“The values aligned together and I was very enthusiastic when I got the call and the opportunity to come to, as I mentioned, a very good, honest respectful club and I still am enthusiastic for the future.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – APRIL 20: Ashley Cole, First Team Coach of Everton gestures during the warm up prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Leicester City at Goodison Park on April 20, 2022 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
It comes as a surprise to many but reports indicated that the Italian club wanted a recognisable figure from world football and Cole is familiar with club co-owner Mike Melby, from their time at LA Galaxy.
“More importantly, for me, my background, my beginning is just like the Cesena fans: very humble, good values, good loyalty and at the moment they’re giving everything for the club and I need to give something back.”
For Cole, it is a surprise opportunity to jump start a managerial career that looked as though it was never destined to arrive. He seems enthusiastic about the challenge, but once again stressed the most important thing is to reflect the fans.
“The minute I heard about this opportunity, I jumped at the chance to come here. My team needs to reflect not me, always, it needs to reflect the club, its fans and the values of these fans.”
Bologna sporting director Marco Di Vaio has hailed the ‘wonderful journey’ his side have taken through the Europa League as they prepare for a vital second leg against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.
Di Vaio also singled out experienced forward Federico Bernardeschi as a source of inspiration for his younger teammates in what promises to be an exciting contest.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Federico Bernardeschi of Bologna looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He has experience with Juventus in these types of matches, where he performed very well, and so he can inspire his teammates in the crucial moments of the game. Those who have played in them, like him and Freuler, can help the younger players handle the pressure. Roma are a strong team.”
The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, so a place in the Europa League quarter-final will all be decided this evening.
Whoever wins will go through to face either Aston Villa or Lille.
The Stadio Olimpico holds fond memories for Bologna, because this is where they beat Milan last season to win the Coppa Italia. It was the club’s first piece of silverware for 51 years and allowed them to qualify for the Europa League too.
Commenting on that match, Di Vaio said “We know it’s a completely different match, we have wonderful memories and we hope to relive them tonight.”
Bologna are coming off a morale-boosting 1-0 Serie A victory away to local rivals Sassuolo, but in that game lost goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski to injury. It means Federico Ravaglia steps in to take the gloves this evening.
Fiorentina are through to the Conference League quarter-finals after Cher Ndour’s deflected effort and a Marin Pongracic goal from his own half beat Rakow.
They will face either Crystal Palace or AEK Larnaca, as that Round of 16 tie is going to extra time.
The Viola had a slender 2-1 first leg lead thanks to the last-gasp Albert Gudmundsson penalty in this Round of 16. Moise Kean returned from injury for his first start since March 2, with Niccolò Fortini, Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey injured. Rakow finished second in the league phase of the tournament and won the Polish title in 2023, but again left top scorer Lamine Diaby-Fadiga initially on the bench.
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 26: Paolo Vanoli of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Jagiellonia Bialystok at Stadio Artemio Franchi on February 26, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Kean made an immediate impact, cutting inside from the left after three minutes for two shots charged down from close range by Stratos Svarnas.
Ivi Lopez tested Oliver Christensen with a free kick at the near post, but the hosts lost Fran Tudor to injury after just 19 minutes.
When Lopez pulled back from the by-line for Jonatan Braut Brunes, the finish from six yards was charged down by Giovanni Fabbian.
Nicolò Fagioli floated a ball over the top for Kean to volley straight at the goalkeeper, then the midfielder went for goal himself on a Fabiano Parisi cross on the stroke of half-time, forcing a save under the crossbar.
Within 22 seconds of the restart, Rakow had taken the lead on the night, drawing level on aggregate 2-2. Karol Struski cut inside Cher Ndour from the left and drilled hard and low into the near bottom corner, surprising Christensen.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Stratos Svarnas of Rakow Czestochowa battles for the ball with Fabiano Parisi of ACF Fiorentina during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Svarnas threw himself in the way of a Giovanni Fabbian strike, with Ndour nodded over from the resulting corner.
The Viola started to pour forward and rack up a series of corners, Ndour unable to tap in from six yards, then Parisi stinging Oliwier Zych’s gloves from the edge of the area.
Roberto Piccoli came so close on 67 minutes when nodding the Robin Gosens cross onto the base of the upright from point-blank range.
The pressure paid off, as after good work from Parisi, the Ndour strike from the edge of the box took a big deflection off teammate Piccoli to wrongfoot the goalkeeper and slot into the far bottom corner, restoring Fiorentina’s advantage on aggregate.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Cher Ndour of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Viola kept pushing anyway to consolidate their lead overall, Piccoli firing wide from close range and Parisi’s strike skimming the near post.
Zych also had to fly to palm the Fagioli curler out of the top corner from the edge of the area, but there was a huge scare when the referee pointed to the spot for a penalty. He changed his mind following the VAR review and instead booked Brunes for the obvious dive, as there was no contact with Christensen.
Fiorentina were under siege in stoppages, with even Zych going up for a set play, but this left the goal unprotected, and Marin Pongracic on the counter-attack intelligently passed it into the empty net from inside his own half.
Roma director Ricky Massara ‘can’t wait to experience’ the Europa League Round of 16 against Bologna, noting the trophy is ‘a target we want to aim for.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).
The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, so it’s winner takes all today for a place in the quarter-final against either Aston Villa or Lille.
Roma ready for Bologna test
WALSALL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Frederic Massara, Sporting Director of AS Roma, looks on prior to the pre-season friendly match between Aston Villa and AS Roma at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on August 06, 2025 in Walsall, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
“This is a stadium that can really push the players, there is a great atmosphere, and it will be a wonderful event,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.
“We can’t wait to experience this match. Roma have a strong ambition in the Europa League, it is a target we want to aim for.
“There are many games to be played from here to the end, starting with a strong Bologna side, so this is going to be difficult.”
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Stephan El Shaarawy of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Genoa at Stadio Olimpico on January 17, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma have been going through a bit of a rough spell lately, managing only two draws from their last four competitive games and sliding down from fourth in the Serie A table to sixth.
Their progress in the Europa League therefore becomes particularly important, as winning the trophy represents another avenue into Champions League qualification.
“There will be strong motivation this evening from the crowd, but we also need to keep clear heads to deal with many dangers,” added Massara.
“We have confidence, we expect the experienced players to act as guides for the younger ones who aren’t as accustomed to this type of match.”
Giuseppe Marotta has acknowledged the growing pressure of Milan’s pursuit in the Serie A title race while insisting Inter remain fully confident of holding on to claim the Scudetto.
Speaking via video link at the Motore Italia event in Milan, with quotes via FCInter1908, the Inter president used a vivid metaphor to describe his club’s position at the top of the table.
“We are the hare that has to be stopped, it is the most difficult position to be in,” he said, when asked whether he felt Milan breathing down his neck.
“It is easier to be the hunter. But we are competitive and convinced we can do it. I want to transmit optimism to the squad and to our supporters.”
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 05: Giuseppe Marotta Chairman of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma and FC Internazionale at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 05, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Marotta calm as Inter look to wrap up Scudetto title
The comments come at a pivotal stage of the season, with Milan having closed the gap following their derby victory and now applying genuine pressure on Cristian Chivu’s side in the closing weeks of the campaign.
Marotta’s measured but confident tone suggests there is no panic at Viale della Liberazione, though the acknowledgement that leading from the front carries its own unique pressures was notably candid for a club president.
Marotta also touched briefly on the long-running new stadium project, describing it as a necessity for both Inter and Milan to meet international standards.
“It means creating employment, wellbeing and commercial activity,” he said. “Sport is an asset for our nation just like tourism, we must also thank the Olympic machinery for what it has generated.”
Alessandro Nesta has paid warm tribute to his former AC Milan teammates Paolo Maldini and Andrea Pirlo, while also offering a revealing assessment of Massimiliano Allegri’s evolution as a manager, speaking to Corriere della Sera to mark his 50th birthday.
The former Italy international, who won two Champions League titles during his time at San Siro, was asked to reflect on the teammates who left the deepest impression on him.
On Pirlo, his admiration was immediate and genuine. “I knew he was good, but only when I was able to work with him did I realise he was a genius,” he said, with quotes via MilanNews.
epa00998510 Defender Alessandro Nesta of AC Milan celebrate the victory at the end of the Champions League second leg semifinal match against Manchester United in Milan’s San Siro-Giuseppe Meazza stadium late 02 May 2007. AC Milan won 3-0 and acceeds to the final match against Liverpool which will be played in Athens on 23 May. EPA/ETTORE FERRARI
Nesta full of praise for Milan teammates Maldini & Pirlo
For sheer professionalism, though, it was Maldini who set the standard that shaped Nesta’s understanding of what it meant to be a winner.
“When I arrived at Milan and saw that, despite not being a youngster anymore, he was always giving everything at full speed, I understood why Milan always won,” he said. “At Lazio we clung to a lot of excuses to justify our failures.”
His most cherished memory? The 2003 Champions League final in Manchester against Juventus. “It was my first. From that moment, reaching the final became an obligation.”
On Allegri, Nesta was candid about a rocky start to their relationship. The pair clashed over Pirlo’s role when Allegri arrived at Milan from Cagliari, Nesta found it inconceivable that his friend was not the fulcrum of the team.
“For Max, walking into a dressing room of champions who had won everything and were at the end of a cycle was not easy,” he said. The Nesta of today, however, sees a very different coach. “Now he is much more determined, stronger for all the experiences and victories he has accumulated.”
Roma look to Donyell Malen and Stephan El Shaarawy for the Europa League all-Italian derby, as Bologna trust Santiago Castro and Federico Bernardeschi.
LECCE, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Lameck Banda of US Lecce competes for the ball with Stephan El Shaarawy of AS Roma during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on January 06, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, meaning it is all to play for in the Eternal City for a place in the Europa League quarter-finals.
Whoever wins will go through to face either Aston Villa or Lille.
Roma continue to have a serious injury crisis, missing Paulo Dybala, Matias Soulé, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson, while Lorenzo Venturino is not on the UEFA list.
Stephan El Shaarawy is chosen to start in support of centre-forward Malen, despite Lorenzo Pellegrini scoring in the first leg.
Once again, Bryan Cristante and Niccolò Pisilli will share the task of pushing into a more advanced position from midfield at different times in the game.
It has been a difficult period for Roma, who managed just two draws in four competitive games, sliding from fourth to sixth in the Serie A table.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 22: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates with his teammate Kostas Tsimikas after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between AS Roma and VfB Stuttgart at Stadio Olimpico on January 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Bologna have problems too, because Juan Miranda is suspended, while former Roma goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski is ruled out after picking up an injury at the weekend in the Serie A their 1-0 victory away to Sassuolo.
It means Federico Ravaglia has to take over the gloves, while Nikola Moro is not at 100 per cent and Lorenzo De Silvestri isn’t on the UEFA list.
Once again, Riccardo Orsolini is left on the bench, as Bernardeschi and Jonathan Rowe are in fine form supporting Castro upfront.
The Stadio Olimpico is a special place for Bologna, as this is where they beat Milan last season to win the Coppa Italia and qualify for the Europa League.
When these sides met here in Serie A back in August 2025, it ended 1-0 for Roma with a Wesley goal on his debut.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Santiago Castro of Bologna is challenged by Evan Ndicka of AS Roma during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Inter forward Ange-Yoan Bonny has opened up on one of the most dramatic and emotionally charged moments of his young life, the day a failed medical at Juventus nearly ended his football career before it had truly begun.
Speaking exclusively to L’Équipe, with quotes via Goal, the Inter forward recalled the moment at just 17 years old when doctors detected a cardiac irregularity during what should have been a routine pre-signing examination.
“I went from joining Juventus to nothing,” he said. “The doctors told me that, in their view, playing football would be complicated. It is a hard blow for a boy full of dreams.”
MONZA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: Ange-Yoan Bonny of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Bonny bounces back from Juventus snub to star for Inter years later
What followed was a moment of raw human connection that Bonny still treasures.
He returned home to Tours and went straight to a car park in the heart of his neighbourhood, an unglamorous but deeply meaningful meeting spot for him and his closest friends.
“My friends were in the same emotional state as I was, as if it had happened to them,” he said. “I understood who I could count on. I will never forget that.”
It is the same car park where, years later, he announced his signing for Inter. The symmetry was clearly not lost on him.
Bonny’s career subsequently took a different path, a spell in Serie B with Parma, promotion to the top flight, and eventually a move to Inter, but the Juventus episode remains a defining chapter.
His mother played her own pivotal role too, threatening to withhold her signature on his first professional contract unless he passed his school exams.
“She told me: if you don’t bring home that diploma, I promise the contract doesn’t get signed,” he laughed. He passed at the resit.
Now firmly established at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, Bonny’s journey from that car park in Tours to San Siro is quite the story.
Juventus are monitoring the situation of Leonardo Spinazzola as the experienced left winger approaches the end of his contract at Napoli.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, via IlNapolista, the Italian’s deal expires in June, and with negotiations over an extension yet to reach a conclusion, Juventus have made an approach to explore the possibility of signing him on a free transfer.
It is a move that would represent a return to the club where Spinazzola began his career.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Damien Comolli, General Manager of Juventus looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus offer Spinazzola two-year deal but Italian gives priority to Napoli
The sticking point appears to be contract length.
Napoli have offered a one-year extension with an option for a second, while Juventus are prepared to guarantee two years outright, matching what Spinazzola is understood to be seeking.
It is a meaningful difference, and one that gives the Bianconeri a clear advantage in any potential tug of war.
For now, however, Spinazzola is keen to handle the situation with respect towards Napoli, and is giving the club the opportunity to match his demands before making any decision.
Whether Antonio Conte’s side are willing to improve their offer to meet the player’s terms remains to be seen.
Should Spinazzola ultimately opt for the Juventus move, it would be a shrewd piece of free transfer business by CEO Damien Comolli, adding an experienced and versatile wide option without a transfer fee at a time when the club are managing their finances carefully.
The Viola have a 2-1 first leg lead in this Round of 16 tie, thanks to the late Albert Gudmundsson penalty after goals from Cher Ndour and Jonatan Braut Brunes at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
Fiorentina turn focus to Conference League
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 16: Dodo of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring the 0-3 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 16, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“The Conference League is a tournament where we want to go as far as possible, and have also an opportunity to shrug off the worries of Serie A this season,” Ferrari told Sky Sport Italia.
“We’ve seen how difficult it is in European football, so nothing can be taken for granted.”
Moise Kean was only expected to be on the bench after an ankle injury, but he gets his first start since March 2, and only the second start of the Conference League proper.
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina scores a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“The team had one approach up until January, then changed gear after that. We hope that there was progress in dealing with situations, understanding the issues, but also we’ve seen how easy it is to fall back into bad habits. Hopefully we have learned to focus on just one game at a time and take nothing for granted.”
Today is a special commemoration for Fiorentina, as it is two years since the death of director Joe Barone, who had come so close to winning the Conference League, losing two Finals.
“Barone left an enormous mark on us all. Rocco Commisso put in the money for the Viola Park, Barone had the tenacity and determination to get it built. He is missed not just by Fiorentina, but by the world of sport, and he will always be with us.”
Paulo Dybala’s time at Roma appears to be drawing to a close, with Argentina’s leading sports newspaper Olè reporting that a return to his homeland with Boca Juniors is increasingly likely once his contract expires on 30 June.
The Argentine has endured another injury-disrupted season at the Stadio Olimpico and is not expected to return to action until late April at the earliest, leaving him with only a handful of matches to make any case for a renewal.
That case, according to reports on both sides of the Atlantic, looks weaker by the day.
Contract extension talks have stalled to the point where they are now described as a distant prospect, with the gap between Dybala’s current €6 million salary and what Roma are willing to offer proving difficult to bridge.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Boca Juniors close in on Dybala move as Roma talks stall
Boca Juniors, meanwhile, are increasingly confident of securing his signature, via IlBianconero.
Olè went as far as splashing ‘Joya Libertadores’ across their front page, a headline that will set pulses racing among supporters of the club who have lifted the Copa Libertadores six times and are eager to add a seventh.
The Argentine giants are counting on Dybala’s yes, and the personal factors are working heavily in their favour.
