Antonio Conte is continuing his tradition of taking time off during the break for international duty, leaving Napoli training to assistant Cristian Stellini.
The coach had started doing this in November 2025 and felt it was beneficial for him to decompress, but also to give his players some time without his notoriously intense presence.
“It is commonplace in England, Chelsea and Tottenham both allowed me to do this,” Conte had said earlier this season.
“Seeing as for four months we play non-stop, I had this agreement with the club to take the pressure off. It is a breather both for me and those who remain behind at Castelvolturno.”
Conte takes time out from Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte and Juan Jesus after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
During the break for international duty and with so much of the squad therefore off around the world, Conte has returned to his family’s base in Turin for a few days.
He has left Napoli training for those who are still present in the capable hands of his long-term assistant Stellini.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Adam Marusic of SS Lazio reacts wiith Antonio Conte and Pasquale Mazzocchi of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on January 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Napoli have sent Alex Meret, Alessandro Buongiorno, Leonardo Spinazzola and Matteo Politano to the Italy squad for the World Cup play-offs, starting against Northern Ireland on March 26.
Also absent to represent their countries are Rasmus Hojlund, Stanislav Lobotka, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Scott McTominay, Billy Gilmour, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic and Mathias Olivera.
There had already been reports over the last few days that the Blaugrana were keeping an eye on Serie A to strengthen their defence, targeting Inter centre-back Alessandro Bastoni.
Now Sportitalia, backed up by Sport in Spain and Calciomercato.com in Italy, claim that Cambiaso has also been added to their list of transfer options.
Cambiaso had been close to Manchester City
DORTMUND, GERMANY – AUGUST 10: Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Kenan Yildiz during the pre-season friendly match between Borussia Dortmund and Juventus FC at Signal Iduna Park on August 10, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
Italy international Riccardo Calafiori reacted to Arsenal’s 2-0 loss against Manchester City on Sunday with a three-word message on social media: ‘We go again.’
Calafiori was also chasing his first trophy in England, but he still has a chance to lift his first piece of silverware with the Gunners, as Arsenal are still involved in the Champions League and the FA Cup and are the Premier League table leaders.
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)
Calafiori reacted to Arsenal‘s loss with a social media message on Monday morning: “We go again,” wrote the Italian defender.
Calafiori is now at Coverciano preparing for Italy’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.
Calafiori’s Instagram message after Arsenal 0-2 Manchester City.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Gian Piero Gasperini ‘raised his voice’ in the dressing room after a 1-0 win over Lecce on Sunday, yet the Italian tactician refused to speak to the media, allegedly because he had lost his voice.
Roma coach Gasperini didn’t hold a post-match interview after a 1-0 win against Lecce yesterday, officially because he had lost his voice during the match.
Gasperini’s outburst after Roma 1-0 Lecce
According to Gazzetta, however, the Italian tactician did make his voice heard in the dressing room at full-time, but was in no mood to face questions from the media afterwards.
Previous reports in Italy claimed that Gasperini’s future at Roma is uncertain as the Giallorossi have lost 14 games across all competitions this season and are once again struggling to secure a top-four finish.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Italy’s Delegation Chief Gigi Buffon admits the Azzurri feel ‘people’s scepticism’ but is confident that players are ‘used to handling every kind of pressure.’
Italy begin preparations for the 2026 World Cup play-off in Coverciano today.
Buffon: Italy must respect Northern Ireland
Gennaro Gattuso’s men will face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on March 26, and if they progress to the final, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Buffon spoke to Domenica Sportiva on Sunday night: “Now it’s the moment of the verdict. These 120 days have been an ordeal, but they have also helped bring something extra, a deep spirit and understanding that will be needed,” he said via TMW.
Italy have not qualified for the last two editions of the World Cup and have not played a knockout game in the tournament since 2006 when they went on to lift the trophy.
“It’s true, we can feel people’s scepticism, but I’m convinced that even the harshest critics will support Italy when the whistle blows,” Buffon said.
“Right now, above all, we need to send ourselves a message to make them change their minds.
“They are all very solid guys, used to handling every kind of pressure. The magic that the Italian national team can create goes beyond the current difficulties.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Gianluigi Buffon, Head of Delegation of Italy, looks on prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We must respect Northern Ireland, but I also believe that our team giving 100% will be enough to reach the Final. The players must be aware of their qualities,” Buffon concluded.
