations League?

France have a number of high-profile players playing in Serie A.

At Milan, Mike Maignan and Christopher Nkunku are both in contention for a place in the squad. Meanwhile, Inter & Juventus brothers Khephren and Marcus Thuram will also likely feature for Les Bleus. Former Rossoneri full-back Theo Hernandez will face many old teammates and rivals, whilst Roma’s Manu Kone is also involved in the French set-up.

Belgium have a handful of stars in Serie A. Kevin De Bruyne will likely feature after he recovers from his injury. Juventus forward Lois Openda is a regular, whilst Milan duo Alexis Saelemaekers and Koni De Winter both also feature. Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere could also potentially play against Italy in the Nations League.

Turkiye, meanwhile, have several influential players currently based in Italy. Kenan Yildiz, arguably one of the best forwards in the league, will no doubt be involved, alongside Roma wing-back Zeki Celik, Inter talisman Hakan Calhanoglu and Pisa midfielder Isak Vural.

Italy discovered their UEFA Nations League fate for the 2026-27 edition of the international tournament, with the Azzurri drawn into Group A alongside France, Belgium and Turkey.

It is a tricky draw for Gennaro Gattuso’s side, with three very competent teams standing in their way.

But how have Italy fared historically against these sides?

Italy & France old rivalry ignites

The Azzurri and France have met many times over the years, with 39 matches between the two nations.

Of course, the most famous of those meetings was the 2006 World Cup final, where Italy won on penalties after the infamous Zinedine Zidane headbutt.

France also knocked the Azzurri out of the 1998 World Cup, after a 0-0 draw resulted in a penalty shootout victory for Les Bleus.

More recently, the two teams met in the Nations League in 2024. The Azzurri won 3-1 in France in September before Didier Deschamps’ side returned the favour two months later with a 3-1 win in Milan.

Azzurri have more luck against Belgium & Turkiye

Italy have lost just four of 26 meetings with Belgium, with the most recent defeat coming in an international friendly in 2015. Italy’s last official defeat to Belgium came in Euro 1972. In the 2024 Nations League, the sides drew 2-2 in Italy before the Azzurri won 1-0 in Brussels thanks to an early goal from Sandro Tonali.

Italy’s record against Turkiye is even more impressive. Of the 14 meetings between the two sides, Italy have never lost – winning 10 times. The sides last met in an international friendly in 2024 that finished 0-0, with the last official match at the postponed Euro 2020, with a 3-0 Azzurri win in the tournament’s opening fixture.

Napoli turned down an approach from Como for rising star Antonio Vergara, with coach Antonio Conte and sporting director Giovanni Manna both blocking a potential transfer.

Vergara has enjoyed a sensational start to the year, scoring three goals in his last four appearances across three different competitions.

He found the net against Chelsea in the Champions League, Fiorentina in Serie A and most recently against Como in the Coppa Italia, despite Napoli’s quarter-final elimination.

His rapid development has strengthened Conte’s faith in the youngster, who is now viewed not merely as a squad option but as a genuine attacking asset capable of adding unpredictability to Napoli’s forward play.

Como failed in pursuit of Napoli sensation Vergara

Como sporting director Carlo Alberto Ludi confirmed his club’s long-standing interest.

“We wanted Vergara last July and even the year before,” Ludi told Kiss Kiss Napoli, via SportItalia.

“Giovanni Manna was very honest with us and said he wanted to develop him at Napoli. We have followed him for a long time and tried to sign him outright, because that is how we work.”

Meanwhile, Vergara’s agent played down talk of a contract renewal.

“There is absolutely nothing at the moment,” he said. “Antonio must only think about playing and helping Napoli reach the Champions League. Then, at the right time, President De Laurentiis will evaluate the situation.”

Italy have discovered their opponents for the UEFA Nations League group stage.

Gennaro Gattuso’s Azzurri side will face France, Belgium  in Group A

France were drawn as the Pot 1 side, before Italy were pulled out of Pot 2 by Portugal and former Real Madrid defender Pepe.

Pot 3 saw Belgium added into their group, before Turkiye were pulled out of Pot 4.

The draw took place in Brussels on Thursday evening, with Italy initially in Pot 2 of League A.

FIGC president Gabriele Gravina was present at the draw, alongside former Juventus and Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci.

Last Nations League campaign ended in quarter-final defeat to Germany, losing 5-4 on aggregate with Luciano Spalletti in charge of Italy.

Italy Nations League Draw

Nations League Group A: France, Italy, Belgium, Turkiye

Bologna have confirmed they have signed Argentine forward Santiago Castro to a contract extension, until June 2030.

On their official website, Bologna confirmed the extension with a brief statement: “Bologna FC 1909 announces that it has reached an agreement with striker Santiago Castro for a contract extension until June 30, 2030.”

The 21-year-old has been steadily improving and has eight goals in all competitions for the Rossoblu this season.

He played well in his club’s Coppa Italia quarter-final defeat to Lazio, scoring the opening goal and being a real thorn in the Biancocelesti defence.

Highly-rated Castro signs new deal with Bologna

Castro has been the topic of much transfer speculation, as so often is the case with young South American talents.

Rumours from the British tabloid press have linked Castro with the likes of Chelsea, Everton and Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Italian sources claim that Inter are among the clubs interested in Castro’s progress; strange given their surplus of talented forwards.

Regardless, Bologna see the forward as a vital part of the current squad and a player who they see as somewhat of a jewel – whether they keep him long-term or cash in in a year or two.

Fabio Capello insists the Serie A title race is far from over, warning that Inter and Juventus cannot afford to ignore the growing threat of Milan and Roma.

Speaking in his latest column with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the former coach reacted to Antonio Conte’s downbeat comments following Napoli’s recent penalty shoot-out defeat to Como.

Conte had played down his side’s Scudetto chances, pointing to a nine-point gap behind Inter and describing Napoli’s situation as problematic.

Capello, however, believes it is too early to write anyone off.

“The Italian championship is not closed,” he said. “I heard Conte’s words after the defeat and I think they were influenced by the result. There are still many games to play, with plenty of direct clashes. Calm down.”

Capello: ‘More than just Inter in Serie A title race’

While acknowledging that Inter are playing well, Capello stressed that the season still has twists to come.

He also highlighted Milan’s steady improvement under Massimiliano Allegri and suggested Roma could yet enter the conversation if they have finally solved their centre-forward issue.

“There is still a lot to do before we can declare the title race over,” Capello concluded.

Inter currently have an eight point lead at the summit of Serie A, with Milan having a game in hand in second.

Napoli are nine points behind Inter, whilst an improving Juventus have closed the gap between themselves and Conte’s side to just three points.

Roma are tied on points with Juventus and it feels highly probably that one of these five sides will lift the Scudetto in May.

Juventus’s Dusan Vlahovic is currently the only Serie A player to feature in the list of the 20 highest paid footballers in Europe’s top five leagues according to the latest information. 

Juventus’s Vlahovic is Serie A’s highest paid player

According to the latest information from transfermarkt.it, Vlahovic is currently the seventh-highest paid player across Europe’s top five leagues in terms of gross salary.

Juventus currently pay the Serbian €22.2m per year in gross salary. It is widely believed that the 26-year-old takes home a net salary of around €12m per year after tax and deductions. This equates to a weekly take home of just over €230,000 per week (net).

Only six players in Europe are currently paid higher than Vlahovic is in the final year of his Juventus contract. They are Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe, Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Real Madrdi’s Vinicius Jr., Liverpool’s Mohames Salah and Real Madrid’s David Alaba. 

Vlahovic currently earns more than the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Robert Lewandowski, Jude Bellingham, Ousmane Dembele and Bruno Fernandes. 

The next highest-paid player currently competing in Serie A is Inter’s Lautaro Martinez. With a reported gross salary of €16.67m per year at Inter, El Toro ranks as the 25th-best paid player in Europe’s top five leagues as things stand. 

Top 20 best paid players in Europe by gross salary 

1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – €31.495m per year
2. Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid)  – €31.250m per year
3. Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) – €25.000m per year 
4. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid) – €25.000m per year 
5. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) – €23.996m per year 
6. David Alaba (Real Madrid) – €22.500m per year 
7. Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus) – €22.220m per year
8. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – €21.000m per year 
9. Casemiro (Manchester United) – €20.997m per year 
10. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool) – €20.997m per year 
11. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona) – €20.830m per year 
12. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – €20.830m per year 
13. Jan Oblak (Atletico Madrid) – €20.830m per year 
14. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich) – €20.000m per year 
15. Frenkie De Jong (Barcelona) – €19.000m per year 
16. Serge Gnabry (Bayern Munich) – €18.870m per year 
17. Ousmane Dembele (PSG) – €18.180m per year 
18. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) – €17.997m per year 
19. Bernardo Silva (Manchester City) – €17.997m per year 
20. Omar Marmoush (Manchester City) – €17.697m per year 

Reports in Italy suggest that Francesco Totti is creeping ever closer to a return to his beloved Roma in a backroom role, but how much will it cost the Giallorossi to add their legendary former captain to their staff? 

According to reports from various outlets over the last week, Roma are discussing the potential return of club legend, Totti. Senior Giallorossi advisor Claudio Ranieri has recently confirmed that there have been talks: “I know the Friedkins are thinking about it, I hope Francesco can truly be useful to Roma as well, because he really is part of Roma,” he said. 

Totti is Roma’s all-time leading appearance maker with 785 outings across all competitions, and is also the club’s all-time leading goalscorer with 307. 

Totti spent 25 years in Roma’s first team and had initially moved into a backroom role after hanging up his boots in 2017. He would later resign in 2019 citing disagreements with former co-owner and chair James Pallotta. Totti claimed that he was regularly left out of the club’s decision making. 

Totti insisted that he would only return to Roma under a different ownership, which is now the case with the Fridkins at the helm. 