Family considerations appear to be the driving force behind any potential move. A return to Argentina would allow Dybala to be closer to his parents, while his wife Oriana Sabatini, who has never concealed her desire to return home, has recently announced her involvement in an Argentine television programme.
The couple’s first child, Gia, adds another layer of personal motivation to what is becoming an increasingly compelling case for a homecoming.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Cher Ndour of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Viola came back from a goal down to win the first leg 2-1 thanks to a last-gasp Albert Gudmundsson penalty, so have a slender lead going to Poland.
They are also fresh from a morale-boosting 4-1 Serie A victory over Cremonese that took them away from the relegation zone.
Moise Kean returns to the starting XI, while Niccolò Fortini, Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey are injured.
Robin Gosens is rested after a knock to the ribs, as Harrison and Jacopo Fazzini complete the attack.
Marin Pongracic returns after missing the first leg through suspension, but is only on the bench.
It’s going to be an emotional day for Fiorentina, as it is two years ago that director Joe Barone died of a heart attack.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Ivi Lopez of Rakow Czestochowa battles for the ball with Pietro Comuzzo of ACF Fiorentina during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Rakow have never reached a UEFA quarter-final, so if they do manage to get past the Viola, it will be an historic event.
They’ve impressed in the Conference League so far, finishing second in the league phase, having won the Polish title in 2023.
Jonatan Braut Brunes was rested at the weekend to lead the line here, as he is the cousin of Erling Braut Haaland and scored at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in the first leg.
Lamine Diaby-Fadiga remains their top scorer in the Conference League this season with six goals in 12 games.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Stratos Svarnas of Rakow Czestochowa battles for the ball with Fabiano Parisi of ACF Fiorentina during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FIGC president Gabriele Gravina has moved to ease concerns over Sandro Tonali’s fitness ahead of Italy’s World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland, while issuing a passionate rallying cry for the nation to get behind Gennaro Gattuso’s side.
Speaking at a press conference following the federal council meeting, with quotes via the Corriere dello Sport, Gravina offered cautious but genuine optimism over the Newcastle midfielder’s condition after he was forced off during a recent club match.
“I am rather calm,” he said. “I am in close contact with Gattuso and last night I spoke with Sandro alongside the coach and our doctor De Carli. He was calmer than he was when he left the pitch, there is a concern, but it is at a very moderate level. This morning’s tests were reassuring. We will do everything possible to get him fit, working alongside Newcastle with whom we are in continuous contact.”
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 19: Gianluigi Buffon, Italy new head coach Gennaro Gattuso and FIGC president Gabriele Gravina pose during the press conference at Hotel Parco dei Principi on June 19, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gravina: ‘Italy must push these players to America… even if they have to swim!’
With a World Cup place on the line, Gravina drew explicit parallels with Italy’s triumphant Euro 2020 campaign, invoking the spirit of that summer to galvanise supporters ahead of what he described as a defining week for Italian football.
“Back then I described us as a normal team that could become special if we all felt the pride and belonging of the Azzurri shirt together,” he said. “Our fans helped those players overcome some formidable opponents. We need that same call to arms now, the push from this country must carry these players to America, even if they have to swim there.”
The FIGC president also revealed his own emotional investment in the coming days.
“I am tense, emotions feed me and it is impossible to be indifferent before an appointment this important,” he admitted.
“I will join the squad from the very first moment of their training camp and I will not leave their side for a second. The message will be: let us live this together, as a moment of freedom and serenity, knowing that if we are good the reward will be extraordinary.”
He ended on a note of genuine surprise and delight, confirming that tickets for the playoff had sold out within an hour, something he described as unprecedented in Italian football history.
According to Calciomercato.com, the Nerazzurri director Piero Ausilio has travelled to London to hold talks with the Tottenham star.
Spurs are fighting for Premier League survival, and Vicario is eager to return to Serie A next season.
Calciomercato.com confirms that the Italy international has already given the green light to a move to Inter.
With Yann Sommer’s contract expiring at the end of the season, the Nerazzurri are already preparing to sign a new goalkeeper, and preliminary talks with Vicario’s entourage began some weeks ago.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MARCH 15: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham looks on during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on March 15, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
According to several sources, Tottenham will likely demand a fee between €15m and €20m for Vicario, but if Spurs are relegated to the Championship, their asking price will drop further.
BILBAO, SPAIN – MAY 21: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur lifts the UEFA Europa League trophy after his team’s victory in the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Vicario has conceded 165 goals in 115 games with Tottenham, but won the Europa League with the Premier League club last season.
Reports in Italy claim that medical tests undergone by Sandro Tonali today have ruled out muscle injuries, so the Azzurri star will be available for next week’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.
The MRI scan Sandro Tonali underwent on Thursday ruled out any muscle injuries, according to Italian sources, including Gazzetta.
Positive Tonali injury update for Italy and Newcastle
The Newcastle midfielder will therefore be available for Thursday’s World Cup play-off semifinal between Italy and Northern Ireland.
Tonali was forced to be substituted during Newcastle’s Champions League match against Barcelona on Wednesday, raising concerns that he would not be available for Italy’s crucial match next week.
Besides the positive outcome of today’s tests, Tonali no longer feels pain in his left thigh, but he could still miss the upcoming Premier League match against Sunderland to resume training with the Azzurri next week.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 28: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James’ Park on February 28, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Italy coach Gattuso is expected to release his squad list tomorrow, while players will begin preparations in Coverciano on Monday, March 23.
If Italy beat Northern Ireland in the play-off semifinal on March 26, they’ll meet the winner of the Wales-Bosnia Herzegovina match on March 31.
AIA has officially announced the referees for Serie A Week 30, including the Milan-Torino and Fiorentina-Inter matches.
Serie A Week 30 begins on Friday with Cagliari-Napoli and Genoa-Udinese.
The Partenopei’s away game in Sardinia will be overseen by Maurizio Mariani.
Milan’s home game against Torino on Saturday will be overseen by Francesco Fourneau, while Andrea Colombo has been appointed for Fiorentina-Inter on Sunday night.
Below are all the referees, assistants and VAR appointed for the next Serie A Round.
Serie A Week 30 referees
CAGLIARI – NAPOLI Friday 20/03 h 18:30 (CET)
MARIANI
BINDONI – TEGONI
IV: PERRI
VAR: MARINI
AVAR: SERRA
GENOA – UDINESE Friday 20/03 h. 20:45
COLLU
PERETTI – BIFFI
IV: TURRINI
VAR: AURELIANO
AVAR: PEZZUTO
PARMA – CREMONESE Saturday 21/03 h. 15:00
FABBRI
CIPRESSA – YOSHIKAWA
IV: GALIPO’
VAR: PATERNA
AVAR: DI BELLO
MILAN – TORINO Saturday 21/03 h. 18:00
FOURNEAU
ROSSI M. – MORO
IV: DOVERI
VAR: NASCA
AVAR: MARESCA
JUVENTUS – SASSUOLO Saturday 21/03 h. 20:45
MARCHETTI
COSTANZO – BIANCHINI
IV: ALLEGRETTA
VAR: ABISSO
AVAR: CAMPLONE
EMPOLI, ITALY – OCTOBER 30: Matteo Marchetti referee gestures during the Serie A match between Empoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Carlo Castellani on October 30, 2024 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
COMO – PISA Sunday, 22/03 h. 12:30
PAIRETTO
MASTRODONATO – FONTEMURATO
IV: MUCERA
VAR: MERAVIGLIA
AVAR: DI BELLO
ATALANTA – H. VERONA Sunday, 22/03 h. 15:00
AYROLDI
BERCIGLI – FONTANI
IV: CREZZINI
VAR: MAGGIONI
AVAR: LA PENNA
BOLOGNA – LAZIO Sunday, 22/03 h. 15:00
FELICIANI
BERTI – LAUDATO
IV: ZANOTTI
VAR: DI PAOLO
AVAR: GIUA
ROMA – LECCE Sunday, 22/03 h. 18:00
SACCHI J.L.
BACCINI – ZINGARELLI
IV: MASSIMI
VAR: GHERSINI
AVAR: ABISSO
CAGLIARI, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: the refree Andrea Colombo looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari and Juventus at Sardegna Arena on February 23, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
According to Tuttosport, Juventus CEO Damien Comolli has identified Guillaume Restes as the ideal goalkeeping reinforcement for next season, while Luciano Spalletti prefers a more experienced player, such as David de Gea or Emiliano Martinez.
Juventus will sign a new goalkeeper in the summer, as Michele Di Gregorio has failed to impress in his second season at the club, while Mattia Perin will seek a club that offers him a starting spot.
Juventus looking for new goalkeeper in 2026-27
According to Tuttosport, the top target identified by CEO Comolli is French keeper Restes, who is under contract with Toulouse.
Comolli, a former director and President of the French club, is well aware of Restes’ qualities as the 21-year-old has been playing for Toulouse since he was six.
He has already made 100 appearances for Toulouse’s senior team, and his price tag is around €20m.
Spalletti, however, would rather put this money toward reinforcements in other departments, picking a more experienced goalkeeper instead.
According to the report, Fiorentina’s De Gea, Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario and Aston Villa’s Martinez are among the players on Spalletti’s list.
Martinez has reportedly been offered to the Old Lady, who will consider the Argentine’s signature, as long as his wage demands aren’t too high.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 27: Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa makes a save off a shot from Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Aston Villa FC and Juventus at Villa Park on November 27, 2024 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta and Liverpool’s Alisson are also highly regarded by Spalletti.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Alisson Becker of Liverpool celebrates after Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at City Ground on February 22, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Sky Sport Italia reports that Hakan Calhanoglu will be available for Inter’s away game at Fiorentina on Sunday, while Italy international Alessandro Bastoni could return to group training tomorrow.
Inter are preparing for Sunday’s away game at Fiorentina, and Sky Sport Italia provides the latest injury updates for the Nerazzurri.
Latest Inter injury updates
Calhanoglu has recovered from a calf injury and will be available for selection against Fiorentina.
Serie A’s top goalscorer, Lautaro Martinez, on the other hand, has intensified the workload but has continued to work separately.
If the Argentina international doesn’t return to group training in the next two days, he’ll be ruled out of the next league match.
Italy international Bastoni suffered an injury in the Milan derby and missed the most recent match against Atalanta.
Sky Sport reports that the Italian has partially worked with the team over the last few days, and that he could join his teammates for a full training session tomorrow.
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
If that is the case, Bastoni will be given the green light for the Fiorentina game as well as Italy’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland on March 26.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Inter competes for the ball with Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Last but not least, Mkhitaryan won’t be available against Fiorentina as he aims to return to action after the break, probably in a home match against his former club, Roma, on Easter.
Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici has reportedly sounded out Fabio Maresca’s availability for next season, but the ex-Chelsea coach is expected to hold out for a Premier League opportunity, particularly from Manchester City if Pep Guardiola departs.
Fiorentina director Paratici has explored Maresca’s availability for next season, according to a report from TMW.
Fiorentina director Paratici calls Maresca
Maresca has been without a club since the start of January, when he left Chelsea by mutual consent, months after winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup.
According to the report, Paratici has contacted Maresca in recent days, but the Italian tactician remains an unlikely candidate for the job at the Stadio Franchi next season.
Maresca, in fact, will likely wait for offers from the Premier League, particularly from Manchester City if Pep Guardiola were to leave at the end of the season.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 8: Fabio Paratici of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Parma Calcio 1913 at Artemio Franchi on March 8, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Maresca already worked in Guardiola’s Manchester City staff and has built a solid bond with the Spanish tactician.
COBHAM, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 08: Enzo Maresca, manager of Chelsea FC looks on during a training session at Chelsea Training Ground on December 08, 2025 in Cobham, England. (Photo by Jasper Wax/Getty Images)
Tuttomercato adds that Maresca would only consider offers from Juventus and Napoli in Serie A, but the Italian giants are expected to continue with Luciano Spalletti and Antonio Conte, respectively, next season.
Genoa coach Daniele De Rossi feels the Italy national team needs ‘real supporters’ for the 2026 World Cup play-off: ‘Now we play against Northern Ireland, and if we go ahead, Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. I don’t think they have better youth sectors than we do.’
Italy World Cup winner De Rossi spoke about the state of Italian football during a press conference on Thursday. Tomorrow, his Genoa side host Udinese in Serie A Round 30.
De Rossi: Italy need ‘true supporters’ in World Cup play-off
“I feel that too many times, we coaches lose in Europe, we tend to blame our football and the youth sectors. Last season, Inter reached the Champions League Final, beating Barcelona, and the youth sector was the same as this season,” De Rossi said via TMW.
Atalanta’s elimination from the Champions League Round of 16 means Serie A has no more representatives in Europe’s elite competition.
“It’s easy to say that youth sectors don’t work. Football is changing and will further change. My ideal player has more physical strength than a few years ago,” continued De Rossi.
“Then losing to Bayern Munich is understandable, as they have players worth €50m-60m-70m, and they’ve signed them from various youth systems around the world. Those are incredible realities, and it’s not strange to suffer heavy defeats. Atalanta shouldn’t be blamed as they played with pride, losing to a way stronger team.
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“As for the national team, we need to be less critical, and all be true supporters. If it goes badly, there will be a revolt, and there will be time to talk about Gravina, Gattuso and Buffon. Now we play against Northern Ireland, and if we go ahead, Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. I don’t think they have better youth sectors than we do. Now we must stop criticism and say a few words to support Gattuso and his players, who, I think, will play two great games.”
Juventus and Italy legend Alessandro Del Piero argues that Italian clubs are always ‘tired’, but should complain less about the fixture list and focus more on the pitch.
Serie A has no more representatives in the Champions League following Atalanta’s elimination from the Round of 16 at the hands of Bayern Munich.
Del Piero: Italian clubs ‘always’ tired
La Dea suffered a 10-2 aggregate loss against the Bundesliga giants while Napoli, Inter and Juventus had been knocked out in the previous rounds.
“Our problem is that we get tired. We are always the ones who are tired. In Italy, we are always tired,” Del Piero told Sky Sport via Fanpage.
“I’ve heard very few coaches abroad complain about matches or say we are tired. You have to adapt. We are talking about teams; you have to equip yourself accordingly.
“Today’s football is different. You have more players, more substitutions, more money to invest in physical preparation, recovery and so on. There’s more of everything.”
The last time an Italian club won the Champions League was in 2009-10 with José Mourinho’s Inter.
Since then, Juventus and Inter have reached the Final twice each, but failed to bring home the coveted cup.
“You need professionalism in trying to improve the players, because there is room for improvement. There is, because others do so,” Del Piero continued.
“We think we are the best, yet we concede seven goals, as it happened; then something isn’t quite right. Barcelona always play the same players. Then if someone gets injured, they take him out and put another one in.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 10: Former football player Alessandro Del Piero looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Real Madrid C.F. at Stadio di Bergamo on December 10, 2024 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Del Piero won the Champions League with Juventus in 1996 and the World Cup with the Italy national team ten years later in 2006.
The Italian national team will play in the World Cup play-off later this month after failing to qualify for the competition in 2018 and 2022.
Inter striker Ange-Yoan Bonny has decided to represent the Ivory Coast national team, but won’t be available for friendlies against South Korea and Scotland later this month due to a ‘dental issue.’
Inter striker Bonny, 22, will represent the Ivory Coast national team, coach Émerse Faé confirmed at a press conference (via SOS Fanta).
Ivory Coast coach confirms Bonny’s decision and Inter issue
Bonny was born in Aubervilliers, a suburb of Paris, and is of Ivorian descent.
Bonny represented France at the U19, U20 and U21 levels, but will continue his international career at a senior level with the African country.
Bonny, however, won’t be available for the next two friendly games against South Korea and Scotland during the March break later this month.
“He currently has dental issues, so we preferred to leave him with his club so he can regain full fitness, maintain consistency in his performances and join us at a later stage,” Faé said.
The match against Scotland will be played at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, home to Premier League side Everton, on March 31.
MONZA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: Ange-Yoan Bonny of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Ivory Coast have qualified for the 2026 World Cup and have been drawn in Group E alongside Ecuador, Germany and Curaçao.