Alessandro Bastoni, Gianluca Mancini and Gianluca Scamacca will be assessed by Italian doctors today, while Federico Chiesa has already pulled out of the team as he was “deemed unavailable for the next two matches.”
The Liverpool winger has not played for Italy for almost two years, making his last international appearance in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 against Switzerland.
Milan star Leao will remain in Italy during the March break to recover from an adductor injury.
The Portuguese winger missed Saturday’s 3-2 win over Torino but was still expected to join his national team to be assessed by the national team doctors.
However, Italian sources, including Calciomercato.com, claim that his trip to Portugal has been cancelled, so the 26-year-old will remain at Milanello to continue his recovery.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 18, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Portugal international has been dealing with an adductor injury since the reverse fixture against Torino on December 8, when he was forced to be subbed off.
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)
According to Calciomercato.com, Leao also has discomfort in the pubic area.
Milan will return to the pitch after the break in a crucial Serie A match against third-placed Napoli.
The FIGC explains that Federico Chiesa ‘has been deemed unavailable for the next two matches’ following an assessment of his physical condition, so the 28-year-old has already returned to Liverpool.
Chiesa left Italy’s training centre Coverciano on Monday to return to Liverpool and won’t be available for the World Cup play-off this week.
Official: Why Chiesa pulled out of Italy squad for 2026 World Cup play-off
The Italian FA explained Gennaro Gattuso’s decision with an official statement on Monday morning: “Federico Chiesa, after his physical condition was assessed upon arrival at the federal technical centre, has been deemed unavailable for the next two matches and, in agreement with his club, has left the national team training camp.”
The FIGC confirmed that Bologna’s Nicolò Cambiaghi was included in the Azzurri squad to replace Chiesa.
The Liverpool winger had not featured for the Italy national team since the 2024 Euros and had previously rejected the chance to play for the Azzurri under Gattuso.
A Euro 2020 winner, Chiesa has scored seven goals in 51 appearances with the Italy national team.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Federico Chiesa of Liverpool during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
He has made 32 appearances across all competitions with Liverpool this season, scoring three goals and providing three assists, but has only played 673 minutes with the Reds in 2025-26.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 15: Nicolò Cambiaghi of Bologna FC competes for the ball with Sebastian Walukiewicz of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Bologna FC 1909 at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 15, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Cambiaghi, 25, has only played once for the Azzurri but has four goals and six assists in 37 Bologna games this term.
The 25-year-old has played over 2,000 minutes with the Rossoblu in 2025-26.
Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has already left Italy’s training ground and won’t be available for the World Cup play-off, being replaced by Bologna’s Nicolò Cambiaghi.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Liverpool winger Chiesa won’t be available for Italy’s World Cup play-off this week as the 28-year-old has already left the Azzurri’s training ground in Coverciano, Florence.
Chiesa was included in the Italy squad for the first time in nearly two years, but according to the report, he left Coverciano on Monday morning and will be replaced by Bologna’s Cambiaghi.
It remains unclear whether Chiesa has suffered an injury or pulled out of the squad for other reasons, especially given that he had previously declined the chance to play for the Azzurri under Gennaro Gattuso.
Italy’s forward #14 Federico Chiesa reacts at the end of the UEFA Euro 2024 round of 16 football match between Switzerland and Italy at the Olympiastadion Berlin in Berlin on June 29, 2024. (Photo by Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP) (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni has missed the last two matches at a club level due to a bruised fibula, while Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca has suffered an adductor injury and was not available for La Dea’s Serie A match against Verona on Sunday.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter walks off with an injury 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)
Contrary to Chiesa, however, all three players are still in Coverciano to be assessed by the national team doctors.
Today, Gattuso will hold a press conference at 14:00 CET (13:00 GMT).
Fabio Capello believes Juventus are right to extend Luciano Spalletti’s contract regardless of Champions League qualification, but argues that ‘it won’t be easy’ to catch Cesc Fabregas’ Como and finish in the top four.
Juventus’ 1-1 draw against Sassuolo over the weekend pushed the Bianconeri three points below fourth-placed Como, who secured a comfortable 5-0 win against Pisa.