Totti was recently seen at the Stadio Olimpico for the first time in several years, and it has been reported that this was at the invitation of Ryan Friedkin. 

How much will Totti earn to return to Roma? 

If Totti’s return to Roma does materialise, it is believed that he will earn an annual salary in the region of €1m according to reports from Calcio e Finanza. 

What is more important for Totti, however, is the exact role that he will take on if he does return to the Stadio Olimpico. 

There have been suggestions that he could be appointed as a technical director, a hands-on role assisting sporting director Ricky Massara. In that position, Totti would be involved in transfer decisions and negotiations as well as having a close relationship with the first-team coaches and playing staff. 

However, reports on Thursday claim that Totti is prepared to take on more of a consultancy, advisory or ambassadorial position, as long as it leads to a ‘decision-making role’ in the relatively near future. 

Juventus are preparing for one of their biggest games of the season against Inter in the Derby d’Italia on Saturday evening, but Bianconeri head coach Luciano Spalletti has decided against giving a customary pre-match press conference ahead of the Serie A crunch match. 

Why will Spalletti not speak to the media before Inter vs. Juventus?

Spalletti will not address the media before the Inter vs. Juventus match in San Siro, and will instead send captain Manuel Locatelli to give the pre-match assessment at around 14.00 GMT (15.00 CET) on Friday afternoon. 

According to TMW, this is because Spalletti will have to give a mandatory pre-match press conference on Monday ahead of Juve’s Champions League play-off round tie against Galatasaray anyway. 

To ‘avoid’ having the head coach speaking to the media twice within three days, Juventus have decided to send one of their senior players to do the Serie A press conference instead. 

Thursday’s reports claim that this practice is likely to continue until the end of the season. TMW expects that the Old Lady will send a different player to speak to the media before Juventus’s following Serie A match against Como on February 21.

Juventus reportedly have a price tag in mind when it comes to a potential sale of centre-back Federico Gatti, who has attracted interest from Milan, Napoli and some clubs in the Premier League so far this season. 

Both Milan and Napoli have expressed an interest in signing Gatti from Juventus this season. The Partenopei reportedly made an enquiry over the summer, while the Rossoneri sounded out the situation during the January transfer window. 

According to Thursday’s reports from Calciomercato.com, there was even a phone call between Massimiliano Allegri and Gatti, who have worked together previously in Turin, to discuss the situation. 

How much do Juventus want for Gatti?

However, the Rossoneri management were not unanimous over a decision to sign Gatti, and so the situation was left alone in the final days of the January window. 

For now, Gatti is focused on working his way back into Luciano Spalletti’s starting XI, and will also be aiming for a spot in the Italy national team squad for the upcoming World Cup play-offs in March. Should Italy qualify, Gatti will also want to push for a spot in the final World Cup squad. 

For now, a move away from Juventus is impossible until the summer transfer window, but Thursday’s reports claim that it would take an offer in the region of €25m to convince Juventus into selling. 

Juventus paid a fee of €7.5m plus uo to €2.5m in bonuses to sign Gatti from Frosinone in 2022. 

Massimiliano Allegri has shared his thoughts ahead of Milan’s upcoming Serie A clash against Pisa and has given an update on the fitness status of some of his key players, including Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, Alexis Saelemaekers and Santiago Gimenez. 

The Rossoneri are currently on 50 points after 23 matches of the 2025-26 Serie A season. They sit in second place in the table, eight points shy but with a game in hand over the league leaders, Inter. Allegri’s side are unbeaten across their last 22 league matches. 

The Rossoneri are also fresh off an encouraging 3-0 victory away against Bologna last time out in Serie A, which came in the absence of Pulisic and Saelemaekers, out of the squad through injury, and Leo, who remained an unused substitute. 

Allegri on Pisa vs. Milan, Leao, Pulisic and refereeing controversy

“At the moment, Pisa are fighting to stay in Serie A, they’re a physical team and create a lot at home. They’ve lost, but have kept games alive, we will have to be very careful and have to be ready for everything,” Allegri said at the beginning of his pre-match press conference on Thursday.  

“Tomorrow’s is one of four games that will lead us into the derby, it will be very important all round. We only got two points against Pisa, Cremonese and Parma during the first half of the season.” 

Allegri went on to give injury and fitness updates on some of his key Rossoneri players, beginning with Christian Pulisic, who is only expected to be available off the substitutes bench this weekend. 

“Pulisic will be available. He trained with the team for the first time yesterday but he only has 15-20 minutes in his legs. Leao is doing much better, Gimenez even better still. He will be available in around a month. 

“Saelemaekers is still out, but he’s also doing much better, we’ll see if he’s available for Como.” 

Allegri was also asked whether Rafael Leao could potentially return to the starting line-up against Pisa. He replied: “I have to see in the final training session today and will then decide on the formation, because we also have three close games afterwards. The most important match is still tomorrow’s, though.” 

And on Christopher Nkunuku, who has responded to a slow start in Serie A with five goals in his last six league outings, Allegri said: “I wouldn’t talk about a ‘rebirth’, but about adaptation. He’s a sensitive guy with extraordinary technique. I jokingly told him once: ‘Things go better when you laugh a little more’. Fortunately, he’s doing well. 

“I’m also happy for Loftus-Cheek and Fofana. Being able to rely on all the players is important at the moment, those who start from the first minute and those who take over. Together, we have a clear goal to achieve, to get to the Champions League.” 

Allegri has said in practically every one of his pre-match press conferences this season that the team’s goal is to earn Champions League qualification. He was asked once again on Thursday whether he has any thoughts about a potential Scudetto fight with Inter. 

“Today, we’re in a good position in the table, but it’s not enough,” he replied. “You don’t even get to the Conference League with 50 points. The closer we get to the Champions League mark, the better we’ll be doing in the standings. That’s why these games before the derby are so important.” 

And on Milan’s season so far, Allegri said: “We’ve had a good season so far. We started by trying to get back into the Champions League, and at the moment we’re in the top four. That’s the goal. 

“We could have done better in the Coppa Italia, which is our big regret. We have to stay focussed on our goal, aware that Inter, as we’ve known from the beginning, are a very strong team. Napoli are also strong, Juve are coming back up. It won’t be easy to finish in the top four.”

And on the recent refereeing controversies in Serie A, Allegri added: “There were discussions about referees 50 years ago as well. Now we have VAR, which helps a lot. It’s an important tool, they’re working to improve it further. 

“The most important thing about VAR is objectivity. They have to improve that 100% where possible. Everything else is subjective and so there will always be controversy. If you get something given in your favour, you shut up. If something goes against you, you get wound up. It can only improve with objectivity, not subjectivity.”

Journalist Federica Zille has come to the defence of Bianconeri head coach Luciano Spalletti, who kissed her live on TV while trying to make his point during a post-match interview after Juventus’s recent 2-2 draw against Lazio in Serie A. 

Why did Spalletti kiss a reporter after Juventus 2-2 Lazio? 

During the 2-2 draw between Juventus and Lazio, Teun Koopmeiners saw his opening goal ruled out by VAR due to Khephren Thuram standing in an offside position. There was also, however, an apparent foul on Juve’s Juan Cabal by Biancocelesti defender Mario Gila in the build-up, which refereeing analyst Luca Marelli argued should have been a penalty. 

This led Spalletti to debate the technicalities of contact in the penalty area during his post-match interview after full-time. 

“The referee can interpret it the way he wants, because the defender is imprudent when going into that sliding tackle, so he takes a risk. I am not here to say if it is a penalty or not. He could’ve run back onto the ball, but I would take a wider view,” Spalletti said.

“Everyone now goes to protest about the rules, but there is always an interpretation. The pressure of a step on foot, handball that nobody sees in the stadium but they zoom in with the camera, it is all open to interpretation. You cannot generalise that every contact is a penalty.”

Spalletti then turned back to an incident in a previous game against Atalanta when a penalty was awarded for handball that even Ederson, who had made the cross, hadn’t noticed.

“I never talked about referees when decisions went against me or in favour. In the game against Atalanta the VAR called the referee to view the handball a minute and a half later, when nobody including Raffaele Palladino who was right next to me on the touchline, had any idea what this was even for.

“The rules are too rigid right now, it is the rigidity that I find to be the problem. If nobody even realises it hit a hand, who is damaged by that? The analysts keep saying ‘there was contact,’ but that doesn’t mean anything, does it? May I kiss you, here, this is contact,” said Spalletti when giving the female interviewer, Zille, a peck on the cheek.

Luciano Spalletti ha stupito tutti quando dopo la partita Juve-Lazio ha dato un bacio a sorpresa alla giornalista di Dazn Federica Zille. Il tecnico bianconero voleva mettere a tema l’entità dei contatti in occasione dei rigori. Ha chiesto alla sua intervistatrice se poteva… pic.twitter.com/nTjFhdyWZE

— La Stampa (@LaStampa) February 9, 2026

“It’s about context, contact is not the same thing as impact. There will always be difficulty if there are rules where every touch of the hand is a penalty, every step on foot is a penalty. This is what VAR is for, you can evaluate the context in its totality.

“If we stick to the rules, then that is definitely a penalty, because Gila goes into a sliding tackle and takes responsibility for that gesture when he doesn’t get the ball.”

Zille defends Spalletti after TV kiss: ‘Exaggerated’

Zille, who was on duty with DAZN for the Juventus-Lazio match, has since come out to defend Spalletti, following some accusations of improper behaviour during his post-match interview. 

Speaking to FantacalcioTV (via corriere.it), Zille said: “There was no kind of malice in Spalletti’s gesture. He wanted to exemplify what he was saying, that there is a difference between contact and impact. 

“I know Spalletti. Many say ‘he wouldn’t have done that had it been a man’. No, he probably would have touched or nudged a man to say that it was just contact and not a foul.