Bonny has scored seven goals in 37 appearances across all competitions with Inter this season, his first one at the Stadio Meazza.
La Gazzetta dello Sport confirms that Guglielmo Vicario is Inter’s main goalkeeping target for 2026-27 and that the Italian is open to returning to Serie A after his relationship with Tottenham reached a low point.
Inter have identified Italy international Vicario as their main target in goal for next season.
Latest transfer updates on Vicario and Inter
The Nerazzurri are looking for a new starting goalkeeper for 2026-27, and previous reports suggested they would hold a new round of talks with the Tottenham star’s agents this month.
According to Gazzetta, Vicario has already informed his agents that he’d be happy to return to Serie A, particularly at Inter, which he was already close to joining in 2023 before his switch from Empoli to Tottenham.
Gazzetta highlights that Vicario’s relationship with Spurs reached a low point in recent months, so the Nerazzurri are confident they can reach an agreement with the Premier League side, who are currently fighting to avoid relegation.
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 16: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on August 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Inter, however, are aware that Tottenham’s asking price will be between €15m and €20m next summer, provided they remain in the Premier League.
Inter are not expected to offer a contract extension to Yann Sommer, although the club could change their mind and keep the Swiss international as a second-choice goalkeeper next season if they receive offers for Josep Martinez.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito and Yann Sommer of FC Internazionale Milano celebrate following the team’s victory in the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Como are ‘deeply saddened’ by the death of one of their owners, Michael Bambang Hartono: ‘Under the family’s leadership, the Club have entered a new chapter in their history.’
Michael Bambang Hartono, one of the owners of Serie A side Como, died on Thursday, the club announced in a statement.
“Como 1907 is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono,” the Azzurri said.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the Hartono family and to all at the Djarum Group.
“Under the family’s leadership, the Club has entered a new chapter in its history, and we remember him with gratitude and respect.”
Como 1907 is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono.
We extend our sincere condolences to the Hartono family and to all at the Djarum Group.
Under the family’s leadership, the Club has entered a new chapter in its history, and we remember him with gratitude… pic.twitter.com/o9YGHm7qiu
Italy star Sandro Tonali will undergo an MRI scan today to learn the extent of a muscle injury suffered during Wednesday’s Champions League match against Barcelona.
Italy and Newcastle will wait for the outcome of Tonali’s medical tests today, Gazzetta reports.
The Italian midfielder was forced to be substituted during the second half of a Champions League match against Barcelona on Wednesday due to a suspected muscle injury.
Newcastle coach Eddie Howe admitted after the match that Tonali is in doubt for the next Premier League fixture against Sunderland, but the Italy national team is even more concerned as the Azzurri will play in the World Cup play-off next week.
Sandro Tonali plays for Italy in Moldova during the 2026 World Cup qualifier (@azzurri)
The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in the semi-final in Bergamo on March 26, and if they progress to the Final, they’ll play away against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Tonali was one of the Italy players with a guaranteed spot in the squad and in the starting XI, so coach Gennaro Gattuso will be hoping for good news from Newcastle today.
Italy World Cup winner Luca Toni praised Harry Kane following Bayern Munich’s 4-1 win over Atalanta last night: ‘Coming from a top No.9 like you, it’s special words,’ the English forward replied.
During his post-match interview with Prime Video Italia, Kane said he was “proud” of his goals, especially the second one.
“It’s one of my favourite goals in my career,” said the English star.
“It’s a mixture of skill, technique, balance and obviously, the finish as well. In the moment, it felt really special.”
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich scores his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Ex-Italy and Bayern Munich star Toni commented on the game as a pundit for Prime Video and told Kane: “I’m in love with him in footballing terms, because he’s one of the last physical centre-forwards. There are many false nines, but he’s the best centre-forward in the world right now.”
The Bayern Munich star replied: “I appreciate it. Coming from a top No.9 like you, it’s special words, thank you.”
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan are ready to offer Leon Goretzka a €5m-a-year contract until 2029, while Lazio’s Mario Gila is the Rossoneri’s top defensive target for the summer.
Milan are preparing to strengthen their team for 2026-27, when they’ll likely return to the Champions League.
Latest Milan transfer updates on Goretzka and Gila
The club’s main target for the summer is a centre-forward, but the Serie A giants will sign at least one player in each department.
As for the central midfield, free agent Leo Goretzka has long been on the club’s radar.
Milan’s domestic rivals, Juventus, are also interested in Goretzka and have already opened preliminary talks with his entourage. Still, according to Gazzetta, Milan hope to beat the Bianconeri with an offer worth €5m per season for the next three years.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 20: Nicolo Barella of Italy battles for possession with Leon Goretzka of Germany during the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal leg one match between Italy and Germany at Stadio San Siro on March 20, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Milan’s main target in defence is Lazio’s Gila, whose contract expires in 2027. The former Real Madrid Academy player is unwilling to extend with the Biancocelesti, so he could leave in the summer for €20m to €25m.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Mario Gila of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Rafael Leao of AC Milan during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Igli Tare, now a Milan director, is on excellent terms with the defender’s entourage, as he was the one bringing Gila to the Olimpico in 2022.
Fiorentina have travelled to Poland without the injured Manor Solomon, Tariq Lamptey, Luca Lezzerini and Niccolò Fortini, as well as Marco Brescianini and Daniele Rugani, who are not part of the Fiorentina UEFA squad.
Multiple sources claim that Roberto Piccoli will once again lead the Fiorentina attack as Italy star Kean is available, but will start on the bench.
David de Gea is also expected to rest, making room for Oliver Christensen between the sticks.
According to Gazzetta and Tuttosport, Jack Harrison will start as a right winger with Jacopo Fazzini on the opposite flank.
The winner will face AEK Larnaca or Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina in action during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Rakow vs. Fiorentina – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast on TNT Sports 6 and online through Discovery+ in the UK and Ireland. It is also available for US fans on Paramount+. Football Italia will provide live coverage via a live blog.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Jacopo Fazzini of ACF Fiorentina in action during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Donyell Malen’s Roma and Santiago Castro’s Bologna meet at the Stadio Olimpico tonight in the second leg of the Europa League Round of 16.
It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT). The first leg in Bologna last week ended in a 1-1 draw.
Roma are still short of options in attack with Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Paulo Dybala and Matias Soulé injured and Lorenzo Venturino out of the UEFA list.
Bologna are without the suspended Juan Miranda, as well as Lorenzo De Silvestri and Eivind Helland, who are not part of the Rossoblu’s European squad.
Multiple sources, including Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta, claim that Stephan El Shaarawy will start as an attacking midfielder for Roma, leaving Lorenzo Pellegrini on the bench.
Italiano will look to Tommaso Pobega, Lewis Ferguson and Remo Freuler in central midfield, and to Federico Bernardeschi, Castro and Jonathan Rowe up front.
The winner will face Aston Villa or Lille in the quarter-finals.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Zeki Celik of AS Roma is challenged by Remo Freuler of Bologna during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Roma vs. Bologna – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 8 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Donyell Malen of AS Roma acknowledges the fans following the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Roma vs. Bologna – probable line-ups
Roma (3-4-2-1):Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso; Celik, Kone, Pisilli, Wesley; Cristante, El Shaarawy; Malen.
Allegri’s choices: a three-year deal for the German to overtake Juve. The Lazio centre-back has convinced everyone.
Tonali, World Cup anxiety
Injured with Newcastle, Italy is on alert for the play-off
We have the derby left
Roma-Bologna (21), the second leg resumes from 1-1. Fiorentina (18:45) defends a 2-1 lead against Rakow.
Ruthless Bayern, Atalanta concede four more
Germans with Real in the quarter-finals, Liverpool will face PSG
Corriere dello Sport
Europa League verdict
64,000 at the Olimpico for Roma-Bologna: it’s the 22nd derby of Italy. It restarts from 1-1. The winner will face Aston Villa or Lille. Kick-off at 21:00 CET.
In & Out
Gasp against Italiano, challenge for the quarter-finals
Gian Piero: ‘Conscience clear.’ Wesley: ‘Red card against Como? Serious and unacceptable incident.’ Castro launches the challenge to Malen. Vincenzo: ‘They are favourites.’ Bernardeschi and Rowe in the trident.
Conference: Viola 2 to eliminate Rakow (18:45).
Juve move: Alisson on target
Inter bring Stankovic Jr. back home
Leao and Milan: unstable relationship
Premier Napoli: Conte’s assault
Bovo emotion: ‘Unique happiness.’
He scored with Watford after 506 days from the last time: ‘I missed it.’
Atalanta, another collapse. Osi out.
Tuttosport
Juve, first issue
Comolli likes restes, Spalletti, somebody like De Gea
The choice of the next goalkeeper reflects a difference of opinion between the director, fascinated by the Frenchman from Toulouse, and the coach, who would rather go for a more experienced goalkeeper, such as the Spaniard Vicario or Dibu Martinez. Alisson and Carnesecchi are the dreams. Manninger: ‘I’d trust one between Di Gregorio and Perin.’ Lucio waits for Chiellini’s return to define the renewal: the salary could rise to 6m.
Toro, pathway for Livakovic
Seven Barcelona goals, Tonali anxiety
Injury for the Azzurro: alarm ahead of the World Cup play-off. Ruthless Bayern: another goal-fest against Atalanta.
Napoli-owned striker Noa Lang was stretchered off and needed oxygen after suffering a freak injury during Galatasaray’s Champions League game against Liverpool.
The Turkish team lost 4-0 on the night at Anfield, overturning the 1-0 first leg victory from Istanbul in the Round of 16 tie.
How Lang got badly hurt
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MARCH 18: Noa Lang of Galatasaray A.S. reacts to a thumb injury as Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konate and Curtis Jones of Liverpool interact with him during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Galatasaray SK at Anfield on March 18, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Lang came off the bench to replace Sacha Boey, but with 10 minutes left to play, he went into the advertising board on the side of the pitch and got his hand caught in the mechanism.
The Dutch international immediately fell clutching his hand and medics rushed over to treat him, with players from both Liverpool and Galatasaray visibly shaken from what they could see.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MARCH 18: Noa Lang of Galatasaray A.S. is stretchered off by medical staff after going down with an injury to his thumb during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Galatasaray SK at Anfield on March 18, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Lang was given oxygen to help him deal with the pain and then stretchered off to a nearby ambulance, so he could be taken to hospital.
Napoli paid €25m to buy Lang from PSV Eindhoven in July 2025, but he did not get along with coach Antonio Conte, so was loaned out to Galatasaray in January.
There is an option for the Turkish club to buy him outright for €30m at the end of the season.
Raffaele Palladino admits Atalanta changed their gameplan and were still swept aside by Bayern Munich in the Champions League. ‘We faced probably the best side in Europe right now.’
La Dea knew that their chances of qualification were slim to non-existent after the 6-1 first leg defeat, but wanted to give a better account of themselves at the Allianz Arena.
They were only 1-0 down at half-time here to a Harry Kane penalty, but the England international scored again after the restart, followed by Lennart Karl’s angled drive moments later.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
“We wanted to play with pride, we changed our gameplan and tried to sit a bit deeper, giving our all against a very strong team,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.
“I have to compliment Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany, the whole club, because we probably faced the best side in Europe right now. You’ve got to just be honest and accept the result on the pitch.”
Nearly 4,000 Atalanta fans made the journey from Italy for this match, and had the added difficulty of a local transport strike affecting their trip to the stadium.
“We tried to give our all, the objective was to salute our many fans with a better result than the first leg, and they were again fantastic tonight,” added Palladino.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Raffaele Palladino, Head Coach of Atalanta, acknowledges the fans following the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The coach had attempted some experiments for the first leg, including a four-man defence, so did he have regrets over that approach or did Atalanta learn valuable lessons for the future?
“Hindsight is easy, we probably could’ve done some things differently, but then today we had a different plan and sat deeper, but it didn’t change a lot. Bayern Munich are a complete squad in every sense, they will always find a way to play through you and break you down,” insisted Palladino.
“We learned a great deal in these two matches, because playing at this level forces you to step up and accept your limitations with great humility. We have to congratulate our opponents.”
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Raffaele Palladino, Head Coach of Atalanta, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Atalanta were the only remaining Italian representatives in the Champions League and now they are out, so what is the difficulty compared to these other European contenders?
“The biggest difference is how quickly the ball moves around,” explained Palladino.
“You might not notice it as much on television, but up close you see how quickly it is passed, they always pass it onto the correct foot, they control at pace, shake off defenders and also have peaks of sprinting speed that is higher.
“I think we have to change from the youth academies, because when we play teams like Bayern Munich, it seems like a different sport. We’ve all got to focus more on individuals and these basics from the early years, because there is a clear difference.”
La Dea are the only side who managed to get through the play-offs, eliminating Borussia Dortmund 4-1 in the second leg after losing the first 2-0.
Atalanta were also the only Serie A side still in three competitions, as the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio ended 2-2.
“We have the Coppa Italia, which is an objective we care about, because we want to bring silverware to Bergamo and Atalanta got so close to winning several times in recent years without managing it, so that would be a dream,” commented Palladino.
“At the same time, it is also worth direct access to the Europa League. We also have Serie A, and the next two rounds against Verona and Lecce, then there are head-to-heads with Roma, Juventus and Bologna.
“We know that we started from way back, I arrived and we were in 13th place, now we are in seventh, so we’ve made that climb up, I will continue to ask a lot from my players, because it’s still wide open to the end.”
A miracle was required after losing the first leg 6-1 at home, and La Dea only conceded in Munich from a retaken Harry Kane penalty.
However, Kane struck again after the restart, with Lennart Karl’s angled drive and a Luis Diaz lob on the counter-attack, with Lazar Samardzic late on grabbing a consolation goal by nodding in the corner.
De Roon makes Atalanta history tonight
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Marten De Roon of Atalanta BC is challenged by Aleksandar Pavlovic during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He came off the bench for his 435th appearance in the Atalanta jersey, equalling the club record set by Gianpaolo Bellini.
“It is a great achievement, 435 is a lot of games, but I don’t want to stop here, I want to keep going. It is an honour to have played so many times for Atalanta.”
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Lennart Karl of FC Bayern Munich scores his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
This means Bayern Munich will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, with PSG vs. Liverpool, Barcelona-Atletico Madrid and Arsenal against Sporting CP.
“We have a lot to learn from this team,” noted De Roon. “We tried to press them at home and that didn’t work, so today we sat deeper, and they still scored four goals.
“We played against a truly extraordinary opponent, we’ve learned from this and have to lift our heads again straight away in Serie A.”
La Dea were the only remaining Italian team in the Champions League, so it is disappointing to see them swept aside 10-2 on aggregate.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Mario Pasalic and Isak Hien of Atalanta react during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
“Italian teams have much to learn from these sides, in their movements and their pace. We are too static, too tactical, and even the referees in Europe let play flow much better without stopping and starting all the time,” explained De Roon.
“Today, Kane was playing as a striker, a right-back and a left-back at different times. You have to run so much to keep up.
“I think Bayern Munich are the favourites to win the Champions League, they impressed me so much tonight, and that was without Jamil Musiala, Michael Olise and Joshua Kimmich. We’ve got to be as humble as they are.”
Atalanta have plenty to focus on, as the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio ended 2-2, while they are still in the fight for European places in Serie A.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe confirms Italy international Sandro Tonali ‘has a groin, sort of hip problem’ after going off injured against Barcelona.
Newcastle United went on to lose 7-2 on the night and were eliminated from the Round of 16.
Tonali concern grows for Italy
BARCELONA, SPAIN – MARCH 18: Marc Bernal of FC Barcelona is challenged by Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Barcelona and Newcastle United FC at Camp Nou on March 18, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
With the World Cup play-offs coming up against Northern Ireland, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso will be anxious to know if the problem for Tonali is serious.
Speaking to the media after the match, Newcastle manager Howe was asked if Tonali was a doubt for this weekend’s game against Sunderland.
“It looks like he’s got a groin, sort of hip problem. I thought he performed really well in the first half and we really missed him in that second period.”
Italy have already lost Mattia Zaccagni today for the World Cup play-offs, as the Lazio wide attacker was ruled out for several weeks by a muscular injury.