Capello examined the Bianconeri’s performance in his latest interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, highlighting what didn’t work for the Old Lady.
“First of all, Yildiz. He scored okay, but he lacked consistency, especially in the second half,” said the ex-coach.
“Unlike usual, he didn’t take responsibility for getting the team out of trouble. Juventus attacked more on the right, where Conceiçao did have a good game, but it wasn’t enough to win.”
Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik were introduced in the dying minutes, while Lois Openda and Jonathan David spent the whole game on the bench.
“The false nine is fashionable. Anyway, the first two were coming back from long injuries, while evidently, the other two are not considered up to the level required by the coach at the moment,” Capello said.
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Como 1907 at on February 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Juventus are expected to offer Spalletti a contract extension before the end of the season, regardless of whether they qualify for the Champions League.
“Obviously, it’s more complicated. There’s no denying that Luciano has given something to Juve, despite a few unlucky results, and for this reason, the club has decided to continue with him without waiting for the end of the season,” noted Capello.
“In my opinion, it’s the right choice, even if there’s no signature yet. Not finishing in the top four, however, would limit possibilities in the transfer market and have repercussions on the whole environment.”
MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 20: Fabio Capello attends the Sporting Mixed Zone ahead of Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Palacio De Cibeles on April 20, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)
Juventus are level on 54 points with Roma, three points behind Como, but Atalanta are also still in the race for the top four despite sitting 7th with 50 points.
“Como are riding a wave of enthusiasm. They win, play well, and score easily. Fabregas is very good, but sometimes overcomplicates things with some overly elaborate ideas,” concluded Capello.
“However, it won’t be easy to catch them, especially since they have the advantage over Juve in head-to-head matches, and that +3 is practically a +4. Roma are not in great form, and against Lecce, you could see they were still feeling the effects of their Europa League elimination. They’re also paying for absences, especially those of quality players such as Soulé and Dybala. They struggled, but still managed to take all three points and remain in contention for a Champions League spot. Atalanta also won and are chasing from a bit further back. There are still many matches left; it’s too early to make predictions, but they all have the duty to believe.”
Pio right away, 1-1 scored by Ndour. Nerazzurri deflated. Thuram is a case.
The magician of sprints
Allegri and Conte, Scudetto specialists. Napoli-Milan the day after Easter
Paz & Vaz Eurogoal
Como scored five and ran away. Roma, one is enough.
Juve under accusation
-3 from Champions League, everyone guilty (including Spalletti).
Italy: Bastoni, Mancini and Scamacca. World Cup doubts
Corriere dello Sport
Faded
Inter’s anxiety
Viola comeback: Milan go -6, Napoli -7.
Immediate lead with Esposito (6th goal), but lost momentum in the second half. Sommer protagonist. Ndour scores the equaliser. Eight games to go: there’s Roma after the break.
Napoli, another pause for Conte
Antonio won’t be with the team. A break to refresh.
Allegri cancels Fonseca and Conceiçao
In 30 games, he has already earned as many points as last season.
Reaction after the Europa League defeat and relaunch in the Champions League race. Robinio decides it. Hermoso avoids the 1-1 in the dying minutes. Gasp remains silent. Fabregas fourth, 5th consecutive win +3 on Spalletti and the Giallorossi.
Tuttosport
Spalletti’s future, champions needed
It’s the week of renewal and there are many things to be clarified
Anatomy of choices, common vision on the market and a team immediately able to compete at the top: these are the needs of the coach that come before the contract’s length. There’s a need to set misunderstandings aside, despite a limited budget, if they miss out on the top four. The cases Openda and David, too many wastes and the penalty issues.
Pio illusion, Inter tremble
Esposito scored a goal after 40 seconds, but it’s another lead not managed. Ndour scores the 1-1. Two points in three games, it’s all open again for the Scudetto. Napoli dream too.
Inter’s 1-1 draw against Fiorentina leaves Milan six points behind the Nerazzurri with eight games to play, but it’s all left to play for in Serie A, from the race for a Champions League spot to the fight for survival.
Serie A Round 30 came to a close on Sunday night with Inter’s 1-1 draw against Fiorentina.
Milan and Napoli had beaten Torino and Cagliari earlier this weekend, so both sides have earned two points over the table leaders.