“I wouldn’t like for people to talk about malice or a lack of respect in this situation, for me as a woman, as a journalist or as a professional. 

“I’ve read comments which have mentioned the word ‘harassment’. I’ve found that to be really exaggerated, perhaps even incorrect because harassment is a serious topic. And as a woman, I feel strongly about this issue, but that’s all the more reason to have clarity of mind and give the right balance to this sort of thing.” 

Premier League side AFC Bournemouth have officially announced the signing of Alex Jimenez on a permanent transfer from Milan. 

The Spaniard has spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Bournemouth in a deal that included an option to buy, which eventually became an obligation to buy. Having triggered the obligation to buy, Jimenez has now put pen to paper on a contract that runs until 2031 on the English south coast. 

It is believed that Bournemouth triggered their option to buy clause by starting or playing Jimenez for at least 45 minutes in 50% of their matches this season. 

As things stand after 24 rounds of Premier League fixtures, Jimenez has played for 45 minutes or more in 19 league matches (50% of Bournemouth’s 38 scheduled games). He also played for 49 minutes in Bournemouth’s only FA Cup appearance of the season. Bournemouth were eliminated from the EFL Cup before Jimenez signed in August, and are not involved in any European competition this season. 

Milan already received a fee of €2m for Jimenez’s season-long loan deal to Bournemouth, and the obligation to buy clause was set at €19.5m plus up to €5.5m in bonuses. 

Milan will not be entitled to the entire cut of that fee, though, as Jimenez’s former club, Real Madrid are owed a 50% sell-on fee. 

That means that Milan will see €9.75m from Jimenez’s permanent transfer to Bournemouth, not including bonuses and not including the €2m loan fee they have already received. 

What Bournemouth said after signing Jimenez from Milan 

“AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Alex Jiménez has completed a permanent move to the club, having met the appearance threshold required to activate the transfer clause following an initial loan,” a statement on the club website read. 

“The 20-year-old, who joined the Cherries ahead of the current season, has now featured in more than half of the club’s competitive fixtures, triggering the terms that secure his future until 2031 on the south coast.

“Arriving from AC Milan having come through the prestigious academy at Real Madrid, Jiménez has made a strong impression during his time at the Vitality Stadium, becoming a regular presence and gaining recognition weekly.

“The full-back won the club’s Player of the Month award for December, while also winning Sky Sports’ Man of the Match accolade in the 1-1 draw with Brighton just last month.

“Having made 22 appearances in all competitions, with his maiden Premier League goal coming against Liverpool, Jiménez has made quite the impression in red and black.”

The Corriere dello Sport newspaper claims that only three Juventus players would make it into Cristian Chivu’s starting XI at Inter, but who would make your combined team heading into Saturday’s Derby d’Italia in San Siro? 

The Derby d’Italia between Inter and Juventus is just around the corner, scheduled for 19.45 GMT on Saturday evening in Serie A. 

The Nerazzurri top the table after 24 matches of the 2025-26 season and are currently eight points clear of their closest competitors, Milan. Chivu’s side are currently 12 points ahead of Juventus ahead of Saturday’s derby. 

Inter have won five games in a row in Serie A and are unbeaten across their last 12 league fixtures, with their most recent defeat coming against Milan in the Derby della Madonnina on November 23. 

Juventus have picked up seven points from their last three matches in the Italian top flight. The Bianconeri have six wins, two draws and two losses to their name from their last 10 outings in the league. 

With a hotly-anticipated derby fast approaching, debates have started to arise over which players would make it into a combined starting XI made up of Inter and Juventus players. 

Corriere dello Sport writes on Thursday’s front page that only three Juventus players would make it into Inter’s strongest XI: Centre-back Gleison Bremer, midfielder Khephren Thuram and attacker Kenan Yildiz. 

Thursday’s article suggests that Bremer would slot into a back three alongside Inter’s Manuel Akanji and Alessandro Bastoni. Pierre Kalulu, Lloyd Kelly, Federico Gatti, Yann Bisseck, Stefan De Vrij and Francesco Acerbi are the main alternative options. 

Corriere dello Sport claims that Inter wins the battle of the wing-backs, and that both Denzel Dumfries and Federico Dimarco would start over the likes of Andrea Cambiaso, Juan Cabal or Emil Holm. 

There is room for debate in midfield. Corriere dello Sport picked a trio of Nicolo Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Khephren Thuram, but left out the likes of Manuel Locatelli, Weston McKennie, Teun Koopmeiners Piotr Zielinski, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Petar Sucic. 

There is also strength in depth in the attacking options: It has been suggested that Lautaro Martinez and Kenan Yildiz are the strongest attackers that Inter and Juventus have to offer, but that means that Marcus Thuram, Pio Esposito, Dusan Vlahovic, Jonathan David and Francisco Conceicao missing out as well. 

Combined Inter and Juventus XI 

Sommer; Akanji, Bremer, Bastoni; Dumfries, Barella, Calhanoglu, K.Thuram, Dimarco; L.Martinez, Yildiz.

Let us know who you think would start in a combined Inter and Juventus XI in the comments below.

Lazio booked their spot in the Coppa Italia semi-finals thanks to a victory on penalties against Bologna on Wednesday evening, which means that the final four is now complete for the 2025-26 season. Here is everything you need to know about the upcoming semi-finals. 

Who will Inter, Lazio, Atalanta and Como face in the Coppa Italia semi-finals? 

Lazio’s victory on Wednesday evening means that they will go on to face Atalanta over two legs of the Coppa Italia semi-final. 

That leaves Inter and Como facing each other in the other semi-final. 

The Biancocelesti qualified thanks to a 5-2 penalty shootout victory over reigning Coppa Italia champions Bologna at the Dall’Ara on Wednesday night. The game had finished 1-1 after 90 minutes with goals from Santiago Castro and Tijjani Noslin. 

Atalanta booked their spot in the semi-finals thanks to a responding 3-0 victory at home against Juventus last weekend: Gianluca Scamacca, Kamaldeen Sulemana and Mario Pasalic came up with the goals on that occasion. 

Inter also booked their spot in the final four last weekend thanks to a 2-1 victory against Torino in San Siro with a heavily-rotated starting XI. Ange-Yoan Bonny and Andy Diouf’s goals were enough to see off a second-half consolation goal from Sandro Kulenovic. 

Como also required penalties to see off Napoli in their quarter-final earlier this week. Goals from Martin Baturina and Antonio Vergara saw the game end level at 1-1 before a 7-6 victory in favour of Cesc Fabregas’s side in the resulting shoot-out. 

When will the Coppa Italia semi-finals take place? 

The exact times and dates of the Coppa Italia are still to be confirmed. 

The semi-final slots are currently set to take place during the midweek slots between March 3 and March 5, and between April 21 and April 23.

The 2026 Coppa Italia final is currently scheduled for May 13, 2026.

The draw for the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League league phase will take place on Thursday evening. Here is a look at the 12 potential opponents that Italy could come up against this coming campaign. 

The Nations League draw is scheduled to get underway at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET) in Brussels. Italy will be competing in Nations League A in 2026-27, the highest level of the competition. 

16 teams will compete in League A and they will be divided into four groups of four teams. Each team will play home and away against each of the other three nations in their group.

The teams that finish in the top two of these groups will progress to the Nations League quarter-finals, and the winners of those ties will progress to the final tournament next June (2027). 

The teams that finish bottom of their groups will be relegated to League B for the next Nations League campaign.

Who could Italy face in the Nations League league phase?

Italy are among the second seeds (Pot 2) in League A, along with the Netherlands, Denmark and Croatia. Gennaro Gattuso’s side will be drawn against one team each from Pot 1, Pot 3 and Pot 4. 

Portugal, Spain, France and Germany, the semi-finalists from the 2024-25 edition of the Nations League, are in Pot 1. 

England, Norway, Belgium and Serbia are the sides in Pot 3. 

Wales, Czechia, Greece and Türkiye are the sides in Pot 4. 

2026-27 Nations League draw: Pots in full 

League A 

Pot 1: Portugal, Spain, France, Germany

Pot 2: Netherlands, Italy, Denmark, Croatia

Pot 3: England, Norway, Serbia, Belgium

Pot 4: Wales, Czechia, Greece, Türkiye 

League B

Pot 1: Scotland, Hungary, Poland, Israel

Pot 2: Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Austria, Ukraine

Pot 3: Slovenia, Georgia, Republic of Ireland, Romania

Pot 4: Sweden, North Macedonia, Northern Ireland, Kosovo

League C 

Pot 1: Iceland, Albania, Montenegro, Kazakhstan

Pot 2: Finland, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Armenia

Pot 3: Belarus, Faroe Islands, Cyprus, Estonia

Pot 4: Moldova, San Marino, Luxembourg or Malta, Latvia or Gibraltar

League D 

Pot 1: Azerbaijan, Lithuania, Luxembourg or Malta, Latvia or Gibraltar

Pot 2: Liechtenstein, Andorra

The draw for the league phase of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League will take place later this evening: Here is everything you need to know about the draw, how it works, the teams competing and the sides that Italy could come up against. 

When is the 2026-27 Nations League draw?

The UEFA Nations League league phase draw will take place at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET) on Thursday, February 12. The draw will be conducted from Brussels. 

Which league will Italy be in?

Italy are one of 16 nations competing in League A in 2026-27, the highest level in the competition. 

The nations competing in League A in 2026-27 are as follows: Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, Serbia, Belgium, England, Norway, Wales, Czechia, Greece, Türkiye.

How does the draw work?

During Thursday’s draw, the 16 nations competing in League A, which includes Italy, will be seeded into four pots containing four teams each. (There will be separate draws for League B, League C and League D). 

These pots are based on rankings from the previous (2024-25) edition of the Nations League. 