Marco Verratti, who had been tipped for a potential call-up, has also sustained an injury and will not be available for the Azzurri.
Atalanta are out of the Champions League after another rough night with Bayern Munich, as Harry Kane scored twice in a 4-1 result on the night, 10-2 on aggregate.
The 6-1 first leg defeat in Bergamo meant a miracle was needed to reach the quarter-finals, but La Dea made the trip without suspended Yunus Musah, giving Charles De Ketelaere his first start since meniscus damage on February 5, with Giacomo Raspadori back on the bench. Bayern had Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise banned, plus Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich, Leon Klanac, Alphonso Davies and Jamal Musiala injured. Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig recovered from concussion to take the gloves.
Luis Diaz pounced on a poor Isak Hien header back, but couldn’t find the net from a tight angle, while Raphael Guerreiro scuffed a finish straight at Marco Sportiello.
Pavlovic stung Sportiello’s gloves from the edge of the area, but VAR intervened when Giorgio Scalvini charged down a Kane volley with his elbow when trying to turn and tuck the arm into his body.
VAR was involved again because when Sportiello parried the Kane penalty, it was confirmed he was off his line, so it had to be retaken and this time Kane sent him the wrong way to convert.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich scores his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Scalvini volleyed off target from the edge of the area, then nodded down a cross for Mario Pasalic to force a desperate one-handed save from point-blank range at the near post.
An acrobatic Gianluca Scamacca volley and Raoul Bellanova low drive were straight at Jonas Urbig after the restart, but Guerreiro steered wide of the near post with the inside of the left foot.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Munich celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Kane added a second when he somehow managed to squirm between Hien and Odilon Kossounou to then in one sweeping motion fire into the far top corner.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 18, 2026
Moments later there was a third, as debutant Deniz Ofli robbed Bellanova and Bayern moved it quickly from left to right, Luis Diaz finding the Lennart Karl angled drive relatively undisturbed.
Atalanta thought they had a penalty on the hour mark when ex-Napoli defender Kim Min-jae blocked a Kamaldeen Sulemana cross and it flicked up onto his arm. However, VAR evaluated and suggested the arm was in a natural position.
MUNICH, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Mario Pasalic and Isak Hien of Atalanta react during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Bayern München and Atalanta BC at Football Arena Munich on March 18, 2026 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Pasalic had a free header on Bernasconi’s cross, but nodded it into the ground and made it easy for Urbig from a very promising position.
Moments later, Scamacca stumbled to spark a deadly counter-attack, as Luis Diaz out-sprinted Kossounou and chipped the on-rushing Sportiello into an empty net.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 18, 2026
Atalanta still had some chances, as Bellanova got away down the right and forced a save at the near post, and from the resulting corner Scalvini nodded over.
Just like in the first leg, Atalanta fans had something to cheer when Raspadori’s corner was flicked on by Pasalic for the Lazar Samardzic header at the back post.
Bayern Munich march on and will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Bayern Munich 4-1 Atalanta (10-2 agg)
Kane pen 25, 54 (B), Karl 56 (B), Luis Diaz 70 (B), Samardzic 85 (A)
Dominik Szoboszlai is currently flourishing for Liverpool, but former Milan director Zvonimir Boban reveals ‘we had a deal, then it didn’t go through.’
ZAGREB, CROATIA – OCTOBER 25: Former footballer Zvonimir Boban looks on prior to kick off of the UEFA Champions League group E match between Dinamo Zagreb and AC Milan at Stadion Maksimir on October 25, 2022 in Zagreb, Croatia. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
Boban had been a director at Milan from the summer of 2019 to March 2020, when he was fired after bitterly criticising the owners.
It was during this brief period that the Rossoneri had their hands on the promising young talent who had just joined RB Salzburg and had a release clause worth just over €20m.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – MARCH 18: Dominik Szoboszlai of Liverpool celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between Liverpool FC and Galatasaray SK at Anfield on March 18, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“Obviously I like Szoboszlai, we had already closed a deal for him, then it didn’t go through,” Boban told Sky Sport Italia this evening in his role as pundit for their Champions League coverage.
“He’s a great player, I’m happy he won the war with himself and became a real player.”
Szoboszlai was eventually sold to RB Leipzig for €36m in January 2021, then moved on to Liverpool for a transfer worth €70m in the summer of 2023.
According to Boban, his career path has above all benefited from a change of position into a much deeper role.
“Szoboszlai started out as a Number 10, in Salzburg and for Hungary, playing behind the striker. It was a problematic position, though. He didn’t have the pace or the ability to take men on to be a real Number 10, it wasn’t his style at all.
“Now he has been transformed into a pure Number 8, which was the only logical move to make him a champion. He has such extraordinary talent, he sees the game and has the lightness of touch that few in the world can boast,” concluded Boban.
Vincenzo Italiano insists ‘it is an honour for Bologna to be’ in the Europa League last 16 and warns ‘the value of the Roma squad is higher in every way.’
It is all to play for after the first leg ended 1-1, and is decided at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).
This stadium has fond memories for the Rossoblu, as they beat Milan last season to win the Coppa Italia Final here, their first piece of silverware in over 50 years.
Italiano notes Bologna progress
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Vincenzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We are here, we’ve honoured this competition with many strong performances and deservedly getting through the play-offs.
“It was our objective to reach this stage and now we are here against a strong opponent, in a passionate atmosphere. We will try to have our say and do everything we can to cause them problems.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Players of Bologna acknowledge the fans following the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Italiano had said after the first leg that the 1-1 result meant Roma had a 51 per cent chance of going through.
“I stand by that, we have to give triple our potential to get through. We have to be realistic, the objective was to reach the last 16 and we achieved it, so we should be happy just being here and we celebrated after the group stage with an enormous cake.
“I’ve been in European football for a few years now, I know the Europa League is tough. There are top teams like Porto, Aston Villa, Stuttgart, Lyon, so it’s an honour for Bologna to be here.”
Bologna are out of the Coppa Italia and struggling in Serie A, so trying to go as far as possible in the Europa League is also a target for the season.
“It is an important game that can give us a boost going into the final weeks of the season, but it is not a crossroads. We know who we are and what we want,” assured Italiano.
“When you face Roma here, the atmosphere is different. We already experienced that and know what to expect, along with the added enjoyment of playing in Europe.
“We won’t let ourselves be intimidated, it is going to be an intense match and we need quality. It’s always a game with intensity if Gian Piero Gasperini is the coach.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, embraces Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Italiano is eager to point out that if any Serie A side is going to aim for Europa League triumph, it is probably Roma.
“The value of their squad is higher than ours, in every way. It is proved by their position in the Serie A table, by the level of their individual players, and then add in the atmosphere.
“It’s a game where both sides need a victory, so there can be no calculations, we have to play an open and attacking match. Quality makes the difference.”
Raffaele Palladino insists Atalanta are ‘proud to represent Italy’ in the Champions League against Bayern Munich and ‘will never forget’ how their fans reacted after a 6-1 defeat.
It kicks off at the Allianz Arena in Munich at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Michael Olise of FC Bayern Munich is challenged by Lorenzo Bernasconi and Mario Pasalic of Atalanta during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Although we saw some remarkable comebacks in the Champions League in recent years, recovering from a 6-1 home defeat would require a sporting miracle.
The main focus for La Dea here is to give a better account of themselves than in the first leg and play with pride, especially as almost 4,000 fans made the trip to Germany.
Palladino inspired by Atalanta fans
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Raffaele Palladino, Head Coach of Atalanta, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It’s fantastic to be here and we are so proud to be playing in this stadium against such a strong opponent. We are proud to represent Italy as the only side in the Round of 16, and to see so many of our fans come here to be with us,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.
“We will never forget that they applauded us after the final whistle of that 6-1 defeat, we want to play for them, and hope tonight to go under the away end to salute them with a better result.”
Yunus Musah is suspended this evening and Giacomo Raspadori is back on the bench, but Charles De Ketelaere gets his first start since suffering meniscus damage in his knee on February 5.
There is also a change in goal, with Marco Sportiello preferred to Marco Carnesecchi.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Fans of Atalanta show their support prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I believe in all my lads, from first to last, I reward them for what they show me in training. Sportiello knows this competition, he is an extraordinary guy and he deserved this opportunity tonight,” explained Palladino.
It has not been a great period for Atalanta in general, as their last victory was the 4-1 Champions League result against Borussia Dortmund on February 25.
That was followed by three draws and two defeats between Serie A, the Coppa Italia and Europe.
“We won’t forget that we conceded six goals in the first leg, so naturally we want to prove ourselves. We know that we are up against one of the strongest teams in Europe, but we want to challenge ourselves and grow with this experience.
“Above all, we want to play for our fans and give them something to cheer this evening. We will sweat through that shirt tonight.”
The midfielder was in the starting XI for the chaotic encounter at Camp Nou, which had Barcelona winning 3-2 at half-time after a 1-1 first leg result in England.
He was down hurt and clutching the side of his left thigh after a lunging tackle at the by-line, eventually replaced by Joe Willock.
Italy fear for Tonali fitness
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 28: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James’ Park on February 28, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
This will cause concern for Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, because Tonali would be one of the first names in the list for the upcoming 2026 World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland.
It remains to be seen how bad the situation is for Tonali, and whether or not he will be available for Italy’s crucial path to the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA.
The 6-1 first leg defeat makes qualification for the quarter-finals frankly improbable, but they were still applauded off the field by their fans at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.
That spirit is what carries the team here to Munich against one of the favourites to win the Champions League outright, as almost 4,000 fans made the trip to Germany.
De Ketelaere admires Atalanta fan attitude
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Atalanta BC coach Raffaele Palladino issues instructions to his player Charles De Ketelaere during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and FC Internazionale at New Balance Arena on December 28, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Many have come here, it’s wonderful that they are supporting us even after last week’s game, we saw how positive and wonderful our fans are. It’s great to play for them,” De Ketelaere told Sky Sport Italia.
The Belgium international is back in the starting XI for the first time since suffering meniscus damage in the 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Juventus on February 5.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Fans of Atalanta show their support prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I am really eager after being out for a month, it was tough for me, so I want to get back to playing at my level, and this is a good game to do it in.”
Atalanta have struggled lately, as they are the only Italian side in March stretched out over three tournaments, so are without a victory since beating Borussia Dortmund 4-1 on February 25.
That was followed by three draws and two defeats between Serie A, the Coppa Italia and Champions League.
“We said to ourselves that this is a Champions League game, we must enjoy the evening, and try to prove that we are capable of having our say,” concluded De Ketelaere.
La Dea lost the first leg 6-1 in Bergamo and therefore need tantamount to a miracle to continue through to the quarter-finals, but do at least want to give a better account of themselves.
Giacomo Raspadori is fit for the bench, while Yunus Musah is suspended, but Giorgio Scalvini returns from a ban.
De Ketelaere gets his first start since the Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Juventus on February 5, when he damaged the meniscus in his knee.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Serge Gnabry of FC Bayern Munich scores his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He made his comeback off the bench as a late substitute in Saturday’s 1-1 Serie A draw with Inter.
The Belgian completes the attack with Scamacca and Kamaldeen Sulemana, with Ederson and Mario Pasalic in midfield.
Atalanta’s last victory was the 4-1 Champions League result against Borussia Dortmund on February 25, followed by three draws and two defeats between Serie A, the Coppa Italia and Europe.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 07: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta BC scores their team’s first second goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Udinese Calcio at New Balance Arena on March 07, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Bayern Munich have a long absentee list to deal with, including suspended Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise.
Goalkeepers Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich and Leon Klanac are all injured, so it had seemed for a while as if 16-year-old Leonard Prescott would get the gloves.
However, Jonas Urbig recovered in time after suffering concussion during the 4-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach on March 6.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Michael Olise of FC Bayern Munich celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The other injuries are to Alphonso Davies and Jamal Musiala, while Hiroki Ito is still not at 100 per cent either.
Unlike the first leg, Kane returns to lead the attack, with support from Luis Diaz, Raphael Guerreiro and 18-year-old Lennart Karl.
Former Napoli defender Kim Min-jae starts along with Milan transfer target Leon Goretzka.
Bayern Munich vs. Atalanta line-ups
Bayern Munich: Urbig; Stanisic, Tah, Kim, Bischof; Pavlovic, Goretzka; Karl, Guerreiro, Luis Diaz; Kane
Bayern Munich bench: Bärtl, Prescott, Upamecano, Gnabry, Jackson, H Ito, Laimer, Deniz Ofli, Manuba, Pavic
Paolo Vanoli confirms Moise Kean ‘is ready to play’ for Fiorentina in the Conference League trip to Rakow. ‘I’ll only say I’m satisfied when we have definitively achieved our objective.’
The first leg saw the Viola turn it around to win 2-1 in stoppages with a last-gasp Albert Gudmundsson penalty.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 16: Coach Paolo Vanoli of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 16, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“Now we’ve got to remember that is in the past, and tomorrow we are playing for qualification against a side that caused us quite a few problems in the first leg.
“We need to recharge the batteries, mentally as much as physically, and I think the result in Cremona will help us to do that.”
The big question marks are over the fitness levels of Kean, who has struggled in recent weeks with a recurring ankle issue.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Cher Ndour of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Moise was on the bench in Cremona, which means he was available. We’ll decide tomorrow if he plays from the start or comes off the bench, but he is ready to play,” assured Vanoli.
“I am not looking further ahead than tomorrow’s game. We care about this competition, we must respect it and will do our best to get through to the next round. As always, I’ll choose the best possible line-up.
“Even when we were in a more difficult moment in Serie A, I always said we had to take it one game at a time. We have an objective, we are against a side that defends ruggedly and can counter-attack dangerously, so we must be concentrated.
“We’ve seen that such a slender advantage counts for little at international level. What we need is to recognise that nobody dominates for 90 minutes, there are matches within matches, and if you go behind then you must have the clear head to turn it around, or to control an advantage in those situations.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 12: Albert Gudmundsson ac f scores a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 round of 16 first leg match between ACF Fiorentina and Rakow Czestochowa at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 12, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina had won 3-0 away to Jagiellonia in the Conference League play-offs, then lost by the same result at home, squeezing through in extra time.
Now they are back in Poland and this time have the advantage from the first leg at the Stadio Franchi.
“They have different playing styles in possession, but what unites them is how aggressive they are going forward,” explained Vanoli.
“Jagiellonia have more technique and quality, Rakow are more physical and love to run into space, but also defend very well. Polish football is growing and these are teams who made their mark on the international stage in recent years.”
Vanoli was drafted in by Fiorentina to replace Stefano Pioli on November 7, so how would the coach judge his work so far after nine wins, six draws and 11 defeats in all competition?
“My work only ends once the season is finished, and then we can judge together. Since I arrived, we’ve had ups and downs on this journey, and Fiorentina probably doesn’t deserve to be in this situation, but we did well to recognise where we were.
“It took a while to understand how to turn things around, but the victory against Cremonese was another step forward, even though there are still another 10 points we need to pick up to secure safety.
“I will only say I’m satisfied when we have definitively achieved our objective.”
The Seleccion is warming up for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico, and was meant to be facing Spain in La Finalissima between the winners of the European Championship and Copa America.
However, it was scrapped after they failed to agree on the date or venue, so instead Argentina are going to play Guatemala on March 31.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Coach Lionel Scaloni has seen the good performances of Como in Serie A and the Coppa Italia, rewarding Nico Paz and creative midfielder Perrone with a call-up.
Inter had feared Lautaro Martinez would travel across the globe even though he is recovering from a month out injured, but they have decided to spare him this strain.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Inter captain Lautaro Martinez has made it clear that he wishes to return to his boyhood side Racing Club in Argentina once his time with the Nerazzurri comes to an end: ‘Obviously it depends on a lot of things, but my dream is to return’.
Lautaro has spent the last eight years of his career in Milan with Inter, for whom he has scored 129 goals from 262 Serie A outings and with his 171 goals across all competitions, he currently ranks as the club’s fourth all-time highest goalscorer and is only two away from tying third.