Inter are now winless in their last three league matches, and their advantage over second-placed Milan has been reduced to six points, while Napoli sit third, seven points below the Nerazzurri.
Como sit fourth in the standings following a commanding 5-0 win over Pisa. Juventus and Roma are level on 54 points, three below Cesc Fabregas’ side.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale and Robin Gosens of ACF Fiorentina in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The race for survival also remains wide open with Lecce and Cremonese level on 27 points, Fiorentina sitting 16th with 29, and Cagliari in 15th with 30.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: General view inside the stadium Artemio Franchi during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Francesco Pio Esposito has ‘regrets’ despite scoring in Inter’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina and sends a message to fans ahead of Italy’s World Cup play-off.
It was a chaotic and thrilling encounter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi this evening, getting off to the most remarkable start when Esposito scored within 40 seconds with a free header on Nicolò Barella’s cross.
Both teams had goals disallowed for offside before Cher Ndour was ready to turn in the rebound from a Yann Sommer save on Albert Gudmundsson.
Pio Esposito flourishing for Inter
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“I do leave here with regrets, especially over the last opportunity,” Esposito told DAZN Italia, referring to the stoppage-time David De Gea save on his turn.
“De Gea did well to anticipate my movement, perhaps I could’ve done more, but that’s just how it went.”
There aren’t many centre-forwards with Esposito’s characteristics who are Italian, especially now Atalanta’s Gianluca Scamacca is injured.
“I think that getting into the box and getting my head to the ball is my main strength, so I am always happy when the team provides me with great crosses, like the one from Barella.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
This result means Milan are now within six points of leaders Inter, while Napoli are only seven points behind the Nerazzurri with eight rounds to go.
Meanwhile, Fiorentina are in 16th place, but only two points clear of both Lecce and Cremonese in the drop zone.
Francesco Pio Esposito scores for Italy against Moldova in the 2026 World Cup qualifier (@azzurri)
Esposito is now going to make the very short trip, circa 2km from the Stadio Artemio Franchi, to the Coverciano training camp to join up with Gennaro Gattuso’s Italy squad.
Does he have a message for the fans ahead of the decisive 2026 World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland?
“I urge everyone to put club loyalty aside and unite for the good of Italy. The Nazionale play on Thursday, and that is the most important thing.”
If Italy win that game, they will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final.
Aleksandar Kolarov insists criticism of Inter’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina is unwarranted. ‘We are not in our best period, but we are six points clear, we must’ve done something good.’
The Nerazzurri had got off to the perfect start at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, as Francesco Pio Esposito opened the scoring within 40 seconds.
However, Cher Ndour was ready to tap in the rebound from Yann Sommer’s save on Albert Gudmundsson, giving Fiorentina a 1-1 result.
Kolarov stands up for stuttering Inter
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Aleksandar Kolarov vice-manager of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu was forced to watch from the stands due to a touchline ban, so his assistant manager Kolarov stood in on the bench and in the media room.
“It wasn’t our best game and we are not in our best period of the season, but we are still six points clear at the top of the table, so it is all in our hands.”
This is becoming a real issue, as Inter have fumbled 12 Serie A points from leading situations this season, more than any other club.
“We are lacking some determination and perhaps sharpness too, as fatigue is accumulated over the many games. It is not our best spell of the season, we are used to seeing Inter dominate matches, but we are still six points clear and it is up to us to kill off the title race,” added Kolarov.
“I want to point out that when it comes to Inter, people act as if we should take everything for granted. You can draw away from home against a strong Fiorentina side, they have been on good form recently, so I see a point here as relatively positive.
“If we are six points clear, it must mean we have done some good things over the course of the season. I understand criticism, but Inter are still the leaders.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Inter are now without a win in four competitive games, scraping only two points from their last three Serie A matches.
It means Milan have closed the gap on the leaders to just six points, while Napoli are only seven behind, making it a potential three-horse race going into the last eight rounds.
After the break for international duty, Inter will be up against Roma and Como, two huge fixtures, but Milan going head-to-head with Napoli in Week 31 could also benefit them.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Domilson Cordeiro dos Santos known as Dodo of ACF Fiorentina ina against Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It is perhaps no coincidence that the difficulties started when Lautaro Martinez suffered his injury, so are the strikers doing the same job that their captain did?