The 16 teams in League A will be drawn into four groups of four, containing one team each from Pot 1, Pot 2, Pot 3 and Pot 4. This will decide the fixture list for the 2026-27 Nations League league phase. 

Italy finished the last edition of the Nations League in second place of League A’s Group B, which means that they will be one of the four teams in Pot 2 in the 2026-27 Nations League draw. 

Italy will be in Pot 2 along with the Netherlands, Denmark and Croatia. These sides will avoid playing against each other in the Nations League league phase. 

Which teams could Italy face?

Italy will face one team each from the following: 

Pot 1: Portugal, Spain, France, or Germany

Pot 3: England, Norway, Belgium, or Serbia

Pot 4: Wales, Czechia, Greece, or Türkiye

How does the Nations League league phase work?

In Nations Leagues A, B and C, each team will play six matches during the league phase: At home and away against each of the other three teams in their group. 

In League A, the teams that finish the groups in first and second place will progress to the quarter-finals. The winners of those ties will then go on to compete in the final tournament. 

In Leagues B, C and D, teams that finish top of their group will be promoted for the following Nations League campaign, and teams that finish bottom in Leagues A, B and C will be relegated to a lower division. 

When do the 2026-27 Nations League matches take place?

As for the games themselves, there will be league phase matches played during the next September, October and November international breaks, a set of quarter-finals in March 2027 and a final tournament in June 2027.  

Matchday 1: September 24 – September 26, 2026

Matchday 2: September 27 – September 29, 2026

Matchday 3: September 30 – October 3, 2026

Matchday 4: October 4 – October 6, 2026

Matchday 5: November 12 – November 14, 2026

Matchday 6: November 15 – November 17, 2026

League A quarter-finals: March 25 – March 30, 2027

Final tournament: June 9 – June 13, 2027

When do Italy play next? 

Before the 2026-27 Nations League campaign gets underway in September, there is the small matter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Italy have not yet secured their spot at the final tournament in North America, and must qualify through the league phase if they are to avoid missing out on a third consecutive World Cup. 

That means that Italy will next be in action against Northern Ireland in a World Cup play-off semi-final in Bergamo on March 26, 2026. 

Should Italy win against Northern Ireland, they will then progress to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in a World Cup play-off final on March 31: A one-match decider for a spot at the final tournament.

La Gazzetta dello Sport 

The Fantastic 4 

Two golds in the luge: Italian pairs triumph

Voetter-Oberhofer (women’s doubles) and Rieder-Kainzwalder (men’s). History made on the pistes of Cortina. A dream games: Third in the medals table with 13 podiums

Ariana (and noe only) for the record 

From skis to skates, we can make it even more today 

Fofana, Lollobrigida, Goggia, Sighel: Here come the stars again 

Lazio in semi-finals on penalties, Bologna fall from their throne 

Coppa Italia: Sarri gets Atalanta 

Chivu advises Inter: Don’t lose your head

Juve in San Siro on Saturday

Corriere dello Sport 

Juve, 3 for Inter 

Chivu dominantes in 8 positions. Only Bremer, Yildiz and Thuram would also be starters under Cris

Derby confrontations 

12 points difference in the table and a clear gap in quality, but Spalletti is looking to turn the tide on Saturday 

Referee chosen: La Penna 

Sliding into gold 

Another fantastic day at the Olympics. Two historic gold medals for Italy in the luge

Voetter and Oberhofer dominate the women’s doubles, Rieder and Kainzwald surprise everyone in the men’s competition. Italy now in third place in the medals table with 13 

Sarri, celebrating on penalties 

Coppa Italia: Lazio in the semi-finals, Bologna eliminated 

Decisive errors from Ferguson and Orsolini: Finishes 5-2 (1-1 after 90’ after goals from Castro and Noslin). The Biancocelesti will take on Palladino’s Atalanta. Brutal injury for Pedro: tests in hospital 

Napoli, McTomina pushes for Roma 

The Champions League race 

Conte in the lead: 14 games to secure qualification 

Nations League: Italy risk Norway 

Draw at 17.00 

The Azzurri in the second tier. England also to be avoided 

Tuttosport 

Spectacular golds! 

Madness in the luge: Triumphs in the men’s and women’s doubles. Celebrations with Mattarella in Cortina

Also dreaming with Goggia, Brignone, Fontana and Lollobrigida 

First the pairing of Voetter-Oberhofer, then Rieder and Kainzwaldner with a memorable comeback: It’s an historic double achievement. Tonight we try again in the mixed relay. Italy flying with four goals and now up to third place in the medals table: The President applauds

The venom of Lucio 

Inter-Juve on Saturday 

Spalletti, two seasons in Nerazzurro and an end full of tension and insults 

Left alone to deal with the Icardi case, brought the team to the Champions League, then Conte was called in in his place. Time has softened the anger, but the will for revenge remains. Interview with Felipe Melo, former Inter player now at Galatasaray: ‘I support the Nerazzurri, but looking forward to the Bianconeri in the Champions League draw. I’ve made peace with Chiellini

Toro: Juric divides the fans 

Hushes of a possible return for the Croatian ignite and divide the Granata fanbase. The background: Cairo has already thought about him for post-Vanoli

Lazio on penalties, semi-final with Atalanta. Bye Bologna 

Coppa Italia: Errors from Ferguson and Orsolini 

Conte, insults to the referee: A referral? AdL reflects 

247 million spent, but Napoli flop 

Lazio beat Bologna 4-1 on penalties this evening, after their Coppa Italia quarter-final tie finished 1-1 at full-time.

Football Italia’s Player of the Match was Tijjani Noslin, despite impressive performances from Kenneth Taylor and Bologna striker Santiago Castro.

You can relive all the action, as it happened, on our Live Blog.

Coppa Italia – Bologna 1-1 Lazio – Player Ratings

Bologna: Skorupski 6; Zortea 6.5, Vitik 6.5, Lucumi 6 (Helland N/A), Miranda 6; Moro 7 (Freuler 6), Ferguson 6; Orsolini 7, Odgaard 5.5 (Sohm 6), Cambiaghi 7 (Bernardeschi 6); Castro 7.5 (Dallinga 6)

Best Bologna player: Santiago Castro – Not only did he score Bologna’s only goal but looked a constant menace in and amongst the Lazio back line. In the first half especially, he was a real threat and showed signs of great promise for the future.

Lowest Bologna rating: Jens Odgaard – Did not get much right tonight and struggled to find space in Lazio’s deep midfield line. Was taken off with twenty minutes to go after a quiet evening.

Coach: Vincenzo Italiano 5.5 – Things are not going his way at the moment as the pressure mounts after what can only be described as a dismal run of recent form. He got it all right in the first half but seemed unable to adjust to Lazio’s improved momentum in the second half.

Lazio: Provedel 6.5; Marusic 6, Gila 6.5, Romagnoli 6.5, Pellegrini 6 (Tavares 5.5); Dele-Bashiru 6.5, Rovella 6 (Cataldi 6), Taylor 7; Pedro 7 (Noslin 7.5), Maldini 6 (Dia 5.5), Isaksen 6.5 (Cancellieri N/A)

Best Lazio Player: Tijjani Noslin – The Dutchman’s introduction really unsettled Bologna, who were barely able to cope with Pedro. The runs in between lines caught the hosts out and he found himself practically unmarked in the six yard box to score the equaliser and help send his side into the Coppa Italia semi-finals.

Lowest Lazio rating: Nuno Tavares – Feels a bit harsh for a player who only played ten minutes, scored his penalty in the shoot-out but he did feel like a bull in a china shop after his introduction. Was booked for a reckless challenge and does not feel like the kind of man you want to rely on to hold on to your defensive stability. That being said, Tavares was hardly awful and the most of his teammates were only marginally better.

Coach: Maurizio Sarri 7 – No matter what obstacles get thrown in Sarri’s way, he manages to overcome them. Pedro, who had probably been Lazio’s best player before his injury, gets taken off – Sarri brings Noslin on, tweaks the dynamics in the front line with Maldini and Lazio are back in the game before they know it. Surprisingly flexible performance from a coach known for his rigidity.

Lazio may have emerged victors this evening with a penalty shootout victory against Bologna, but it is not all sunshine and rainbows for the Biancocelesti after they suffered another concerning injury.

Experienced forward Pedro started the match on the wing, and offered some promising glimpses in the early stages of the match.

However, with just a few minutes left of the first half, the Spaniard suffered a nasty injury and had to be taken off.

Pedro in pain as Lazio progress past Bologna on penalties

The stretcher was called onto the pitch but the former Barcelona man refused, only to eventually hop on the stretcher once he was off the pitch.

The Lazio man looked in a serious amount of pain and given his age, this could be a costly blow for an already-thin Lazio squad.

Maurizio Sarri will be hoping that the injury is not as bad as it initially looked.

Tijjani Noslin came on for Pedro in the first half and, if every cloud has a silver lining, helped shift the momentum in the game and scored Lazio’s equaliser.

Bologna and Lazio had to go all the way to penalties to settle their Coppa Italia quarter-final tie tonight after a 1-1 draw in the ninety minutes, with the Biancocelesti holding their nerve to win 4-1 in the shootout.

Santiago Castro opened the scoring for Bologna before Tijjani Noslin equalised for the visitors.

It was a must-win game for both sides, who currently view Coppa Italia success as the easiest route into European football next season.

You can follow all the action, as it happened, on our Live Blog.

Bologna came into the game as holders, winning the cup last season, whilst Lazio have struggled with injuries and a transfer embargo last summer that severely hindered head coach Maurizio Sarri’s return to the club.

The first half started cagey as expected, neither team willing to take too many risks. Bologna looked more threatening in the early stages, with more of the ball in Lazio’s third, but the Biancocelesti stayed defensively resilient.