As things stand, Lautaro has over three years remaining on his current deal with the Nerazzurri, expiring in the summer of 2029, and at 28 years of age, he insists that he still has plenty to give at the highest level of the game.
But, once he is ready to leave Inter, a return home to Racing Club would be the ‘dream’ for El Toro.
Lautaro opens up on ‘dream’ return to Racing Club
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“Returning to Racing is my desire,” Lautaro said in a recent interview (via La Gazzetta dello Sport).
“I’m trying to convince my wife and she supports me. Obviously it depends on a lot of things, family, but also how I’m doing physically. But my dream is to return to play for Racing for at least a year.
“I still have three years on my contract with Inter, I’d like to stay at the highest level for a long time. I feel good, I’m still young, but in the future I’d love for my children to see the love that the Racing supporters show me.”
Diego Milito is now the club President at Racing. During his playing days, he had a similar career trajectory to the one that Lautaro spoke about, starting at Racing, going on to star up front for Inter, before returning to Argentina to finish where it all began.
“I talk to him every week,” said Lautaro. “He’s always there for me and always was at the beginning of my career. He wrote to me after I got injured, we talked about Racing not doing so well, I also sent him a message of support for the club.”
Reports in Italy claim that Juventus are in contact with Jorge Mendes, the agent of Manchester City star Bernardo Silva, who remains a target for the Bianconeri on a free transfer this summer.
Reports Juventus in contact with Bernardo Silva’s agent
Reports from various outlets over the last few weeks claim that Juventus are interested in a free transfer for Manchester City’s Bernardo, who will be out of contract at the Etihad at the end of the 2025-26 season and is not currently expected to renew his deal.
According to the latest updates from Matteo Moretto via the YouTube channel Fabrizio Romano in Italiano, Juventus are actively pursuing a deal for Bernardo and are in contact with the player’s entourage, which includes super agent Mendes.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JUNE 30: Bernardo Silva #20 of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between Manchester City and Al-Hilal at Camping World Stadium on June 30, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)
As things stand, however, the ball is very much in the player’s court. And, Juventus will be made to wait as Bernardo is unlikely to make any major decisions on his future until the end of the 2025-26 season with Manchester City.
The Bianconeri are certainly not the only side interested in a potential free transfer for Bernardo this summer. The Portugal international is said to have suitors in and outside Europe – Inter Miami and Galatasaray had been mentioned as potential destinations in reports elsewhere.
What is clear, according to Calciomercato.com, is that Juventus will need to convince Bernardo to take a pay cut if he is to move to Turin, as the reported €10m net salary that he earns in Manchester would make him comfortably the highest-paid player in Serie A next season.
Lazio winger Mattia Zaccagni picked up a muscular injury during his side’s recent 1-0 win against Milan and is now expected to miss Italy’s crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of the month according to the latest updates.
Zaccagni ruled out of crucial Italy and Lazio fixtures
Lazio have confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that Zaccagni is due for a spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury in Serie A on Sunday evening.
“During the Lazio-Milan league match, Mattia Zaccagni suffered a medium-scale post-traumatic muscular injury to the vastus medialis and vastus intermedius of his right thigh. The player has already started the recovery protocol,” Lazio’s statement read.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio competes for the ball with Fikayo Tomori of AC MIlan during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Zaccagni’s injury is expected to rule him out of Italy’s upcoming World Cup play-off campaign, which kicks off on March 26, according to Wednesday’s reports.
As per Calciomercato, Zaccagni is likely to miss around a month of action, which rules him out of the upcoming international break, plus potential club matches against Bologna, Parma, Fiorentina and Napoli.
It isn’t a case of his season being over, but Zaccagni is unlikely to return to the Bancocelesti starting line-up until the final few matches of the campaign.
La Gazzetta dello Sport notes that Bodo/Glimt played in ‘an old-school Italian style’ against Sporting CP in the Champions League, prompting some regret for Inter, as the perception of the Norwegian side appears to have been overstated.
Bodo had won the first leg against the Portuguese side 3-0, but suffered an incredible comeback in the second leg, with Sporting scoring three times in 90 minutes and two more in extra time.
“In Lisbon, Bodo set themselves up like in the first half at San Siro. Compact in defence, dug in behind in a fairly deliberate Catenaccio,” examined Gazzetta journalist Sebastiano Vernazza.
“Sporting CP, however, attacked with ferocity, forcing them to defend in the final 30 meters. Unlike Inter in the return leg in Milan, Sporting CP did an excellent job of preventing any counterattacks.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Match officials players and mascots line up on the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter lost both games against Bodo, first by 3-1 in Norway, and then 2-1 at San Siro. In the second leg in Milan, Bodo had remained very cautious, just like against Sporting CP on Tuesday.
“Bodo played in an old-school Italian style, just as they had in the first half at San Siro,” the journalist continued.
“In Milan, though, Inter had gifted the 1-0 in the second half with a misplaced pass by Akanji, and that effectively ended the tie. This time, it went differently. The defensive approach didn’t pay off because there were no counterattacks.
“The narrative around Bodo has been exaggerated. It’s been described as something it is not: an innovative team. Bodo play an adaptive kind of football. They aim to wear down the opponent and then strike on the break,” the Gazzetta journalist concluded.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale Milano heads the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FK Bodo/Glimt at Stadio San Siro on February 24, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Inter can dwell on their regrets. Bodo was not an insurmountable obstacle. However, had Inter gone through, they would have suffered against Sporting CP, and that’s another aspect to consider.
“After the Bodo-Sporting CP pairing was drawn, many thought Chivu and his players had missed a great chance to reach the quarter-finals. That would not have been the case.”
Inter remain the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan with nine league games remaining.
The World Cup play-off is just around the corner for Italy, and Gazzetta notes that the Azzurri must ‘beat fear’ after failing to qualify for the previous two editions.
Italy will be looking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2014, meeting Northern Ireland in the play-off semifinal next week.
Italy ‘insecure and afraid’ ahead of World Cup play-off
The match will be played in Bergamo on March 26, and if the Azzurri progress to the final, they’ll face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away.
“We are no longer a great side, but we are not mediocre either. We are insecure and afraid. Compared to previous collapses, the situation is very different,” wrote Gazzetta journalist Fabio Licari.
“Against Sweden in 2017, the head coach (Ventura) had effectively lost the dressing room. It was a modest Italy and an opponent, Sweden, that was awkward to say the least. We didn’t understand anything.
PALERMO, ITALY – MARCH 24: Alessandro Bastoni and Joao Pedro Galvao of Italy look dejected during the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qualifier knockout round play-off match between Italy and North Macedonia at Renzo Barbera Stadium in Palermo, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“Five years later, against North Macedonia, it was the opposite. Overconfidence, already thinking about the final with Portugal before getting past the semi-final,” the journalist continued.
“It was a psychological mistake before a technical or tactical one: 32 shots, 32 touches inside the box, 16 corners; almost absurd statistics. That night taught us that the unbelievable can happen. Now we are certainly better equipped and less arrogant.
“We need to shake off the nihilism that paralyses us at the first sign of trouble, even against weaker opponents. Northern Ireland won in Luxembourg and lost 3-1 in Germany and 1-0 in Slovakia. It won’t be easy, but let’s be honest: we are stronger.
“In the possible final, we would face Bosnia or Wales. Dzeko’s side narrowly beat Cyprus, San Marino and Romania at home, and lost to Austria. In Cardiff, Kazakhstan, Leichtestein and North Macedonia have been beaten, but Belgium won there. Wales would be tougher because of their Premier League tempo and a fiery atmosphere, but they are not unbeatable.
“It almost sounds ironic, given our history. We are not favourites, but we can compete with Tonali, Donnarumma, Calafiori at a Premier League level, Kean, Retegui and Esposito in attack, and Dimarco as a top European wing-back. The others, however, have an advantage: nothing to lose.”
Gian Piero Gasperini insists that there is ‘no clear difference’ between the two sides as Roma prepare to host Bologna for the second leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening.
Gasperini previes Roma vs. Bologna second leg: ‘Attention is crucial’
The tie is level at the halfway stage after a 1-1 draw between the two sides at the Dall’Ara last Thursday. The winner of tomorrow’s decider will go on to face either Lille or Aston Villa in the quarter-finals.
Roma have been the stronger of the two sides over in Serie A this season, leading Bologna by nine points and two positions in the league table, but Vincenzo Italiano’s side boast the better form, with four wins from their last five league matches, while Roma have only won once in that period.
Concerningly for the Giallorossi, Manu Kone, who missed out on the first leg last week, is a doubt again ahead of the second leg.
“There’s a little risk and a bit of precaution, we’ll see. Kone’s doing a bit worse,” head coach Gasperini said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday.
Gasperini went on to describe tomorrow’s match as: “A decisive game, different from the league. There’s no draw. There’s a possibility of going beyond the 90 minutes. These are different games that always fascinate me.”
Gasperini was also asked for his thoughts on Roma’s recent slump in Serie A results.
“Fans’ reactions must be accepted,” he said. “We have to work to our best, get results and bring happiness to the supporters. We have the complete commitment of the players and we are calm. What they’re doing is positive.
“We’ve also had some good games over these last 40 days. Of course, there have been games where we’ve gone under a little. We had some personnel difficulties, but these aren’t excuses. In Genoa and Como, there were also incidents that impacted the games.
“Now we’re not in our best moment, we’ve had to pay for injuries and various other situations, but we’ve never had the wrong attitude. We might have players who don’t play well at times, but there’s another game tomorrow and we want to do our best.”
Reverting his attention to the task at hand in the Europa League, Gasperini said: “These are games where incidents can be even more decisive.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“This is the second leg, so attention is crucial. It’s like a final, a one-off match. We have to be solid and connected. I think these are two teams that can bring a bit of pride to our (Italian) football in this situation.”
On the role that the Stadio Olimpico crowd will have to play tomorrow night, Gasperini said: “It’s always been red hot. There might be something even more tomorrow given the importance of the game.”
And on Stephan El Shaarawy, he added: “He was out for 40 days. He’s had a couple of weeks of recovery, he played on Sunday. We won’t be able to count on Venturino tomorrow either. We make choices based on who’s available. Stephan could be a crucial player.”
Lastly, Gasperini was asked what he makes of the opinions from the Bologna camp that Roma remain the favourites heading into Thursday’s second leg.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, embraces Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The ambition is the same for everyone,” he insisted. “Bologna are behind in the league but are recovering now. They were in the Champions League last year. There’s no clear difference between the two teams. We understand the importance of the game.”
Newcastle and Aston Villa have reportedly made Marcus Thuram aware of their interest ahead of a potential summer move, with the Inter striker said to favour a switch to the Premier League over the Saudi Pro League.
Premier League sides Newcastle and Aston Villa have already made initial approaches in their pursuit of Inter star Thuram, according to FcInternews.
Aston Villa and Newcastle interested in Thuram
Thuram is in his third season at the Stadio Meazza, and multiple sources in Italy have claimed that both the Nerazzurri and the French forward will likely seek a fresh start in the summer.
There have been reports of interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, but according to FCInternews, Thuram would prefer a move to the English Premier League.
Thuram has scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 35 games across all competitions this season, and his contract includes an €85m release clause. The 28-year-old, however, has only scored once in his last nine Serie A appearances.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Thuram is said to be fully focused on the final part of the season with Inter, after which he’ll decide on his future with the club.
Thuram’s contract at the Stadio Meazza runs out in June 2028.
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Roma wing-back Wesley Franca insists that the incident that led to his sending off during Saturday’s Serie A defeat against Como ‘wasn’t a foul’, and says that the Giallorossi need ‘100% concentration’ if they are to overcome Bologna in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Wesley reacts to Como red and previews Bologna second leg
The Brazilian wideman joined head coach Gian Piero Gasperini for Wednesday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the second leg of the Europa League round of 16 tie between Roma and Bologna at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night. The tie is currently level after a 1-1 draw at the Dall’Ara last week.
For Wesley, this was also an opportunity to review his most recent Serie A match. Roma were beaten 2-1 away against Como in a massive game in the race for the Champions League positions, and the Brazilian was controversially sent off just over an hour in with the scores still level at 1-1.
Wesley was sent off for a second bookable offence, but he insists that there was no foul in his clash with Como’s Assane Diao.
Like the incident that led to Pierre Kalulu’s wrongful sending off in the Derby d’Italia between Juventus and Inter in February, the incident could not be referred to VAR for review as it was a second yellow card offence and not a straight red. For the same reason, neither Kalulu nor Wesley’s suspensions were overturned either.
“It wasn’t a foul. I was aware I was on a booking and didn’t want a red,” Wesley protested (via TMW).
“I was on his side, leaning on him because he was falling on top of me. I was convinced afterwards that I hadn’t committed a foul, but for others, I did. It was a decisive incident which changed the game.”
Moving on from the Como incident, Wesley went on to explain why he has been able to hit the ground running so comfortably in Italy after joining Roma from Flamengo over the summer.
“Italian football is different to Brazilian football, but with a lot of concentration, it’s difficult for others to get past me, just as it’s easier for me to dribble against them,” he explained.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Wesley of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“The coach asks me to attack, to not make mistakes and to make the right decisions. I’m improving and playing helps that.”
And looking ahead to Thursday’s clash against Bologna, he added: “For me, it’s a dream to play in Europe. We care a lot. Careers are built in these tournaments, it requires 100% concentration. We have to be ready tomorrow.”
And on his individual battle with Federico Bernardeschi during the first leg, Wesley said: “He’s very strong with some great characteristics. The duel was great. We’ve played against a lot of strong players, but he’s very good.”
Roma supporters were in attendance for Watford’s 3-1 victory over Wrexham in the EFL Championship to watch Edoardo Bove score his first goal since suffering a cardiac arrest on Wednesday night: ‘Even if you leave Rome, you won’t be alone’.
Bove back amongst the goals for the first time since 2024: ‘It wasn’t like that in my dreams!’
Bove is back to doing what he loves best after netting in the 94th minute to seal a 3-1 victory for his new club, Watford, over Championship promotion hopefuls Wrexham on Tuesday evening.
This was Bove’s first competitive goal since October 2024, when he scored in a thumping 5-1 victory for Fiorentina against his boyhood club, Roma.
Fiorentina’s midfielder Edoardo Bove celebrates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match ACF Fiorentina vs AS Roma at Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence, Italy, 27 October 2024. EPA-EFE/CLAUDIO GIOVANNINI
Not long after that, Bove collapsed on the pitch early on in a Serie A match between Fiorentina and Inter, and it was later confirmed that he had suffered a cardiac arrest. Bove later had an internal defibrillator device fitted, which prevents him from playing professionally in Italy, but does not prohibit him from playing in the UK.
This was a situation similar to the one that involved Christian Eriksen, who joined Brentford and later Manchester United after leaving Inter shortly after suffering a cardiac arrest while playing for Denmark at EURO 2020.
Despite spending over a year out of action, assessing his next steps after learning that a return to action in Serie A would not be possible, Bove joined Championship side Watford as a free agent in January.
He has since gone on to make six substitute appearances for the Hornets, and on Wednesday night, grabbed his first goal in England during a 3-1 victory over Wrexham at Vicarage Road.
“I had a lot of time to think about my first goal when I was coming back. To be honest, it wasn’t like this, as it was an easy one! In my dreams it was in the top corner,” Bove joked after full-time.
“But the celebration was unbelievable. I went directly to the fans and I’m so happy for the team who have supported me, and all the staff, physios and doctors who have been watching my situation carefully and trying to do their best to get me on the pitch.
“I’m so happy this happened today and I’m looking forward to what’s next.
To make the occasion extra special for Bove, he was being cheered on by a large section of UK-based Roma supporters, who held up Giallorossi scarfs and a banner that read: ‘Even if you leave Rome, you won’t be alone’.
Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma reveals why he pulled his arm back before Federico Valverde’s first goal during last week’s Champions League match against Real Madrid: ‘The first thing I thought was to do as little damage as possible.’
Donnarumma’s Manchester City have been eliminated from the Champions League Round of 16 by Real Madrid, suffering a 5-1 aggregate defeat.