“The forwards are fundamental for our style of play, we need them to hold up the ball, but I don’t just want to talk about the strikers. We also need better quality building out from the back, and to give the forwards the right service.”
The Italy camp is only 2km from the Stadio Franchi, so Inter and Fiorentina’s Azzurri players will go straight from here to join up with the Nazionale ahead of the World Cup play-offs.
“I think the players are on their way now, they are all healthy apart from Bastoni, but everyone else is at the disposal of coach Gattuso. I wish them all the best,” concluded Kolarov.
Paolo Vanoli thanked his ‘exceptional’ Fiorentina side after holding leaders Inter to a 1-1 draw. ‘Motivation and desire made the difference’ after a stressful week.
This has been a remarkable week for the Viola, who beat Cremonese 4-1 on Monday to break clear of the relegation zone, then won 2-1 in Poland against Rakow on Thursday to reach the Conference League quarter-finals.
They had it all to do here tonight, going behind within 40 seconds to a Francesco Pio Esposito free header, but Cher Ndour was ready to meet the rebound from Yann Sommer’s save on Albert Gudmundsson to hold leaders Inter 1-1.
Vanoli proud of Fiorentina fightback
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Cher Ndour of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“I congratulated my lads, because it was the fifth game in 14 days, above all the third in a week. They were exceptional, so was my whole staff, because the fact we ended the game in crescendo shows how well we’re working,” Vanoli told DAZN Italia.
“Conceding the goal that early destabilised us, but we got back on track. We often struggled in the fifth game in a row, but this time the motivation and desire made the difference.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
This result means that Fiorentina are now in 16th place, but only two points clear of both Lecce and Cremonese, so the battle to avoid joining doomed Verona and Pisa could go down to the wire.
“I’ve always said this team has to play football in order to save itself,” continued Vanoli.
“Changing objective to fighting relegation is tough to handle, especially in such a demanding environment as Florence. We’ve built up over time, now we have another very important game coming up against Verona.
“We are improving in our shape, I feel we can do better down the left flank with Gudmundsson, but where we have really done well now is to get shots and crosses from the edge of the area. I felt today where we really impressed was out of possession, not allowing those passes to reach the strikers.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Head coach Paolo Vanoli manager of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina also have a Conference League quarter-final to prepare for against Crystal Palace, so it is going to be a busy end to the season, not to mention how many players are going off on international duty now.
“I wished Kean all the best, as he will represent Italy in these two very important matches. After 60 minutes on Thursday, he played almost the full 90 today, so his form is improving. I really liked him chasing the ball today, he put in the effort.”
Best Fiorentina player: Fagioli 7 – He always had clear ideas with the ball at his feet. His passing accuracy (per Sofascore) was above 90%. Not all his teammates were as quick or sharp, but every time Fagioli had the ball, the Tuscans felt in a safe place.
Lowest Fiorentina ratings: Kean and Ranieri 5 – Kean is supposed to be the added value in attack for Fiorentina, yet he even struggled to find the right position on the field tonight. He spent most of the second half wide on the left flank and missed the best chance for the Viola in the first half. Ranieri was caught out by Pio Esposito early on, with Inter’s most dangerous chances consistently coming down his flank.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina coach: Vanoli 6.5 – The start was shocking, with a goal conceded after less than one minute, and Inter could even have scored more. However, the Tuscans reacted and had a few chances to score, especially with Kean, before the break. Solid performance in the second half and a deserved draw scored by Ndour.
Best Inter player: Pio Esposito 7 – The 20-year-old made an immediate impact, opening the scoring inside the first minute and delivering far more throughout the match. He used his strength effectively to hold the ball and showed sharp awareness in his touches, helping drive the Nerazzurri’s attacks. Positive signs for the Italy national team as well. Based on his and Kean’s performances tonight, there’s no doubt about who should start for Italy in the play-off.
Lowest Inter rating: Thuram 5 – The Frenchman has now gone eight consecutive games across all competitions without scoring a goal. The difference with Pio Esposito was evident tonight. The Italian moved all over the final third; Thuram was quite static and never really dangerous. Another disappointing night.