After giving away a clumsy corner around the half-hour mark, Moro whipped in a low corner; Santiago Castro diving to angle the ball past Provedel in the Lazio net.

The last 15 minutes of the first half saw Bologna keep Lazio relatively on a leash, with matters going from bad to worse for Sarri when experienced forward Pedro had to be taken off due to a nasty injury.

Bologna 1-1 Lazio – Noslin changes the game for Lazio

Tijjani Noslin took his place, in a move that ended up benefitting Lazio greatly.

Noslin’s introduction opened up a lot of space for the Biancocelesti in the second half, with his pace immediately throwing off the Bologna defence.

After a nice run from Dele-Bashiru on the right wing, the Nigerian squared a simple ball to Noslin to fire home and tie the game up.

Lazio seemed to gain confidence from the goal, with a lot more forward momentum compared to their rather stagnant first half.

In the final twenty minutes of normal time, the game grew sluggish – despite substitutions from both coaches to inject some pace into the match.

Danilo Cataldi went close with a shot from the edge of the box but the fouls flying in left, right and centre meant that the rest of regulation time played out in a very stop-start manner.

With the score level at the end of the 90 minutes, the tie went to a penalty shootout.

Lazio had no trouble converting their penalties but Provedel made two good saves and Orsolini drove his penalty wide to give the visitors the win.

Lazio will now face Atalanta in the semi-final.

Former England and Arsenal legend David Seaman has criticised modern goalkeeping celebrations, singling out Gianluigi Donnarumma for what he feels are exaggerated reactions to routine saves.

Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast with Adebayo Akinfenwa, via Goal, the ex-Arsenal and England goalkeeper said he is not a fan of keepers celebrating every stop, even when the effort does not warrant it.

“The ones that really celebrate shots… Donnarumma, who’s one of my favourites at the moment, was doing some massive celebrations after some half-decent saves,” Seaman said.

“When they do that, I’m like: ‘Come on, you’re better than that.’

Seaman annoyed with Donnarumma celebration

Donnarumma signed for Manchester City in the summer after being frozen out of PSG, with the Ligue 1 giants signing Lucas Chevalier to replace him.

“When I see goalkeepers who’ve just signed for a club and they’re giving it all that after a save, and it’s not even a really good one, I think: ‘What are you doing? Celebrate when it really means something.’ That really annoys me.”

Seaman also discussed the evolution of the position and gave his thoughts on current David Raya, who is playing a key role as Arsenal chase Premier League success.

The former England No.1 suggested that while modern keepers are more involved with the ball at their feet, the fundamentals of the role, positioning, decision-making and composure, remain just as important as ever.

Bologna host Lazio at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara this evening in the final Coppa Italia quarter-final, as both sides fight for a place in the semis.

Bologna come into the game off the back of back-to-back defeats at home – with a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Milan followed by the weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Parma.

For a Bologna side who started the season strongly, fatigue has begun to set in – especially given their participation in multiple tournaments – domestically and abroad.

You can follow all the action, as it happens, on our Live Blog.

Lazio, meanwhile, seem to remain at the eye of the storm. Chaos on and off the field has led to a dramatic season for the Biancocelesti but head coach Maurizio Sarri has instilled a sense of calm that has seen the Biancocelesti eke out important results.

At the weekend, they were unlucky to draw 2-2 at Juventus, leading the game by a two goal cushion before a late Bianconeri comeback. Sarri’s side have lost just two of their last twelve games, yet with six draws, they find themselves somewhat off the pace in the race for European football.

For both sides, in fact, winning Coppa Italia would seem to be the most likely route to participating in Europe next season, so there is a lot on the line tonight.

Coppa Italia | Bologna vs Lazio – Official Lineups

Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Zortea; Vitik, Lucumi, Miranda; Moro, Ferguson; Orsolini, Odgaard, Cambiaghi; Castro

Lazio (4-3-3): Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Dele-Bashiru, Rovella, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Pedro.

11-02-2026 20:00

1/4 Final

Renato Dall'Ara Stadium

Bologna

Lazio

1 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

		9'		Mario Gila
Santiago Castro (Assist: Nikola Moro)		30'

2nd half

Santiago Castro		47'
		48'		Tijjani Noslin (Assist: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru)
Juan Miranda		74'
		86'		Nuno Tavares
Martin Vitik		90+1'

Penalty shootout

	Event
Lewis Ferguson
Thijs Dallinga
Riccardo Orsolini

Event
	Nuno Tavares
	Boulaye Dia
	Adam Marusic
	Kenneth Taylor

Match statistic

49

Possession %

51

13

Total shots

5

2

Shots on target

2

6

Shots off target

3

5

Blocked shots

5

Corners

2

1

Offsides

1

17

Fouls

12

Bologna

Lazio

Starting lineups

1

Lukasz Skorupski

Goalkeeper

26

Jhon Lucumí

Defender

80'

33

Juan Miranda

Defender

41

Martin Vitik

Defender

20

Nadir Zortea

Defender

19

Lewis Ferguson

Midfielder

6

Nikola Moro

Midfielder

61'

21

Jens Odgaard

Attacker

70'

28

Nicolò Cambiaghi

Attacker

70'

7

Riccardo Orsolini

Attacker

9

Santiago Castro

Attacker

80'

94

Ivan Provedel

Goalkeeper

77

Adam Marusic

Defender

13

Alessio Romagnoli

Defender

3

Luca Pellegrini

Defender

80'

34

Mario Gila

Defender

Daniel Maldini

Midfielder

61'

7

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Midfielder

Kenneth Taylor

Midfielder

6

Nicolò Rovella

Midfielder

61'

18

Gustav Isaksen

Attacker

80'

9

Pedro

Attacker

45'

Substitutes

4

Tommaso Pobega

Midfielder

16

Nicolò Casale

Defender

13

Federico Ravaglia

Goalkeeper

João Mário

Defender

30

Benja Domínguez

Attacker

25

Massimo Pessina

Goalkeeper

11

Jonathan Rowe

Midfielder

8

Remo Freuler

Midfielder

61'

10

Federico Bernardeschi

Attacker

70'

Simon Sohm

Midfielder

70'

24

Thijs Dallinga

Attacker

80'

Eivind Helland

Defender

80'

26

Toma Basic

Midfielder

4

Patric

Defender

23

Elseid Hysaj

Defender

55

Alessio Furlanetto

Goalkeeper

21

Reda Belahyane

Midfielder

Edoardo Motta

Goalkeeper

Petar Ratkov

Attacker

25

Oliver Provstgaard

Defender

Adrian Przyborek

Attacker

14

Tijjani Noslin

Attacker

45'

32

Danilo Cataldi

Midfielder

61'

19

Boulaye Dia

Attacker

61'

22

Matteo Cancellieri

Attacker

80'

17

Nuno Tavares

Defender

80'

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Mario Balotelli scored his first goal since 2024 when he found the back of the net last Friday for his new club Al-Ittifaq.

The UAE First Division club signed the Italian journeyman in January, after his contract expired with Genoa at the end of last season.

Al-Ittifaq have been struggling so far this season but the Italian scored the second of three goals as the team won 3-1 away at Gulf United.

The club will be hoping that the 35-year-old will score more as they hope to avoid relegation this season.

Watch: Balotelli scores first goal for new club Al-Ittifaq

Roberto De Zerbi has left his position as head coach of Olympique de Marseille, but this is not expected to change the transfer agreement between the Ligue 1 side and Juventus for USA international Timothy Weah. 

Will Marseille still sign Weah from Juventus after De Zerbi sacking?

Inter and Juventus both have players out on loan at Marseille this season: The Nerazzurri sent Benjamin Pavard to the Stade Velodrom at the end of the window, at the same time that they brought in Manuel Akanji from Manchester City, while Weah had joined from Juventus a few weeks earlier. 

The deal for Pavard was made up of a season-long loan deal for €2.5m and an option to buy for an additional €15m, however, recent reports in France and Italy claim that the Frenchman is increasingly likely to return to Inter at the end of the season. 

This is not the case for Weah, however, whose loan deal to Marseille includes a potential obligation to buy. According to Calciomercato.com, Marseille will trigger that obligation to buy once they secure mathematical safety in Ligue 1 this season. 

Marseille are currently in fourth place in the Ligue 1 table, 25 points clear of the relegation zone with 13 games of the season left to play. 

It is a case of when, rather than if Marseille trigger their obligation to buy. Once that happens, Juventus will be entitled to a fee of €15.4m plus up to €4.1m in add-ons. The Bianconeri have already received €1m for Weah’s season-long loan deal.

Gian Piero Gasperini is expected to have Paulo Dybala back at his disposal when Roma take on Napoli in Serie A over the weekend, and there is also positive news regarding January signing Robinio Vaz according to Wednesday’s reports. 

Dybala and Robinio Vaz fighting to be fit for Napoli vs. Roma

Dybala has missed Roma’s last two Serie A matches due to a knee issue, but returned to training on Wednesday and is now expected to compete for a spot in the team to take on Napoli at the Stadio Maradona on Sunday evening, potentially as a starter. 

Robinio Vaz was also partially involved in Wednesday’s training session at Trigoria. The 18-year-old joined the Giallorossi in a €25m deal during the January transfer window, but has spent the last week nursing a soleus injury after picking up an injury three substitute appearances into his Roma career. 

According to Corriere dello Sport, Matias Soule and Mario Hermoso trained on personalised programmes on Wednesday. The former has been struggling with a bit of discomfort around his pubis, while the Spaniard has been dealing with a minor impact injury to his foot. 

Manu Kone, Stephan El Shaarawy, Evan Ferguson and Artem Dovbyk continued to work individually on Wednesday.

Juventus are close to triggering the obligation to buy clause in the contract of forward Lois Openda, but reports on Wednesday claim that the Bianconeri are already considering plans for the Belgian’s exit in the summer. 