Donnarumma’s post-match interview after Man City 1-2 Real Madrid
The Premier League giants lost both ties against the Merengues, first 3-0 in Madrid and then 2-1 in Manchester.
Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick at the Bernabeu last week, with his first goal coming after a dribble past Donnarumma. The goalkeeper rushed off his line but didn’t touch the ball at the edge of the box, likely wary of handling the ball outside the area.
During a post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia on Tuesday, ex-Milan and England coach Capello asked Donnarumma about his decision to move that way.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 11: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates after saving a penalty by Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Real Madrid CF and Manchester City FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 11, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
“The first goal you conceded in Madrid. Why didn’t you stretch out your hand? Did you think that you were outside the box?” Capello asked.
“It was so fast that the first thing I thought was to do as little damage as possible and get out of my way as much as I could,” Donnarumma replied.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 11: Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid is fouled by Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City which leads to a penalty to Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Real Madrid CF and Manchester City FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 11, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“My goal was to move out of the way and not harm the team. Even watching the replay, I saw that the ball was close to my hand, but at normal speed, everything is much harder. I watched the replay and indeed it passed very close to my hand.”
During the same interview, Donnarumma said Manchester City won’t change their style of play after their Champions League exit and looked forward to “crucial games” with the Premier League giants and the Italy national team.
Former Fiorentina and Salernitana star Franck Ribery has explained why Atalanta found it quite so difficult to play against his beloved Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie last week, and says that he ‘hopes’ to coach in Italy himself one day.
Ribery reflects on Atalanta vs. Bayern first leg
Atalanta were demolished 6-1 in their own back yard by Bayern Munich in last Tuesday’s Champions League round of 16 first leg. The two teams will meet again at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Wednesday evening, but with such a big deficit in the scoreline, this feels like more of a formality than anything for La Dea.
Speaking in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ribery explained why Atalanta found it quite so difficult against Bayern last week.
“Bayern are not just strong, but they’re also doing really well at the moment. For me, they’re the favourites to win the Champions League,” said Ribery.
“They win because they have a great culture. There’s a lot of professionalism and at the same time, it feels like a family. I’m happy to be considered a legend to their supporters. We made history with everything we won. We did it together.”
MUNICH, GERMANY – MAY 28: Franck Ribery poses for a picture with the Bundesliga trophy and the DFB cup during an event at FCB Erlebniswelt on May 28, 2019 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)
Despite being a team that tends to dominate possession, Ribery believes that the work Bayern did off the ball is what made life so difficult for Atalanta last week.
“I watched the first leg carefully. Atalanta found a lot of difficulties, Bayern also had a lot of experience on their side. They’re a team that’s used to controlling possession and even out of possession, they press very high and never leave their opponents any time or space to play out. That’s how it was in Bergamo too. Atalanta didn’t have the time or space to play.
“I have one thing to say about them, though. Well done to the Atalanta fans for supporting their team in a beautiful, sporting way. That gives an important image for all of Italian football.”
After calling it a day on his playing career in 2022, Ribery returned to Italy to do his UEFA A coaching license at Italy’s Coverciano.
“My goal is to become a coach, and in the meantime, study,” said Ribery. “Coverciano is the ideal place. I’m happy to be there, I feel at ease. I’ve met a lot of good people to share my journey with.”
EMPOLI, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 27: Frank Ribery of US Salernitana looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Empoli FC and US Salernitana at Stadio Carlo Castellani on September 27, 2023 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Ribery hasn’t yet decided where exactly he wants to begin his coaching career, but he says that he would always be open to opportunities in Italy.
“I don’t know where yet, let’s hope for Italy, a country that I love,” he said. “But, I would also accept the opportunity to get involved in other countries.”
According to Tuttosport, Milan director Igli Tare has met with one of Mateo Retegui’s agents as the Rossoneri aim to sign a new centre-forward, but the Italy star would need to lower his salary for a summer transfer.
Milan sporting director Tare has reportedly met a member of Retegui’s entourage, Alessandro Moggi.
Milan: Tare meets Retegui’s agent
According to Tuttosport, Retegui is once again on the Rossoneri’s radar as the Serie A giants look for a new centre-forward for 2026-27.
Milan are unlikely to make Niclas Fullkrug’s move permanent at the end of the season and Retegui was already on their agenda in the past, including last summer, when the Italy international joined Al-Qadisiya from Atalanta for nearly €70m.
HONG KONG, CHINA – AUGUST 20: Mateo Retegui of Al Qadisah looks on during the Saudi Super Cup semi final between Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah at Hong Kong Stadium on August 20, 2025 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Retegui is aware that he’d need to lower his €16m-per-season salary if he were to join Milan in the summer.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Sander Berge of Norway battles for possession with Mateo Retegui of Italy during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
According to the report, the Rossoneri could offer €5m per year until 2031, while Al-Qadisiya’s asking price is around €45m- € 50m.
Tuttosport confirms that Retegui is not Milan’s only target in attack for next season, as Fiorentina star Moise Kean is also on the Rossoneri’s shopping list.
Serie A strugglers Cremonese have officially sacked their head coach Nicola.
Cremonese sack Nicola: official statement
“Cremonese announce that Mr. Davide Nicola has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the first team,” the club said in a statement on Wednesday.
“The club wishes to thank the coach and his staff for the professionalism, commitment and dedication they have shown in their daily work since they arrived in Cremona.”
Cremonese had had a fantastic start to the season, even winning on their 2025-26 Serie A debut away at Milan.
However, they now find themselves in the relegation zone, three points below safety.
On Monday, they suffered a heavy 4-1 home loss to Fiorentina, which eventually led to Nicola’s sacking.
The Grigiorossi have not won any of their last 15 Serie A matches, losing seven of their last eight league meetings.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Coach Davide Nicola of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Genoa CFC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 15, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Their most recent win dates back to December 7, 2025.
According to several reports, including Corriere della Sera, Cremonese will appoint ex-Milan coach Giampaolo, who will sign an 18-month contract.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 12: US Cremonese head coach Davide Nicola looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Cremonese at Allianz Stadium on January 12, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
According to Tuttosport, Joshua Zirkzee’s agent has informed Juventus that his client is available for a summer transfer, while Gazzetta reports that the Bianconeri are still keen on Randal Kolo Muani, especially with PSG interested in Jonathan David.
Latest Juventus transfer news on Zirkzee and Kolo Muani
Jonathan David and Lois Openda have failed to impress in their first season at the Allianz Stadium, so the Serie A giants will listen to offers for the pair this summer.
According to Gazzetta, PSG director Luis Campos, who had brought David to Lille, is considering a reunion with the Canadian star in Paris.
David scored 87 goals in 178 Ligue 1 matches before joining Juventus as a free agent last summer, and the Bianconeri would consider a swap deal involving the Canadian forward and Kolo Muani, who won’t remain at Tottenham beyond the summer.
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Randal Kolo Muani of Tottenham Hotspur during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal CF at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Juventus already tried to re-sign Kolo Muani in the January window, but Tottenham refused to part ways with the French striker, who is still destined to return to Paris at the end of his loan spell in June.
Both Kolo Muani and David earn circa €6m/7m per season, so a potential swap deal would suit Juventus financially, also because PSG value Kolo Muani at €40m.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and West Ham United at Old Trafford on December 04, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
According to Tuttosport, on the other hand, a possible Bianconeri target for the summer is ex-Bologna star Zirkzee.
The Dutch forward has reportedly decided to leave Manchester United at the end of the season, and his agent, Kia Joorabchian, has informed the Bianconeri directors that his client is available for a summer transfer.
Reports in Italy claim that any tensions between Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic following Milan’s 1-0 loss against Lazio over the weekend have been put to bed after a handshake and in-depth video analysis session in training on Wednesday.
Milan put Leao and Pulisic issue to bed
Leao cut a frustrated figure after being taken off during the second half of Milan’s 1-0 loss against Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday with 25 minutes of regular time left to play and with his side 1-0 down at the time, in need of a goal.
The Portugal international rejected a hug on the touchline from head coach Massimiliano Allegri after being hauled off, but many have suggested that Leao was also annoyed with teammate Pulisic, who had failed to slip him in on goal just a moment before the substitution was called.
Despite being Milan’s two leading goalscorers this season, Leao with nine Serie A goals from 22 appearances and Pulisic with eight from the same number of outings, they have only managed to score a combined two goals from 595 minutes while playing alongside each other.
Leao is currently on his longest goalscoring drought since joining Milan in 2023, still without a goal in 2026, and Leao has only recorded two from his last 10 outings.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan shoots whilst under pressure from Patric and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Lazio during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Milan squad had an in-depth video analysis session when they returned to training on Tuesday, which is normal procedure after a win, loss or draw, but there was a particular focus on the attacks involving the two star forwards.
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Milan players reflected upon the Lazio match with a sense of calm, Leao is said to have apologised to his teammates for his behaviour on the sidelines and he and Pulisic are reported to have symbolically shook hands on the pitch.
Inter are the runaway Serie A leaders, have the best attack in the league and have been involved in some of the most spectacular games of the season, but they are not the only ones.
Despite a 1-1 home draw against Atalanta in Serie A Week 29, Inter still managed to extend their lead over second-placed Milan as the Rossoneri fell to a 1-0 away loss at Lazio.
The Nerazzurri have an eight-point lead over their city rivals and it comes as no surprise that, according to analysis from BettingTips4You, Cristian Chivu’s team are favourites to win the Scudetto this term.
Inter have been, by far, the most consistent team in Italy’s top flight this term, with 22 wins from 29. Their stalemate against Atalanta was only their second of the season, and the Nerazzurri have lost only five league games so far.
Como and Milan have conceded fewer goals than the Nerazzurri, but Inter have the best attack in Italy with 65 goals in 29 matches, an average of 2.24 per game.
Statistics highlight that the Nerazzurri have been involved in some of the highest-scoring matches in Serie A during the 2025-26 campaign.
To date, their 6-2 win over Pisa in Week 22 is the single Serie A match with the most goals scored this term.
It is followed by another Inter match, their 4-3 loss against Juventus at the Allianz Stadium in Turin in September 2025.
Inter are also the only Serie A club to have won an away game 5-0 this term. It happened in February when Chivu’s men visited Sassuolo and returned home with a comfortable victory.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 15: Diego Carlos of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AS Roma at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When it comes to entertaining matches, however, it’s impossible not to mention Como.
The team coached by Cesc Fabregas recently beat Roma 2-1 at home, breaking into the top four in the standings.
“When you build a squad, you implement an idea, you study your players carefully, their character, their identity,” Fabregas said at full time.
“Learning to handle the result and the game in a certain way is a question of solidity, courage and trust. That takes months to develop, not weeks. Games like this show it is becoming natural, not forced.”
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 15: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AS Roma at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Como recorded one of the biggest wins of the campaign on January 24, beating Torino 6-0 at home. The reverse fixture had been just as good for the Azzurri, who had already beaten the Granata 5-1 away at the end of November.
With 50 goals conceded in 29 rounds, Torino are one of the weakest defences in the league. They started the season with a 5-0 loss against Inter at San Siro, the same result with which Juventus beat strugglers Cremonese in January.
Another big win for the Old Lady came on February 1, when they secured a 4-1 away victory against Parma.
Chelsea coach Liam Rosenior made headlines on Tuesday, handing a note to Alejandro Garnacho in the dying minutes of a 3-0 loss against PSG: ‘He’s out of his mind,’ said Fabio Capello, while Alessandro Costacurta added: ‘As a footballer, I wouldn’t have seen it as a way to get the players on my side.’
Chelsea were eliminated from the Champions League Round of 16 on Tuesday, suffering a 3-0 home loss against title holders PSG.
The Blues were knocked out with a 2-8 aggregate defeat, but despite the obvious outcome in the dying minutes, their coach, Rosenior, continued to give tactical instructions to his players.
At minute 84, he handed a note to Garnacho, who had been introduced a few minutes earlier.
The Argentine winger didn’t seem overly eager to relay the coach’s tactical instructions to his teammates, especially since the match was practically over.
Italian journalist Paolo Condò, one of the most popular in the country and a member of the Ballon d’Or voting board, joked that Garnacho was thinking, ‘I should have joined Napoli.’
Pundit Paolo Di Canio, a former West Ham, Lazio and Juventus striker, added: “Look at the way he entered the field. I was also a bit of a prude, but these new coaches are almost philosophers now.
“It seems like a joke, but it’s not. They strongly believe that even the attitude in the final minutes is important. They believe in it. I see many who do the same thing despite losing 3-0. They want to show they study until the end; it’s the new generation. I understand it, but I’m like: ‘What are you doing?’
Capello: Chelsea players will ‘laugh’ at Rosenior
Capello and Costacura were surely tougher on the Chelsea boss: “He’s out of his mind,” said Capello.
“He did something that will make the players laugh. That’s what they think. You saw his [Garnacho’s] face when he entered the pitch with that note; he was like: ‘What are you saying to me?’
Alessandro Costacurta Commissioner of FIGC looks on before the International Friendly match between Italy U21 and Belgium U21 at Friuli Stadium on October 11, 2018 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“When you do smart things, you are involved, but when you do something like that, how are you involving somebody?”
Ex-Milan defender Costacurta, a five-time Champions League winner, concluded: “I was a player, and if something like that had happened to me, I wouldn’t have seen it as a way to get the players on my side. It’s possible that there’s a new trend, but you can see the attitude from Garnacho’s face.”
Atalanta will look to Nikola Krstovic in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Bayern Munich, but the task ahead for La Dea appears overwhelming.
It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
La Dea suffered a 6-1 loss in the reverse fixture played in Bergamo last week, so there’s little doubt over who will reach the quarter-finals.
Atalanta have travelled to Germany without the suspended Yunus Musah, but the rest of the team is available, including Charles De Ketelaere and Italy international Giacomo Raspadori.
As reported by Sky Sport and Gazzetta, De Ketelaere is even expected to start as an attacking midfielder, joining Kamaldeen Sulemana and centre-forward Krstovic.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Players of Atalanta and FC Bayern Munich head out onto the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
A few selection doubts remain in midfield, with Mario Pasalic and Marten de Roon battling for a central spot, while either Davide Zappacosta or Mitchel Bakker is set to feature on the left.
Bayern vs. Atalanta – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast on TNT Sports 4 in the UK and Ireland and Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Serge Gnabry of FC Bayern Munich scores his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
In the last month without Hakan three draws and one defeat, but Chivu reunites with his regista in Florence.
Pulisic and Leao: it’s peace. Rafa apologised: Let’s start again.
Juve, David to leave to re-sign Kolo Muani
Atalanta, Dea pride
Chelsea and City out, Bodo crushed.
Corriere dello Sport
Exclusive interview
Kenan Yildiz
‘My strength is the normality.’
The parents, the brother, Can Uzun, Bayern, Turkey and Juve: the simplicity of a phenomenon.
‘Del Piero is a legend, I’ve just started.’
Spalletti
‘The prince of football is the boy next door’
‘I’ve always played to improve; the money is a consequence. When I was eight, I played against those aged 18.’
‘The renewal? I’ve immediately felt trust here in Turin. In Germany, they didn’t believe in me.’
‘Spalletti? A man of emotions. Allegri? I owe him this life. The role? Better on the left.’
Tuttosport
Juve: Zirkzee with Vlahovic
DV9 renewal, it’s almost done and the Dutchman emerges again.
The former Bologna striker has a new issue with Manchester United and is pushing to leave; the Bianconeri could reshape their attacking strategy. Thuram warning for Sassuolo: Koopmeiners ready. The stats on the ability to quickly resume the play justify Perin replacing Di Gregorio.
‘Now a feat at San Siro.’
Toro behind the scenes: what D’Aversa told the team.
Retegui and Milan: contact!
Meeting around the table: the issue is the salary. Fofana: ‘The change of role will cost me the World Cup.’ Leao under pressure replies with the…Gospel. NBA Europe: Cardinale pushes. Arena in San Donato?
Dea for the honour, two English sides out.
City don’t make the comeback against Real, Chelsea crushed by PSG (Kvara scores again). Arsenal OK, epic Sporting CP.
Gianluigi Donnarumma played ninety minutes tonight as Manchester City crashed out of the Champions League, with a 5-1 defeat on aggregate but a modest 2-1 defeat on the night.