Inter coach: Kolarov (Chivu banned) 5.5 – Another draw and another sloppy performance, aside from the opening 20 minutes. The Nerazzurri are not sharp enough to be consistent throughout the game, and tonight they lost control of the midfield when Calhanoglu was inevitably replaced (the Turkish star was returning from an injury). Now Milan are once again six points below the Nerazzurri.
Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma won his first title with Manchester City today, lifting the EFL Cup after a 2-0 win over Arsenal at Wembley Stadium.
Italy star Donnarumma has lifted another piece of silverware at Wembley Stadium after Euro 2020 with the Azzurri.
Today, his Manchester City side beat Arsenal 2-0 in the EFL Cup Final, giving Gigio his first trophy with the Premier League giants.
Gigio didn’t play as Pep Guardiola picked second-choice keeper James Trafford, who had featured in all previous games in the competition.
Donnarumma celebrated his first trophy with Manchester City on social media, showing himself holding the trophy and celebrating with his teammate.
The Italy captain added a simple one-word caption to his social media post: ‘Winners.’
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 21: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates his team’s first goal, scored by Nico O’Reilly of Manchester City (not pictured) during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Newcastle United at Etihad Stadium on February 21, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Donnarumma is now heading to Italy’s training centre Coverciano, where he’ll prepare for the Azzurri’s World Cup play-off.
Donnarumma has made 79 appearances with the Italy national team.
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)
On Thursday, March 26, Italy will host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal.
He has kept 14 clean sheets in 36 appearances with Manchester City this season.
Donnarumma celebrates first trophy with Manchester City
Inter were held to another 1-1 draw by Fiorentina, as Cher Ndour cancelled out the early Francesco Pio Esposito header, so the lead at the top is cut to just six points.
The Nerazzurri were feeling the pressure after Derby della Madonnina defeat and a 1-1 draw with Atalanta, as Milan and Napoli had already won this weekend. Alessandro Bastoni joined Lautaro Martinez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the treatment table, but Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries were finding fitness again. Aleksandar Kolarov stood in for suspended Cristian Chivu and Inter ultras were banned from travelling due to security concerns.
The Viola had a big week, crushing Cremonese 4-1 on Monday and winning 2-1 away to Rakow on Thursday to set up a Conference League quarter-final against Crystal Palace. Moise Kean was ready to shake off an ankle issue, but Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey were still out, with Rolando Mandragora carrying a calf twinge.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Aleksandar Kolarov vice-manager of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It took just 40 seconds to break the deadlock, as a poor Robin Gosens clearance was put back into the box by Nicolò Barella from the right, finding Francesco Pio Esposito for a free header from six yards.
39 seconds in and Inter take lead
Brilliant header from Esposito and the league leaders are ahead
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 22, 2026
Gosens nearly gave away another moments later, his clearance going straight up into the air from a Marcus Thuram run, allowing Esposito to test David De Gea from point-blank range.
Kean was offside when failing to tap in from a Gosens cross, as was Barella when finding the net on a Denzel Dumfries assist.
Inter had penalty appeals on eight minutes for a potential Marin Pongracic handling offence, but the referee and VAR considered the arm in a natural position.
Yann Sommer took the sting out of a Kean curler, then Esposito sprung the offside trap for an angled drive to skim the base of the far post.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Denzel Dumfries of FC Internazionale battles for the ball with Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Albert Gudmundsson’s glancing header on a Dodo cross also flashed inches wide, as it struck his shoulder on the way through.
Yann Bisseck’s desperate block prevented Kean tapping in the Gudmundsson roll across from six yards, then on the resulting corner Kean came sliding in at the back post just unable to get onto the Marco Brescianini assist from point-blank range.
Sommer came rushing out to deny Fabiano Parisi, then again as Kean had sent Cher Ndour through on goal.
Kean had the ball in the net with a volley, but was offside when Nicolò Fagioli’s effort from outside the area took a big deflection off Carlos Augusto to loop up into his path.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Nicolo’ Barella of FC Internazionale in action with Cher Ndour during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The tempo was less frantic after the restart, Manuel Akanji and Thuram unable to keep headers on target from set plays.
Fiorentina had a big chance to equalise on 71 minutes when Sommer got down to parry the first-time Ndour strike from the edge of the area, Bisseck crucial to prevent Brescianini tapping in the rebound.