Terms of the Juventus-Openda obligation to buy revealed

Openda joined Juventus towards the end of the summer transfer window, joining on loan for a fee of €3.3m plus up to €800,000 in bonuses in a deal that also includes an obligation to buy if certain ‘sporting conditions’ are met. 

According to reports from Calciomercato.com, Juventus will be obliged to make Openda’s move permanent in the event that they finish the Serie A season in 10th place or above.

Though there are still 14 games of the 2025-26 campaign left to play, the feeling is that Juventus, currently in fourth on 46 points, are not at any immediate risk of finishing in 11th or lower. They already have a 17-point buffer between themselves and the bottom half of the Serie A table. 

In the event that Juventus do finish in 10th or above, they will be obliged to pay a fee of €40.6m plus bonuses of up to €1.7m to sign Openda on a permanent basis. 

However, according to reports from Calciomercato, Juventus will look to sell Openda during the next summer transfer window. The Belgian is on two goals from 31 appearances across all competitions this campaign, and there are concerns that his profile does not fit Luciano Spalletti’s current set-up. 

He is not considered an out-and-out centre-forward, and doesn’t quite fit into one of the supporting roles in attack typically occupied by Kenan Yildiz, Fabio Miretti, Weston McKennie or Francisco Conceicao. 

As per Calciomercato, Juventus might have looked into the possibility of moving Openda on during the January transfer window, but this was impossible given that he had already played for two different clubs in Juventus and RB Leipzig in 2025-26, and would have therefore been ineligible to play for another team this season. 

Selling Openda this summer while avoiding a capital loss remains a difficult task, however. 

If the Old Lady were to sell Openda this summer and avoid a capital loss, they would need to find a buyer willing to match the €40.6m obligation to buy fee. Moving forwards, a fee in the region of €30m would be required to avoid a capital loss in the summer of 2027, and €20m in the summer of 2028. 

As per Calciomercato, it is unlikely that another team steps forwards with a €40m offer this coming summer. A slightly more feasible scenario is that Openda puts in a slightly more convincing season in 2026-27, leading to a €30m move away from the club in the summer of 2027. 

Wednesday’s reports confirm that Denzel Dumfries has finally returned to training with Inter, just a few days out from the highly-anticipated Derby d’Italia against rivals Juventus. 

Dumfries back in Inter training ahead of Juventus clash

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Dumfries was partially involved in Inter’s training session on Wednesday, just a few days shy of the Juventus match, which kicks off at 19.45 GMT on Saturday evening. 

The Dutchman has not featured for the Nerazzurri since coming off midway through a 2-0 Serie A victory over Lazio on November 9. He suffered an injury to his ankle, which required surgery to amend. 

Dumfries has missed the last 13 Serie A matches, plus four in the Champions League, two in the Coppa Italia and one in the Supercoppa Italiana while recovering from his ankle injury. 

It remains to be seen whether he will be called up to Cristian Chivu’s squad for the Juventus match. Given the extent of his lay-off, he is not currently expected to start. 

This is still a big boost for Chivu’s side, who were also able to welcome both Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu back to training earlier this week. Calhanoglu had been out injured since January 11 and Barella since January 28. 

Recent reports claim that Barella is slightly more likely than Calhanoglu to return to the starting XI straight away for the Juventus match.

Barcelona and Bayern Munich have made contact with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic ahead of a potential free transfer over the summer, but the Serbia international still has no agreement to leave the Allianz Stadium.

Vlahovic is one of the highest-rated players available on a free transfer in June as his Juventus contract runs out at the end of the season.

Juventus still hope to extend Vlahovic’s contract

Fabrizio Romano has provided the latest updates on the Serbian striker after Juventus director Marco Ottolini admitted the club still hopes to extend with the 26-year-old.

Romano confirmed that talks between Juventus and Vlahovic are on hold, but the ex-Fiorentina striker hasn’t signed with any other club yet.

Barcelona have already made contact with Vlahovic, but Bayern Munich are an option as well, Romano confirmed.

Barcelona are looking for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, while Bayern need a backup for Harry Kane as Nicolas Jackson will leave at the end of the season.

However, Bayern last made contact with Vlahovic around October/November and have not made a formal proposal yet.

Vlahovic also remains on Milan’s radar as Massimiliano Allegri already worked with the Serbia international at Juventus.

Juventus are expecting to have Francisco Conceicao at their disposal for Saturday’s Derby d’Italia against rivals Inter, but Weston McKennie has had to have five stitches in his leg on Wednesday according to the latest updates. 

Juventus team news heading into Inter clash

The Bianconeri are underway with their preparations for Saturday’s Serie A crunch match against rivals Inter, who sit eight points clear at the top of the league table ahead of kick-off. 

Juventus are coming in off the back of a 2-2 draw against Lazio last time out in the league. 

Conceicao was expected to come on at half-time during the Lazio game. He was out warming up during the interval, was seen receiving detailed instructions from the coaching staff, but then reported some discomfort in his knee before coming on. In the end, it was Edon Zhegrova who came on at the start of the second half instead of the Portugal international. 

According to the latest reports, Conceicao was able to train as usual with the rest of the Juventus first team on Wednesday, which means that he is currently expected to be part of the squad for the derby against Inter on Saturday. 

Wednesday’s reports confirm that McKennie was not involved in Juventus training on Wednesday. That is because he suffered a cut just above his ankle during the Lazio game over the weekend and had five stitches put in on Wednesday. 

However, according to Sky Sport Italia and Calciomercato, McKennie should be back in training on Thursday as long as he does not feel too much discomfort, which means that he should also be available for the Inter game over the weekend. 

Strikers Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik remain the only Juventus players expected to miss out through injury over the weekend. 

Fabrizio Romano confirms that Milan and Bournemouth have signed the documents for Alex Jimenez’s permanent move to the English club for €19m, a fee that the Serie A giants will split with Real Madrid.

Spanish full-back Jimenez has completed a permanent move to Bournemouth from Milan.

Jimenez joins Bournemouth permanently

The 20-year-old joined the Premier League side on loan last summer, and Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed on YouTube that “all the documents have been signed” to make his move permanent.

Romano reports that Jimenez’s permanent acquisition will cost Bournemouth €19m, which will be split between Milan and Real Madrid.

How much Milan earn from Jimenez’s Bournemouth transfer

Milan will also receive add-ons superior to €3m.

Jimenez is a product of the Merengues’ academy, and the La Liga giants held a 50% sell-on clause.

Jimenez has scored one goal and one assist in 24 appearances across all competitions this season.

During his latest interview with Mundo Deportivo, he said he decided to leave Milan last summer because he feared he’d not receive enough playing time.

For decades, the image of Italian football was defined by the local industrialist pouring money into a beloved club as a passion project. It was charming, sure, but it wasn’t exactly a sustainable business model for the modern era.

Those days are mostly a memory now. If you look at the corporate hallways of Inter or Juventus today, you won’t just find scouts looking for the next number ten; you’ll find data scientists crunching numbers that have nothing to do with expected goals and everything to do with who we are as fans.

From Mass Marketing to Personal Connection

The big shift is that Italian giants have finally stopped treating their global fanbases as one giant, anonymous mass. They’ve started looking at supporters from every possible angle to figure out what actually makes us tick. By tracking how we interact with OTT streaming services and what we’re liking on social media, clubs can tell if you’re a casual viewer in New York or a die-hard season ticket holder in Turin.

It’s a move toward hyper-personalised entertainment. Inter, for instance, has been vocal about their “Media House” approach, ditching the old PR playbook to build something that feels more like a tailored Netflix experience. Why send the same generic email to everyone when you can offer a specific behind-the-scenes video to the fan who just spent twenty minutes watching training clips? It’s about making engagement feel like it was earned rather than just forced on us.

The New Face of Sponsorship

This move toward deep analytics has completely flipped the sponsorship market on its head. The traditional companies and local food brands are still around, but they’re being eclipsed by digital-first players—the kind of companies that live and breathe data. We are talking about AI-driven fintech apps, crypto platforms, and massive global sportsbooks like Lottoland that understand the value of a digital-savvy audience.

These partners aren’t just paying for a logo on a shirt anymore. They want the data. They want to know they’re reaching people who are already comfortable managing their lives through an app. It’s a bit of a two-way street; a club’s digital maturity is now the main bait for brands that live in that same fast-paced, data-heavy world.

• Clubs are turning into media companies first and sports teams second.
• Revenue is finally moving away from just relying on ticket sales and TV rights.
• Direct-to-consumer platforms let clubs own their stories completely.

Why This Matters for the Fans

You might wonder if all this talk of “data points” and “monetisation” sucks the soul out of the beautiful game. It’s a fair concern. But look at it this way: a more profitable, modern Serie A is a more competitive one.

The truth is, leaning so hard on data analytics changes the way we enjoy the sport in ways we don’t always notice. Better data means better stadium experiences, more immersive apps, and content that actually reflects what we want to see. When clubs stop guessing, they can finally build an environment where football is the centrepiece of a much larger, smarter entertainment package.

Is it a bit cold? Maybe. But in a world where Italian football needs to keep pace with the financial might of the Premier League, this digital evolution isn’t just a choice—it’s a survival tactic.

What do you think about your club knowing your digital habits? Does the data-driven approach make you feel like a valued customer, or just another number in a spreadsheet? Drop a comment below and let us know if you prefer the old-school ways or this new digital frontier.

Roberto De Zerbi’s time with Olympique de Marseille has come to an end after just over 18 months, but what went wrong at the Stade Velodrome and what could the future hold for the former Brighton coach? 

Late on Tuesday evening, it was confirmed that Marseille and De Zerbi had parted company by mutual consent. De Zerbi leaves the club in fourth place in Ligue 1, 12 points off the table-topping Paris Saint-Germain. 