City went into the game as strong favourites, needing to overturn the 3-0 loss in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, and the visitors making a number of changes, including leaving a number of key personnel out of the team.
However, Donnarumma’s side had a nightmare start when Bernardo Silva was given a straight red card for preventing a goal with his hand just 21 minutes into the match, and Vinicius Jr scoring the resulting penalty.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 11: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City walks out prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Real Madrid CF and Manchester City FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 11, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Donnarumma makes huge save but can’t stop City exit
Erling Haaland scored in the 41st minute to give the hosts a lifeline but, a man down, the task became much more difficult.
In the second half, City pushed, despite their man disadvantage.
Real Madrid had their fair share of chances too and Italian Donnarumma pulled off an impressive save to deny Tchouameni with twenty minutes to play.
After a whipped corner from Trent Alexander-Arnold, Tchouameni got his head to it, forcing an acrobat save out of the Azzurri shot-stopper.
City’s remaining efforts were in vain and Vinicius Jr doubled his tally to put the icing on the cake in stoppage time.
Donnarumma will be disappointed to exit the tournament he won less than twelve months ago with PSG but must recover his focus ahead of an important month for club and country.
Inter Milan and AC Milan sit jointly at the top of Serie A’s shirt sponsorship earnings table, but the gap between the division’s biggest clubs and the rest remains stark, and for one club, the commercial silence is deafening.
Both Milan clubs currently earn €30 million per season from their respective shirt partners, according to reports gathered by CalcioMercato.
Inter receive their fee from Bettson, whose logo appears as Bettson.sport on the jersey, a workaround required under Italian laws prohibiting direct betting sponsorship.
Milan’s deal with Emirates is worth the same figure this season, though a recently signed renewal will see that rise to €35 million from 2026/27 onwards.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio kicks the ball during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Serie A shirt sponsors: Juventus, Napoli & Roma rise as Lazio go sponsorless
Juventus, meanwhile, have seen a dramatic fall in commercial income in this area.
Having gone a full season without a shirt sponsor, Save the Children carried no financial value, the club have returned Jeep to their jersey, but through an internal Exor arrangement worth just €19 million this season, rising to €23 million next year.
It is a far cry from the €45 million the previous Jeep deal delivered at its peak. Napoli’s MSC Crociere deal is worth €9 million this season and is also set to increase in the coming campaign.
Roma have just unveiled a new shirt partner of their own, Eurobet.live, another betting-adjacent workaround, worth €8 million this season and €13 million from next.
Across the city, however, Lazio remain the only club in Serie A without a shirt sponsor, with Claudio Lotito yet to secure any commercial partnership for the jersey.
Some of the most eye-catching figures come from family-owned clubs with internal sponsorship arrangements. Fiorentina receive €25 million from Mediacom, a company connected to the late Rocco Commisso’s family, while Sassuolo’s Mapei deal is worth €18 million.
At the other end of the scale, the numbers are considerably more modest. Bologna receive €3 million from owner Joey Saputo’s business, Atalanta earn €5 million from Lete, and Cagliari pick up €3.6 million from the Sardinian regional government.
Torino (Suzuki, €2.35m), Parma (Prometeon, €1.5m), Udinese (Friuli Venezia Giulia region, €1.5m) and Genoa (Pulsee, €1.2m) follow, with Verona, Lecce and Como all on €1 million.
Pisa bring up the rear with €700,000 from Cetilar, who also sponsor the stadium.
Raffaele Palladino has called on Atalanta to produce a performance worthy of their remarkable journey as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League last-16 second leg at the Allianz Arena, knowing that overturning a 6-1 first-leg deficit represents one of the most daunting tasks in European football.
The occasion carries additional historical significance. Tomorrow’s match will be Atalanta’s 100th game in UEFA competition, and also the fixture in which Marten De Roon could equal a club appearance record.
Palladino confirmed the Dutchman will be involved, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, adding with a smile that the milestone is “a great satisfaction, a historic result for him and for Atalanta.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Giacomo Raspadori of Atalanta battles for possession with Federico Gatti of Juventus during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Atalanta boss Palladino gives updates on Raspadori & De Ketelaere
The head coach was also able to deliver positive team news, confirming that Giacomo Raspadori trained with the squad on Tuesday and will be available, while Charles De Ketelaere and Ederson have also returned to fitness after injury absences.
“We have missed these players enormously and we are delighted to have them back,” Palladino said. “We will try to build up their minutes carefully.”
On the match itself, Palladino’s message was simple and unambiguous.
“Tomorrow the team must play with pride,” he said.
“We have nothing to lose and everything to prove. We must be focused on ourselves, as we showed in the first leg, the details make the difference.”
He also pointed to the growth his side have shown since that heavy defeat, arguing that Atalanta’s response against Inter demonstrated a resilience that bodes well.
“Despite conceding six goals we managed to mature and react like a great team.”
Palladino was equally clear that the result is secondary to the performance.
“Recovering five goals is always a mountain to climb,” he acknowledged.
“But I want a match worthy of this club and this occasion. We are proud to be the last Italian side standing in the Champions League, and tomorrow we will fight until the very end.”
Francesco Pio Esposito’s agent has moved to dismiss speculation linking the young Inter striker with a move to the Premier League, insisting the Italian starlet is fully committed to his future at San Siro despite reported interest from Arsenal and Newcastle.
“Pio Esposito is happy at Inter and will be the club’s future for the next ten years,” he said. “The boy is in love with Inter right now.”
He also pushed back on comparisons being made between Esposito and former Inter striker Christian Vieri, arguing that such parallels only create unnecessary pressure for a player still finding his own identity.
“He needs to develop his own way of playing, comparisons like that serve no purpose.”
The agent’s words come amid growing interest from England, with both Arsenal and Newcastle understood to be monitoring Esposito’s situation ahead of the summer.
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Inter & Pio Esposito destined for one another as parties shrug off Arsenal & Newcastle interest
Inter, however, are not believed to be open to a sale unless a truly extraordinary offer arrives, and Giuffredi’s comments suggest the player himself has no desire to leave, with his contract running until June 2030.
The numbers back up the excitement surrounding him.
Esposito has already made 39 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing eight goals and six assists, a remarkable return for a player of his age operating at the highest level.
He has also caught the eye of Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, who is expected to call on him for the World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland and a potential final on 31 March.
It has been a rapid rise for a player who came through Inter’s academy alongside brothers Salvatore and Sebastiano, before a standout loan season at Spezia, where he scored 20 goals and helped the club reach the Serie B playoff final, convinced Inter he was ready for the first team.
Gianluigi Donnarumma haș been named in the starting lineup for Manchester City this evening, as they welcome Real Madrid to the Etihad Stadium with a 3-goal deficit to overturn from the first leg.
The Italian shot-stopper has been Pep Guardiola’s number one since he arrived last summer from Paris Saint-Germain.
He will need to be at his best tonight, with every goal the Premier League giants conceding tonight having a massive impact on their potential comeback.
LEEDS, ENGLAND – JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Donnarumma starts, Calafiori on the bench in UCL action
Meanwhile, Arsenal host Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium after the first leg finished all square at 1-1 in Germany.
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori is not included in Mikel Arteta’s starting lineup, with former Leverkusen man Piero Hincapie playing at left-back.
Calafiori received praise in the Premier League at the weekend after a tremendous scorpion block to deny Everton a first half opener.
The former Bologna man is, however, on the bench for the Gunners and may be deployed by Arteta later in the match.
Roma’s attempt to overturn Wesley’s red card suspension has failed, with the sporting judge rejecting their appeal and confirming the Brazilian will miss the club’s next Serie A fixture against Lecce.
Roma had argued the second yellow card shown to Wesley during Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Como was the result of mistaken identity, claiming the foul on Diao had actually been committed by Rensch rather than Wesley.
Under VAR protocol, a case of mistaken identity would be grounds for intervention, but the sporting judge ruled that no such error had occurred, stating there were no grounds to apply the relevant article of the regulations, according to CalcioMercato.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Wesley of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Blow for Roma as no grounds for Wesley suspension being overturned
The VAR analysis, as detailed on DAZN’s Open VAR programme, supports that conclusion.
Officials Fabbri and Gariglio reviewed the incident immediately and confirmed without doubt that Wesley, not Rensch, made the challenge, with his right leg clearly making contact.
The on-field referee also clarified that he had initially played advantage following a separate Pellegrini challenge before whistling for Wesley’s foul, which VAR confirmed was not on the ball.
The 2-1 result stands, Wesley’s suspension is upheld, and Gasperini will be without the wide man for the Lecce game.
The silver lining for Roma is that he will be able to give his all in the Europa League quarter-final second leg against Bologna, a match that carries enormous importance with the tie level at 1-1, with Tsimikas likely to cover against Lecce when the Brazilian takes his place in the stands.
Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that Michele Di Gregorio has lost his no.1 status for the remainder of the season and that Mattia Perin is expected to be Juventus’s go-to shot stopper until the 2026-27 season.
Di Gregorio has made a series of high-profile errors between the sticks for Juventus in 2025-26, which led to his being dropped for the last four matches between Serie A and the Champions League play-off second leg against Galatasaray.
Head coach Luciano Spalletti had hinted that he would give Perin a run of two or three games in an attempt to take some of the pressure off Di Gregorio, but that run has now extended to four matches, and La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that the situation is unlikely to change between now and the end of the 2025-26 season.
After that, there is a possibility that neither Di Gregorio nor Perin stay on with Juventus after the summer transfer window according to Tuesday’s report.
The Pink Paper claims that Juventus need to raise around €11m to avoid making a capital loss on Di Gregorio, who joined on loan with an obligation to buy from Monza for a reported €18m in the summer of 2024.
La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that there are still options for Di Gregorio elsewhere in Serie A, and that it is not out of the question that another side picks him up this summer.
Could Juventus replace both Di Gregorio and Perin this summer?
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 16: Mattia Perin of Juventus looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Juventus and US Sassuolo – Serie A TIM at on January 16, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Perin, meanwhile, is now 33, has never been Juventus’s first choice, and is unlikely to claim the no.1 spot if the Bianconeri are to bring in another stopper this summer, which reports elsewhere claim is likely to happen.
Perin had been linked with a move to Genoa during the January transfer window, and La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that it is not out of the question that he again seeks a move away for a sort-of ‘last dance’ as a no.1 in Serie A with just over a year remaining on his current Juventus contract.
Meanwhile, several other goalkeepers have been linked with moves to Juventus in recent weeks, including Liverpool’s Alisson Becker, Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Alisson Becker of Liverpool celebrates after Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool (not pictured) scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at City Ground on February 22, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Atalanta’s Marco Carnsecchi would be the ‘dream’ option for Juventus, but the 25-year-old is not expected to come cheap.
If Juventus are to bring in another goalkeeper this summer to serve as an understudy, La Gazzetta dello Sport has recommended a list that includes Lazio’s Ivan Provedel, Verona’s Lorenzo Montipo, Lecce’s Wladimiro Falcone, Cremonese’s Emil Audero and Bologna’s Federico Ravaglia.
Various reports suggest that Republic of Ireland international Troy Parrott is a potential option for Milan approaching the 2026 summer transfer window.
Reports Milan plotting move for AZ Alkmaar’s Parrott
Miguel Delaney of the Independent reports that Milan are ‘actively’ looking to sign a new striker this summer, that Parrott is a potential option for the Rossoneri and that his current club, AZ Alkmaar, are open to the idea of a sale this summer.
It is understood that Alkmaar will seek a fee in the region of around €30m (reported as £25m by outlets in the UK) to sell the Republic of Ireland international this summer.
Milan are not the only interested party. In fact, there are several sides across Europe keen on a potential deal for Parrott, including Fulham in the Premier League, Real Betis in LaLiga and VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga.
Parrot has come up with 28 league goals from 52 appearances in the Eredivisie since joining AZ Alkmaar from Tottenham Hotspur, where he began his professional career. The 24-year-old has 14 goals from 22 league appearances this season, plus four from four outings in the cup and nine from 13 appearances in the UEFA Conference League.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – NOVEMBER 16: Players of Republic of Ireland celebrate their sides third goal scored by Troy Parrott of Republic of Ireland during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Hungary and Republic of Ireland at on November 16, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by David Balogh/Getty Images)
Parrott also made history with the Republic of Ireland national team earlier this season. Back in November, he netted a brace in a shock 2-0 win over Portugal, and then provided a hat-trick in an eventual 3-2 win away against Hungary a few days later to secure his nation a surprise spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In doing so, he became the first ever player to score an away hat-trick for the Republic of Ireland side in a competitive fixture and also the first player to score a hat-trick for the Republic of Ireland since Robbie Keane 11 years prior.
The Lega Serie A have confirmed that Roma wing-back Wesley Franca will be suspended for one match and that Inter and Lazio head coaches Cristian Chivu and Maurizio Sarri are among those who picked up bans during the 29th round of 2025-26 fixtures.
Official: Wesley, Chivu and Sarri decisions confirmed after Serie A week 29
Three red cards were dished out by the officials during the 29th round of Serie A fixtures. The harshest of those punishments has been handed to Pisa’s Rafiu Durosinmi, who has earned a two-game ban for having kicked out at an opponent in an off the ball incident during his side’s 3-1 win over Cagliari.
Adam Obert was also shown a red card during Cagliari’s 3-1 loss against Pisa and has picked up a one-match suspension as a result.
Wesley was also sent off during Roma’s 2-1 defeat away against top-four rivals Como for what many feel was a harsh second yellow card offence. His ban has been upheld, and he will be suspended for Roma’s upcoming Serie A test against Lecce.
Parma’s Enrico Delprato, Pisa’s Michel Aebischer and Cremonese’s Warren Bondo have all now picked up five yellow cards for the season and will all be suspended for Serie A week 30.
Chivu has also been suspended for Inter’s upcoming trip to Fiorentina after being shown two yellow cards against Atalanta on Saturday, and Lazio’s Sarri has also been suspended for one match after leaving his technical area and making disrespectful comments towards the match officials against Milan.
Italy national team striker Mateo Retegui is back in Florence and is reportedly working individually one week early ahead of Italy’s World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of the month.
Retegui’s Italy training camp has already begun
Retegui currently plays for Al-Qadsiah, who sit in fourth place in the Saudi Pro League standings. The Argentine-born Italy international has provided 15 goals from 25 league outings so far this season.
Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, there will be no Saudi Pro League matches this coming weekend, which means that compared to the rest of his Italy teammates, Retegui has an extra week off ahead of the World Cup play-offs, which kick off on March 26.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Retegui has already arrived in Florence, where Italy’s Coverciano training base is located, has rented an apartment nearby and is expecting to train individually every day until the rest of the squad reports for duty after their league fixtures this coming weekend.
According to the Pink Paper, Retegui was concerned about the long pause that he would have had between matches, and decided to return to Italy a week early after phone calls with the FIGC and CT Gennaro Gattuso.
UDINE – OCTOBER 14: Mateo Retegui celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between against Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tuesday’s report states that Retegui’s training camp ‘has already begun’.
Retegui is one of several strikers expected to be called up to the Azzurri squad for this month’s World Cup deciders against Northern Ireland and either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fiorentina’s Moise Kean, Inter’s Pio Esposito and Atalanta’s Giacomo Raspadori are also expected to be included among Gattuso’s selections.
Retegui is Italy’s leading goalscorer since Gattuso was called in to replace Luciano Spalletti as CT last summer. The national team has scored 19 goals from six matches since then: Retegui with five, Kean with four, Esposito with three and Raspadori and Gianluca Mancini with two apiece. Matteo Politano, Sandro Tonali and Alessandro Bastoni have one each.
Northern Ireland head coach Michael O’Neill insists that Italy are ‘the team with everything to lose’ ahead of the meeting of the two nations in the World Cup play-off semi-final next Thursday, and believes that playing the match in Bergamo benefits the Green and White Army.
Italy will host Northern Ireland at Atalanta’s New Balance Arena in Bergamo for the World Cup play-off semi-final coming up on March 26. The winner of that match will progress to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in a one-legged play-off final on March 31 for a spot at the final tournament.