Fagioli also scuffed a volley wide and Kean only grazed the Dodo cross with his head, as the pressure paid off when Sommer got down to only palm a Gudmundsson angled drive into the path of Ndour at the back post.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 22: Cher Ndour of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Artemio Franchi on March 22, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Jack Harrison also bent a left-foot strike just wide of the far post, while Akanji off balance could only prod into De Gea’s arms after a corner.
With the last kick of the game, Esposito managed to control the Acerbi cross with his back to goal and turn Luca Ranieri to shoot, but was denied by a great De Gea reaction save.
Italy international Jorginho alleges that security guards of pop singer Chappell Roan reduced his daughter to tears after a casual encounter in a hotel in Sao Paulo.
Former Napoli and Verona star Jorginho hit out at Chappell Roan on social media, saying that security guards of the pop singer reduced his daughter to tears in a hotel in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Jorginho’s family and the Pink Pony Club singer were having breakfast at the same hotel in the Brazilian city, and the midfielder’s daughter allegedly passed by Roan’s table and smiled at the singer without saying anything.
Jorginho hits out at pop singer Chappell Roan
“What happened next was completely disproportionate,” Jorginho wrote in an Instagram story, as quoted by the BBC.
“A large security guard came over to their table while they were still having breakfast and began speaking in an extremely aggressive manner to both my wife [Catherine Harding] and my daughter, saying that she shouldn’t allow my daughter to ‘disrespect’ or ‘harass’ other people.”
“He even said he would file a complaint against them with the hotel, while my 11-year-old daughter was sitting there in tears. My daughter was extremely shaken and cried a lot.
“I understand very well what respect and boundaries are. What happened there was not that. It was just a child admiring someone.
“It’s sad to see this kind of treatment coming from those who should understand the importance of fans. At the end of the day, they are the ones who build all of this.
“I sincerely hope this serves as a moment of reflection. No one should have to go through this, especially not a child.
“WITHOUT YOUR FANS, YOU WOULD BE NOTHING. AND TO THE FANS, SHE DOES NOT DESERVE YOUR AFFECTION.”
Roan responded to Jorginho’s claims, saying that she was “sad for the mother and child,” who “didn’t deserve” such treatment, but argued the incident did not involve her own personal security.
“I was just sitting at breakfast in my hotel…I did not ask the security guard to go up and talk to this mother and child,” she added.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – JUNE 4: Jorginho of Italy reacts during the international Friendly match between Italy and Turkiye at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on June 4, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“They did not come up to me. They weren’t doing anything. It’s unfair for security to just assume someone doesn’t have good intentions when they have no reason to believe that, because there is no action taken.
“I do not hate people who are fans of my music. I do not hate children, that is crazy.
“I am sorry to the mother and child that someone was assuming something, that you were doing something. If you felt uncomfortable, that makes me really sad. You did not deserve that.”
Jorginho is a former Napoli and Verona star, now playing for Brazilian side Flamengo.
The 34-year-old was born in Brazil but holds an Italian passport and has made 57 appearances for the Azzurri, scoring five goals and winning the 2020 European Championship.
“We had lost a lot of mental energy on Thursday, but we were still good at taking the result home.”
Spanish full-back Angelino returned to action after several months today. He had been diagnosed with asthmatic bronchitis at the beginning of the season and had not made a competitive appearance since September 28.
“We are all happy he’s back. He’s such a nice guy, and he’s always tried to work at his best,” Pisilli said.
Niccolò Pisilli celebrates his goal for Italy against Montenegro in the European Under-21 Championship qualifier (@azzurri)
“We are so happy he has returned, and we hope he can put more minutes in his legs in the final part of the campaign.”
Pisilli is part of the Italy squad playing in the World Cup play-off next week.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – JANUARY 12: Niccolò Pisilli of AS Roma during the Serie A match between Bologna and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on January 12, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We must be confident. We are Italy, and we must not be afraid,” said the 21-year-old midfielder.
“We deserve to play in the World Cup. I’m accustomed to seeing Italy at the World Cup, and I hope that happens this summer.”
Roma coach Gasperini won’t speak to the media about the Giallorossi’s win over Lecce on Sunday, having lost his voice during the game, according to Italian sources, including TMW.
Why Gasperini didn’t talk to the media after Roma 1-0 Lecce
Gasperini didn’t show up for interviews with DAZN and Sky Sport Italia and won’t even hold a post-match press conference.