De Zerbi’s time at Marseille: Re-cap 

De Zerbi took over at Marseille in the summer of 2024, following a difficult 2023-24 campaign in which the team had finished in eighth place in Ligue 1. That eighth place finish meant that Marseille did not compete in any European competition during De Zerbi’s first season in charge. 

Among De Zerbi’s signings during his first summer in charge were Mason Greenwood, who finished as the division’s joint-top scorer, Adrien Rabiot, Amine Gouiri, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Manu Kone.

Those signings helped Marseille on their way to a second place finish in Serie A during De Zerbi’s first season in charge. They finished the 2024-25 campaign on 65 points, four points clear of their closest competitors, Monaco, but 19 points shy of the eventual champions, PSG.

Still, a second place finish was enough for Marseille to confirm their place in the Champions League for the 2025-26 campaign.

The Champions League campaign did not go to plan, though. Marseille beat Ajax, Newcastle and Union SG over the course of the league phase, but recorded defeats against Real Madrid, Sporting CP, Atalanta, Liverpool and Club Brugge, which meant that they finished the league phase in 25th place, being knocked out of the tournament on goal difference. 

Marseille’s Champions League exit was confirmed on January 28. De Zerbi followed that up with a 2-2 draw against Paris FC in Ligue 1, a victory over Rennes in the Coupe de France, but then a 5-0 hammering away against rivals PSG: De Zerbi’s final game in charge. 

That 5-0 defeat against PSG was Marseille’s worst ever loss against their archrivals. 

Despite an unceremonious end to his time in charge of Marseille, De Zerbi leaves the club with the best win percentage of any Marseille coach of the last 10 years (57%). He also has the third-highest points-per-game record of any Marseille coach from the last 10 years with 1.84. Only Jorge Sampaoli (1.87) and Igor Tudor (1.85) did better by that metric. 

In the end, De Zerbi lasted for 590 days at Marseille, taking charge of 69 matches over that period. The average under Marseille’s current ownership is 374 days and 49 matches. Only Rudi Garcia, who lasted for 142 games between 2016 and 2019 lasted longer than De Zerbi under the current Marseille regime.

Milan star Christian Pulisic returned to group training on Wednesday, meaning he’ll probably be available on Friday when the Rossoneri visit Pisa.

Milan star Pulisic returned to group training on Wednesday morning, according to several sources in Italy, including Milan News.

Pulisic injury boost for Milan

The American star had missed Milan’s latest Serie A game against Bologna due to bursitis.

The 27-year-old is Milan’s best scorer this season with 10 goals in 20 appearances, but hasn’t yet found the net in 2026, receiving limited playing time due to fitness issues.

His return to training today, however, suggests he should be eligible on Friday, when Milan meet strugglers Pisa in an away Serie A match.

Saelemaekers still trains separately

On the other hand, Alexis Saelemaekers continued to train separately today due to an adductor problem that already forced him out of action against Bologna.

It remains to be seen whether the Belgian will be available in two days, but his return to the squad seems unlikely as the Rossoneri doctors want to take a cautious approach and give Saelemaekers the time he needs to fully recover.

Juventus directors Damien Comolli and Giorgio Chiellini unveiled a new project involving startups that will collaborate with the club this season: ‘Football and sporting entertainment move quickly.’

Juventus CEO Comolli and Director of Football Strategy Chiellini unveiled a new project at the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Wednesday morning.

Comolli and Chiellini unveil new Juventus project

During the event Forward. In Play – Innovation Takes the Field Juventus presented their ‘Forward Squad’, which consists of a new team of startups that will collaborate with the club this season in various capacities, including the development and storytelling of new projects.

“Football and sporting entertainment move quickly, and we can’t stand still,” Comolli said via Ilbianconero.com.

“We must look ahead, think big regarding football and the entertainment business in the next 15 years. We must not think about now, but what will happen in the next five or ten years and how the fans get to the stadium in five or ten years.”

Chiellini added: “We’re happy to launch an innovation squad. Innovation has been an important part of Juventus since its foundation. We are at the stadium, we were the first club to own one with a vision that went beyond matchdays.”

Chiellini was on the pitch on September 11, 2011, when Juventus played their first competitive match at the Allianz Stadium, beating Parma 4-1.

The former defender would go on to win nine Serie A titles with the Bianconeri under Antonio Conte, Massimiliano Allegri and Maurizio Sarri.

After his retirement, Chiellini returned to Juventus in 2024 as the Head of Football Institutional Relations but was then promoted to Director of Football Strategy last summer.

Chiellini on Juventus’ development on and off the pitch

“We will launch a project that goes beyond sport. Football clubs are not just about what happens on the pitch; they are much more than that,” Chiellini continued.

“You see a variety of startup and we are happy to host a sports startup accelerator at the Juventus Stadium. We are proud to become a local and national point of reference.

“We want to implement something measurable, something truly useful for the club. All the startups have been selected to address everyday challenges, and we are working to support each other and everything around us. This is a launch, a call to share innovation. Our goal is to be a driving force and a catalyst for collaboration toward an increasingly integrated and innovative future.”

Former Argentine striker Martin Palermo is full of praise for Inter star Lautaro Martinez: ‘For me, he’s the best striker in Europe.’

Former Boca Juniors star Martin Palermo lauded Inter star Lautaro in an interview with Argentine podcast Clank! 

Lautaro the ‘best striker’ in Europe

“Lautaro. For me, he’s the best striker in Europe,” Palermo said.

“He scores goals, he’s powerful and continuously looks to score. But at the same time, he drops deep to play the ball, he moves a lot, passes the ball wide and runs inside the box. He does these movements without being clumsy, as they told me sometimes.”

Lautaro is the best scorer in Serie A this season with 14 goals.

The 28-year-old Inter captain has scored 18 times in 33 games across all competitions this term, having also bagged four goals in seven Champions League appearances.

Emil Holm has made no secret of the fact that he wants to stay on with Juventus beyond the 2025-26 season, and has shared his first impressions of Luciano Spalletti, Kenan Yildiz and the upcoming Derby d’Italia against Inter. 

Holm wants to stay at Juventus on permanent basis

Holm joined Juventus on the final day of the January transfer window, signing an initial loan deal that also includes an option to buy for €15m plus €3m in bonuses. The Bianconeri also sent Joao Mario to Bologna on loan on the same day. 

The 25-year-old has represented four different clubs in Serie A, along with Spezia, Atalanta and Bologna, but is hoping that he finds a permanent home in Turin. 

“All my teammates, the coach and the staff have helped me to feel part of the group. My goal is to be here beyond the summer,” the Sweden international told Sky Sport in an interview. “I want to help as much as I can and I want to give 100% to stay here.” 

Holm also revealed what was said in his first conversation with Bianconeri head coach Luciano Spalletti: “He told me that his wife is from La Spezia, so she watched a lot of games when I was there. We haven’t spoken much, but it’s gone well so far.” 

Holm also spoke about his best positions on the pitch: “As a full-back and as a wing-back,” he said. “I have to push a lot on the pitch and give my best. I want to learn something new every day and push as hard as I can.” 

And when asked for his initial thoughts after seeing starman Yildiz up close and personal, Holm added: “He’s really strong in my opinion. I played against him in training and you can immediately see that he has this impressive quality.” 

And looking forward to the Derby d’Italia against rivals Inter this weekend, he added: “If we win, we’ll make up a bit of ground in the standings. It’s a long season, though.
If we win it, it’s a great opportunity of course.”

Antonio Conte insulted referee Gianluca Manganiello during Napoli’s Coppa Italia game against Como on Tuesday, which, according to Gazzetta, will likely lead to a disciplinary proceeding.

The FIGC Prosecutor Giuseppe Chiné will likely open an investigation against Conte after the Italian was spotted insulting referee Manganiello during Napoli’s Coppa Italia game against Como last night.

What Conte told Napoli-Como referee

Conte called the referee “d***head’ while urging him to go to the pitchside monitor to review a potential red card for Como defender Jacobo Ramon.

As reported by Gazzetta, the insult was not heard by the referee on the pitch, nor by the fourth official, but emerged from a video released by Sport Mediaset, the Coppa Italia TV right holders in Italy.

Conte risk a one-game ban

According to the report, the FIGC Prosecutor is now collecting all the images and audio from the episode, which will likely lead to a disciplinary proceeding against Conte.

The Napoli boss could even face a one-game suspension unless he accepts a plea deal requiring him to pay a fine.

Tuttosport newspaper reports that Atalanta’s Ederson is one of Juventus’ top targets to strengthen their midfield in the summer, with the Brazilian available for €40m.

Juventus have set their sights on Atalanta midfielder Ederson.

Ederson available for €40m

The Brazilian’s contract at the New Balance Arena runs out in June 2027, and according to Tuttosport, the midfielder is unwilling to extend it.

Therefore, Juventus have emerged as one of the interested clubs to sign the Atalanta star in the summer transfer window.

Ederson is a key Atalanta player, but he’ll enter the final year of his contract in Bergamo in July, so the Nerazzurri will release him for €40m at the end of the season.

Atletico Madrid to rival Juventus for Ederson?

According to the report, Atletico Madrid also showed interest in Ederson after signing Ademola Lookman from Atalanta in the January transfer window.

Juventus, on the other hand, signed Teun Koopmeiners for €60m less than two years ago after months of negotiations with Atalanta.

Juventus are expected to bring in midfield reinforcement in 2026-27, and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali has also been linked with a move to Turin.

Roberto De Zerbi is the early favourite to replace Thomas Frank as head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, just a few hours after his departure from Olympique de Marseille was confirmed. 