Italy have not yet announced their squad for the March international break, but are expected to by the end of this week. Northern Ireland confirmed their selections on Monday night, and O’Neill has given his verdict in front of the media at his press conference in Belfast.
O’Neill on Italy pressure, Tonali quality and a venue that ‘suits’ Northern Ireland
The Northern Ireland head coach admits that there is a clear difference in quality between the two sides.
Italy are expected to name a full squad of top-flight players, most of whom will have played in the Champions League at some stage this season, while Northern Ireland are only able to offer four Premier League players, 13 from the EFL Championship and eight from England’s third tier. They also have representatives from the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Championship and the 2. Bundesliga.
“I mean, they’ve got a bunch of players who play in Serie A, play for Inter Milan, Lazio, Roma, Napoli,” said O’Neill during his press conference on Monday night (via The Irish News).
“They also have players that play in the Premier League at top clubs as well. You know, Tonali is arguably as good a midfield player as there is in the Premier League. Calafiori at Arsenal as well. So, it’s going to be a very, very tough game. There’s no doubt about that.
“We’re going to have to step up. If you look at our squad there, there’s 13 players in the Championship. There’s four at Premier League clubs and the rest are League One or playing their football elsewhere.
“So, it is a big step up for us. But it’s a step up we’ve made in the past. I think we made it in the Germany game, albeit we didn’t get the results that we felt we maybe could have done. We have to try and make that step up again.”
Given the difference in personnel available, O’Neill believes that Italy are the ones with more pressure heading into the World Cup play-offs.
“If you look at this game, we’re the team with everything to gain. They’re the team with everything to lose,” he said.
“They have a lot of expectation as a football nation. Their players will have to deal with that. But that’s for them, we can’t really use it.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Players of Italy sing the national anthem prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We’ve just got to make the game as difficult for the opposition as possible and then those types of things will, I think, become factors in the game in terms of their mentality to the game and how we try and obviously make it more prevalent for them to think about things like that.”
Italy have won five of their first six matches since Gennaro Gattuso replaced Luciano Spalletti as CT, but fell to defeat against Norway on home soil in their most recent test, which sent them to the play-offs instead of the final World Cup tournament.
“If you look at this group, they’ve had a change of manager after two games. Gennaro Gattuso’s been in for six games. They lost their last game 4-1 at San Siro against Norway. A game where they played well in the first half to be honest, and led 1-0, but they would have been disappointed with how the game finished in the second half as well,” said O’Neill.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Erling Haaland of Norway celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“I personally went to a game in Bergamo on the 27th of December. I saw Inter and Atalanta play, so I know what the atmosphere is like.That was a good atmosphere at the game because, obviously it’s not a derby but they’re very close by, Bergamo and Milan, so there was a big Inter Milan away support there as well.”
O’Neill believes that Italy selected Bergamo as the host city for this play-off semi-final due to their ghosts at other venues, but insists that the New Balance Arena will make the Northern Ireland squad feel more comfortable compared to San Siro or the Stadio Olimpico.
“I think that possibly their history has made them make that decision. They’ve lost play-offs I think in the San Siro and as I touched on, their last game in San Siro against Norway. The outcome wouldn’t have been what they’d hoped for. So maybe they feel the smaller stadium brings less pressure. I don’t know.”
“For us the venue is fine. Most of our players play their club football weekly in venues of that size. They’re not running out in front of 80,000, 90,000 people every week. So I think the venue suits us.”
BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND – NOVEMBER 17: Players of Northern Ireland pose for a team photograph prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Northern Ireland and Luxembourg at Windsor Park on November 17, 2025 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have resumed their interest in Mason Greenwood, while Arsenal and Manchester United’s competition for Sandro Tonali has prompted the Bianconeri to continue talks with free agents Leon Goretzka and Bernardo Silva.
Juventus are preparing for next summer’s transfer campaign, although their priorities are Champions League qualification and Luciano Spalletti’s contract extension.
Juventus and Spalletti have already discussed possible reinforcements for 2026-27 and according to Gazzetta, the Serie A giants have once again targeted Marseille star Greenwood for the summer.
According to the report, Marseille might be forced to sell the Englishman for financial reasons if they miss out on Champions League qualification, but the price would be at least €50m.
Greenwood was already open to joining Juventus two years ago, but Marseille beat the Bianconeri to signing the ex-Manchester United man.
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United is challenged by Mason Greenwood of Olympique de Marseille during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Leon Goretzka and Bernardo Silva, both available as free agents over the summer, are among Juventus’ top targets in central midfield.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 28: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Everton at St James’ Park on February 28, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have been in talks with the pair in recent weeks, especially because their top target in the middle of the park, Tonali, has a high price tag and has been targeted by top Premier League clubs, especially Arsenal and Manchester United.
Northern Ireland have officially announced their squad to take on Italy and either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of March.
Italy will host Northern Ireland on March 26 in Bergamo for the World Cup play-off semi-final. The winner of that tie will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in the play-off final on March 31, which will be a one-legged decider for a spot at the final tournament.
The losing semi-finalists are due to play a friendly against each other on March 31 as well.
Northern Ireland head coach Michael O’Neill has named a bumper squad of 28 players for the upcoming play-off semi-final against Italy. The major absentee for the Green and White Army is Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season with a serious knee injury.
BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND – NOVEMBER 17: Conor Bradley of Northern Ireland runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Northern Ireland and Luxembourg at Windsor Park on November 17, 2025 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Italy are the clear favourites heading into the semi-final given their home advantage and the clear gulf in quality between the two squads.
Italy are yet to announce their squad, but it is expected that all of the players included will play for top-flight sides, and the majority of them for clubs who have participated in the Champions League in 2025-26.
For comparison, the Northern Ireland squad has just four Premier League-affiliated players: Sunderland duo Daniel Ballard and Trai Hume, Crystal Palace’s Justin Devenny, who has five league starts to his name this season, and Liverpool youngster Kieran Morrsion, who has only ever played 71 minutes of senior football at club level; his two appearances coming in domestic cup competitions.
Otherwise, the Northern Ireland squad features 13 players from the EFL Championship, eight players from EFL League One, and one apiece from the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Championship and 2. Bundesliga.
Confirmed Northern Ireland squad to face Italy and either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina
BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND – NOVEMBER 17: Jamie Donley of Northern Ireland celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Northern Ireland and Luxembourg at Windsor Park on November 17, 2025 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
Roma’s Neil El Aynaoui and his family were the victims of a terrifying robbery at the midfielder’s home in the capital in the early hours of Tuesday morning according to various reports in Italy.
El Aynaoui and family victims of terrifying break-in
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport and others, a gang of six armed individuals broke into El Aynaoui’s home in Castel Fusano, where several Roma and Lazio players live, at around 3 a.m. local time on Tuesday morning.
The robbers entered through a living room window after breaking off the grated covers and proceeded to confront El Aynaoui and his family with guns.
WALSALL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Boubacar Kamara of Aston Villa during the pre-season friendly match between Aston Villa and AS Roma at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on August 06, 2025 in Walsall, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
El Aynaoui was reportedly the first person in the house to be woken during the incident. He along with his mother, brother and their respective partners were locked in a room as the robbers proceeded to steal jewellery reported to be worth €10,000, a Rolex watch and a collection of designer handbags.
Unfortunately, El Aynaoui is not the first Roma or Lazio player to be affected by an incident like this. In recent years, Wesley, Mario Gila and Mario Vecino have also been victims of robberies of burglaries, as have Mattia Zaccagni, Toma Basic, Chris Smalling, Phillipe Mexes and Christian Panucci in years gone by.
El Aynaoui immediately informed his club of the incident, and he will not be involved in training with Roma on Tuesday ahead of Thursday’s Europa League round of 16 decider against Bologna.
Leao made headlines for the wrong reasons on Sunday night as he bitterly complained to coach Massimiliano Allegri after being subbed off in the second half of an away game at Lazio, which the Devil eventually lost 1-0.
Leao snubbed Allegri’s hug by pushing his coach away and then kicked and threw plastic bottles on the sidelines.
The Portuguese star remained silent for more than a day, but then posted an Instagram story on Tuesday, featuring a quote from the Gospel of Luke (chapter 1, verse 37), as SempreMilan highlights.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 01: Rafael Leao of AC Milan looks dejected during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AC Milan at Stadio Giovanni Zini on March 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The message, written in Portuguese, can be translated as: “Do what is within your power; the impossible is my job.”
Tennis star Jannik Sinner has become one of the most popular sportsmen in Italy, and when he’s not competing on the court, the World No.2 is known for his support for Serie A giants Milan.
Sinner has consistently dominated tennis predictions alongside Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz over the last few years, and back in September, the Italian was overtaken at the top of the World Rankings after holding the No. 1 spot for 65 weeks.
Sinner is only 24 but is already regarded as the best Italian male tennis player of all time, having won four Grand Slam tournaments: two at the Australian Open, one at Wimbledon and one at the US Open.
It goes without saying that Sinner has dominated the headlines in Italy in recent years, with his popularity close to, and sometimes surpassing, that of footballers. Something unthinkable until a few years ago for a country that breathes football day in, day out.
Before pursuing a career in tennis, the Italian was a talented skier from the age of three. Sinner is also a big football fan and has made no secret that his favourite club in Serie A is Milan.
Sinner showed his passion for the Rossoneri following a match against fellow Italian Fabio Fognini, an Inter supporter, at the Internazionali d’Italia in May 2022. After clinching a three-set victory, Sinner famously wrote ‘Forza Milan’ on a live TV camera.
The former World No. 1 was a guest of Milan in November 2023 for a Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund at San Siro.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: The AC Milan fans show their support during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On that Day, Milan ultras in the Curva Sud honoured the tennis champion with several chants before kick-off.
Sinner is also a close friend of Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma, who won the Champions League with PSG last season.
“Gigio and I have been friends for a long time,” Sinner said before last season’s Champions League Final between the Ligue 1 giants and Inter.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 13: Jannik Sinner of Italy lifts the Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy on the Clubhouse Balcony, following his victory against Carlos Alcaraz of Spain during the Gentlemen’s Singles Final on day fourteen of The Championships Wimbledon 2025 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
“We have our priorities, and he is about to play one of the most important matches of his life. Rooting for whom? I don’t want to say anything because I don’t want to put anyone in a difficult spot. I’m a Milan fan, but as an Italian, it would be nice if an Italian team won. But if it were Gigio, I’d be happy. I hope it’s a great match.”
Ultimately, Donnarumma lifted the cup with the big ears, beating Milan’s city rivals Inter 5-0 in Monaco. A few months later, the Italian captain joined Manchester City.
With Milan sitting second in the Serie A table this season, Sinner will be hoping to watch his favourite club play in the Champions League again in 2026-27.
Youssouf Fofana admits that having to adapt to a new role at Milan has been a big challenge, insists that he is still dreaming of a World Cup call-up despite being omitted from the France squad since 2024, and says that he is ‘divided’ as to whether or not he has had a ‘good’ season in 2025-26.
Fofana ‘unsure’ on Milan role, 2025-26 season ‘not good enough’
The Rossoneri midfielder sat down for an in-depth interview with l’Equipe, during which he discussed his preferred position, his tactical development since moving to Italy and the difficulties of standing out amongst a talented pool of French midfielders.
Fofana says that he had been used to playing just in front of the defence before he joined Milan back in the summer of 2024, but now, he features in more of a box-to-box role on the right of a midfield three.
“At first I had to learn on a tactical level,” Fofana told l’Equipe. “As we all know, Italy puts a big emphasis on that, it’s not a cliché at all. I thought I was coming with a good tactical background, but they really pay attention to everything.
“It took me a while to understand that you can play a very good 90 minutes here and in the end, it ends up 1-0 in favour of the opponent. That’s because you’ve been beaten tactically. It took me a while to get that efficiency and tactical discipline.”
Fofana says that there has been ‘two phases’ of his development since moving to Serie A: “I’m living (the second one) now. It’s a change of position,” Fofana said. “It’s as if for five years I’d looked at football in a certain way and now my perception is changing.
“I don’t see the pitch from the same angle. I don’t really have the same benchmarks. For example, when I played in front of the defence, I always knew there were two players behind me, another diagonally on the right and another on the left. I could make passes into those areas without looking.
“Now it’s completely different. I play on the right. When we don’t have the ball, I’m really high up, almost like a striker. When we have it, I’m between the lines. I used to go and get after these players.”
Fofana was asked what it is like to have to learn a new position at the age of 27.
He said: “When you’re told you’re going to play higher up, you’re happy at first. In the end, I learned that that’s not necessarily what I want. I do it for the team. I like to be at the start of the action, to control everything: the speed of my team’s play, the tempo, the ball recovery.”
And what has Fofana learned from this tactical repositioning?
“That I needed to play much faster. When I played in front of the defence, the player marking me was often a striker, who didn’t necessarily defend very well. Whereas here, the player who marks me is usually a defender, usually a tougher opponent. I have to be stronger, to take in more information than before.”
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Youssouf Fofana of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fofana says that he is unsure whether he would describe the 2025-26 season as a ‘good’ one on a personal level.
“It’s a very good question,” he said. “I agree to learn, but am I doing well for the season? Not good enough, I think. In the position where I play, there’s more focus on statistics, and I think I could have been more efficient.
“I could have had six goals this season and more assists, and then I might have told you that my season’s been good. Aside from that, I’m looking at the medium term. There’s the World Cup and I’m not sure that I’m expected to play in this position.”
Fofana was asked whether that is frustrating for him with the 2026 World Cup quickly approaching.
“At club level, I do it.. Especially when you’re in the mix to win a trophy. But will it help me in the future? I’m divided about that.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Youssouf Fofana of AC Milan competes for the ball with Nicolo’ Barella of Inter during the Serie A match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fofana has not been called up to the France national team squad since October 2024.
“At first it wasn’t a great experience. I wondered why I wasn’t getting called up. Then I started watching the matches and said to myself ‘okay Youssouf, there are other midfielders that are just as strong as you. Whether you’re there or not, the France team gets the same results, so you have to work and wait’.”
Italy and Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori opens up about his scorpion block during last week’s Premier League match against Everton: ‘I didn’t think about it too much, I just reacted.’
It allowed the Gunners to keep a clean sheet and ultimately secure a massive 2-0 win thanks to two late goals.
Calafiori: scorpion block my ‘best’ clearance so far
During a press conference on Tuesday, Calafiori spoke about his defensive action, admitting that it was probably the best clearance in his career so far.
“I think it is the best so far. Also, I think it was so important for the result and the team. I’m really happy about this,” the Italian told reporters before a Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen.
“I didn’t think about it too much. I just looked at the guy shooting and thought I had to take as much space as possible. I just reacted. As we say, we love to defend our house and our goal, and we try to do everything we can.
“It’s important to get a clean sheet. When we do, we usually win the game, so it’s really important to us.”
Arsenal are the Arsenal table leaders with a nine-point lead over Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand.
“I think especially now, from March on to the next few months, it’s the best part of the season as well,” added Calafiori.
“You started so early in the pre-season, and then you work so hard to get to this point, to be in the competition and to be so close to winning. I think it’s a dream to be here.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 28: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Arsenal FC and FC Kairat Almaty at Arsenal Stadium on January 28, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The Italian is in his second season in North London and is certainly enjoying the atmosphere at the club, on and off the pitch.
“I think we’re all friends. I love them, and I have a good relationship with them,” he said.
“We are friends, first of all. Obviously, then on the pitch you try to compete to get ahead of them, but we’re all friends, and they’re all really good players, I think.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
“Obviously, we love to chat in the dressing room. We love to help each other, and when it’s time to go aggressive on the pitch or sometimes just be more chill, just to help your teammate or the team at the end. Obviously, sometimes we see each other off the pitch, and I think that’s important.”
The Italian defender also spoke about his defensive movements at Arsenal: “We have a structure, and we have to respect all the principles and things we’ve been trying to learn since the beginning of the season. At the same time, I’m really good at doing what I do, finding this kind of place. But it’s not freedom. If I’m in that position, it means another player covers mine. You need a good structure to defend, it’s not casual, it’s structure.”
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