De Zerbi and Maresca among early options for Tottenham

Marseille confirmed in the early hours of Wednesday morning that they have parted company with De Zerbi after just over 18 months in charge. The Italian leaves the French outfit in fourth place in the Ligue 1 standings, 12 points off league leaders PSG after 21 matches. 

De Zerbi’s final match in charge came in a 5-0 hammering by PSG away from home after the weekend. 

Iti was also confirmed on Wednesday that Premier League side Tottenham have dismissed head coach Frank, who was appointed as the successor to Ange Postecoglu over the summer. He leaves Spurs in 16th place, just five points above the Premier League relegation zone. 

According to reports from the Evening Standard, De Zerbi is currently the odds-on favourite to replace Frank as head coach of Tottenham. Another Italian in Enzo Maresca has also been mentioned in early reports.

Former Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino has also been mooted for a return to North London, but he is currently in charge of the United States men’s national team, and is not expected to leave before the 2026 World Cup this summer. 

Meanwhile, former Milan head coach Sergio Conceicao has been linked with a potential move to the Stade Velodrome to replace De Zerbi according to reports from Footmercato.

Milan defender Koni De Winter hopes that his performances with the Rossoneri this season will help him get a spot in the Belgium squad for the 2026 World Cup.

De Winter has become a regular starter at Milan in recent months, starting seven of the last eight Serie A matches.

The Belgium international moved to San Siro from Genoa last summer and has scored one goal in 18 appearances with the Rossoneri.

“I used to follow Milan’s games in the Champions League as a kid,” De Winter told Tuttosport (via Gianluca Di Marzio).

“My dad had done it even before I was born. I really liked Seedorf; he even wanted to call me Clarence.”

De Winter’s Juventus debut under Allegri

De Winter is a product of the Juventus Academy and made his senior debut with the Bianconeri under Massimiliano Allegri in 2021, in a Champions League match against Chelsea.

“It was nice to reunite with Allegri; I’m on excellent terms with him,” the defender said.

“When he has a target, he goes forward to accomplish it. When I arrived at Juventus, I felt disoriented, but when I trained with him, he was always very attentive. When he saw I was ready, he added me to the first team and gave me my senior debut.”

De Winter on his role models, Milan targets and World Cup

De Winter went on talk about his role models and Milan’s target this season.

“I’ve always liked Kompany and Thiago Silva,” he said.

“At Juventus, I only had to look to Chiellini, Bonucci and De Ligt to learn something. I’d be very happy if we return to the Champions League this season.”

I hope to live this experience. Being here in Milan will help me improve and get the call-up.

De Winter made his senior Belgium debut in 2024 under Domenico Tedesco and has made five appearances with his national team.

The 23-year-old has been regularly called up to the senior Belgian national team since June 2025.

Sport Mediaset shows Antonio Conte’s furious reactions to referee decisions in Napoli’s Coppa Italia defeat against Como last night: ‘He does it on purpose with me.’

Napoli were eliminated from the Coppa Italia quarter-finals on Tuesday, losing on penalties against Cesc Fabregas’ Como.

Conte was highly unhappy with the referee’s decisions, as he clearly stated in his post-match interviews.

Sport Mediaset showed Conte’s reactions from the sidelines to the ref’s most controversial calls last night.

What furious Conte told the referee during Napoli vs. Como

At the end of the first half, Jacobo Ramon fouled Rasmus Hojlund at the edge of the box, prompting Conte to ask for a VAR check.

“At least go check it, d****head, go check it at least,” he shouted.

When the fourth official arrived to calm him down, Conte continued: “It might be red or not, but what the f**! VAR should check and call him.”

At the beginning of the second half, Ramon made a similar foul, also at the edge of the box, but received no yellow card.

Conte wanted Ramon to be sent off twice

Conte’s protest continued, and this time he was joined by some of his staff members.

“That’s a yellow, that’s a yellow,” Conte shouted.

“He [the referee] does it on purpose with me,” the Napoli coach told the fourth official, who once again arrived to clear the air.

“That was a yellow card. How is it not yellow? You are destroying us,” Conte concluded.

Antonio Conte says he will list all the teams that have won ‘zero titles’ in his upcoming press conferences, in a clear reference to José Mourinho after Napoli’s Coppa Italia exit.

Napoli were eliminated from the Coppa Italia quarter-finals by Como on Tuesday night, suffering a 7-6 defeat on penalties.

Napoli, the defending Serie A champions, have won the Supercoppa in 2025-26, but faced elimination from Coppa Italia and Champions League. They sit third in the league standings, nine points below Inter.

Following Napoli’s Coppa Italia exit last night, Conte showed pride in the results he has achieved over the last 18 months, even mentioning Mourinho indirectly.

Why Conte mentioned Mourinho after Napoli’s Coppa Italia exit

During his time at Inter, the Special One once taunted the Nerazzurri’s rivals, listing those who would not win titles that season.

“There are many positive things. It’s true, we’ve been knocked out of the Coppa Italia and Champions League. Now Serie A is what remains, and we have to do the best we possibly can,” Conte said at a post-match press conference last night (via TuttoNapoli).

“I want to thank the fans because they appreciate and understand the efforts this team is making, all together. Two years, a Scudetto and a Supercoppa, that shouldn’t be forgotten.”

At that point, Conte made gestures, showing zero in his right hand and two in his left hand.

“So, from now on, every time I hold a press conference, I’ll start like this, and then I’ll list the teams that, as one coach used to say, have won zero titles, okay?” he concluded.

Many Napoli stars have been out of action for several months, limiting Conte’s chances to rotate.

At full-time, the Italian tactician complained about referee decisions and suggested his team is unable to fight for the title due to the high number of injuries.

Guglielmo Vicario is reportedly Inter’s priority target to replace Yann Sommer in 2026-27, but Juventus have emerged as a potential rival in the race for the Tottenham goalkeeper.

Inter and Juventus will meet in the Derby d’Italia at San Siro next Saturday, but the two Serie A giants could also find themselves competing away from the pitch during the summer transfer window.

Vicario is Inter’s top target to replace Sommer

According to Gazzetta, in fact, both clubs are keeping an eye on Italy international Vicario.

Inter have been thinking about Vicario for a few months as they prepare to replace Yann Sommer in 2026-27.  The 37-year-old’s contract expires in June, and Inter are not expected to offer him a new deal.

Vicario is said to be Inter’s priority target for next summer. The Italian goalkeeper has plenty of Serie A experience, and he’d consider a return to the Peninsula if a top club knocks on his door, although he’s still happy at Tottenham.

The only concern for Inter is tied to Tottenham’s asking price, not expected to be below €25m.

Juventus to rival Inter for Vicario?

Juventus are one of the potential contenders as Michele Di Gregorio is no longer considered ‘untouchable’ in Turin, while Mattia Perin could leave to get more time elsewhere in Serie A.

Therefore, the Bianconeri are open to making a change between the sticks next season if an appealing opportunity arises.

Vicario is Italy’s second-choice goalkeeper behind Gigio Donnarumma. A former Empoli, Cagliari and Udinese shot-stopper, Vicario has kept 13 clean sheets in 36 appearances this season. He has collected five appearances with the Italy national team, making his debut in March 2024.

Source: Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper, page 19. Feb 11, 2026.

Bologna and Lazio meet at the Stadio Dall’Ara tonight in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals, with the winner facing Atalanta in the semis.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Dall’Ara Stadium in Bologna.

The Rossoblu are the defending champions, but are struggling in Serie A with four consecutive losses that left them 10th in the standings.

Vincenzo Italiano must cope without Charalampos Lykogiannis, Lorenzo De Silvestri and Torbjørn Heggem.

Lazio have prepared for the game in Coverciano, Florence, in the last two days and have travelled to Bologna without the injured Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot.

Mario Gila and Oliver Provstgaard are not fully fit after sustaining minor injuries in the previous match against Juventus, but they are still expected to be available.

According to Gazzetta, Gila will get the nod in central defence, while Corriere dello Sport reports that Provstgaard will start.

The winner will face Atalanta in the semis, while Como’s win over Napoli on Tuesday sent Cesc Fabregas’ side into the other semifinal against Inter.

Bologna vs. Lazio – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on Premier Player in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.

Bologna vs. Lazio – probable line-ups

Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Zortea, Casale, Lucumì, Miranda; Pobega, Freuler; Orsolini, Odgaard, Cambiaghi; Castro.

Lazio (4-3-3): Provedel; Marusic, Provstgaard, Romagnoli, Pellegrini; Dele-Bashiru, Cataldi, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Pedro.

Ligue 1 side Marseille confirm they have parted ways with Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi ‘by mutual agreement.’

Italia coach De Zerbi is no longer in charge of French side Marseille.

The Ligue 1 side confirmed on Tuesday night that the Italian had left the club by mutual consent.

Official: Marseille confirm De Zerbi’s exit

“Olympique de Marseille and Roberto De Zerbi, coach of the first team, have announced the end of their collaboration by mutual agreement,” OM said in a statement.

“Following discussions between all stakeholders in the club’s management—the owner, president, director of football, and coach—it was decided to make a change at the helm of the first team.

“This was a difficult collective decision, taken after careful consideration in the best interests of the club, in order to respond to the sporting challenges of the end of the season.

“Olympique de Marseille would like to thank Roberto De Zerbi for his dedication, commitment, professionalism, and seriousness, which were particularly evident in the team’s second-place finish in the 2024/25 season.

“The club wishes him all the best for the rest of his career.”

Marseille sit fourth in the Ligue 1 standings following a 5-0 loss against PSG last weekend.

They were also eliminated from the Champions League group phase, finishing outside the top 24.

Marseille appointed De Zerbi as their head coach in the summer of 2024.

The Italian tactician, who previously worked for Sassuolo, Shakhtar and Brighton, won 39 games out of 69 in charge of OM.

In the current campaign, Marseille collected 18 wins, three draws and 12 defeats under his guidance.