Robinio Vaz’s first goal with Roma allowed Gasperini’s side to secure a much-needed win in the race for the top four.
Roma had collected two defeats and one draw in Serie A prior to today’s fixture.
Gasperini didn’t even hold a pre-match press conference on the eve of the game.
GENOA, ITALY – MARCH 8: Gian Piero Gasperini, head coach of Roma, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Getty Images)
Roma have lost 14 games across all competitions this season, but they are level on 54 points with Juventus in the Serie A table, three below fourth-placed Como.
Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici insists they will ‘be in the battle to the end’ for Serie A safety and Moise Kean is ‘ready to give his contribution’ against Inter as well as for Italy.
The Viola have had quite the week so far, as on Monday they crushed Cremonese 4-1 to break away from the Serie A danger zone, then on Thursday came back from a goal down to beat Rakow 2-1.
That allowed them to set up a Conference League quarter-final against Crystal Palace.
Paratici leading new Fiorentina project
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 26: Fabio Paratici of ACF Fiorentina looks on 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)
Although he just took over at Fiorentina in February, Paratici worked for many years with current Inter President Beppe Marotta.
“We shared a wonderful professional experience together, 14 years between Sampdoria and Juventus, he taught me a great deal, as did others at Juve and Tottenham.
“We took different paths, but we have two completely different roles and personalities, which is why we were complementary as a pair.”
With Cremonese beating Parma 2-0, plus home defeats for Cagliari and Genoa this weekend, the fight to avoid relegation is more uncertain than ever.
“We’re aware that we need to keep our heads inside the tank until the final day of the season, we know that is the situation and it won’t change. We had some wobbles, but also got through to the Conference League quarter-finals, picked up a lot of points, and will be in the battle to the end.
“So there is no fear, simply awareness of the situation.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 23: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Pisa SC at Artemio Franchi on February 23, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Kean was back in the starting XI on Thursday for the first time since March 2, and leads the line again today with Albert Gudmundsson.
Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey are still out of action, with Rolando Mandragora not even on the bench due to a calf twinge.
CREMONA, ITALY – MARCH 16: Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring the 0-2 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)
“Kean had two or three weeks where he couldn’t train, but he played 60 minutes on Thursday, is in the starting XI tonight, and we are all hoping he will do well with Italy. We must be united and optimistic, because we’ve got everything it takes to achieve our aim there.
“Kean is ready to give his contribution, to both Fiorentina and the Nazionale. Gudmundsson is a quality player too, we expect him to do what he is capable of, which is to bring that quality to the team.”
Inter assistant manager Aleksandar Kolarov has a new experience standing in for Cristian Chivu, but promises ‘an aggressive’ performance against Fiorentina.
The pressure is building on the Nerazzurri, who were beaten in the Derby della Madonnina, then held in a contentious 1-1 draw by Atalanta.
As Milan and Napoli have both already won this weekend, the leaders risk seeing the gap closed to as little as five points unless they get a result in Florence.
Inter in safe hands with Kolarov
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Inter, reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Coach Chivu is sitting out a touchline ban, so Kolarov has to take over both on the bench and the media room.
“It’s true this is the first time I’ve been on the bench by myself, but I’m relaxed and the squad looked good this week, so they reassured me too,” Kolarov told DAZN Italia.
“The team is doing well, we want to put in a great performance. Various things happened to us during the season, including against Atalanta, but that is in the past now and we want to have our say.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second from the penalty spot goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Inter fans are banned from making this trip due to security concerns, so hundreds gathered at the training ground to see the squad off yesterday.
Alessandro Bastoni, Lautaro Martinez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan didn’t make the journey due to injuries, but Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries are getting back to full fitness.
“We haven’t been as sharp as usual over the last two games, but this is a big opportunity for us to pick up the form we had through most of the season. We intend to be very aggressive this evening.”
The Giallorossi had a disastrous couple of weeks, scraping one point from three Serie A rounds to slide down to sixth place, then on Thursday losing 4-3 to Bologna in extra time for Europa League Round of 16 elimination. Zeki Celik and Manu Koné joined long-term absentees Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson in the stands, with Wesley suspended after his controversial red card against Como. Lecce welcomed Lameck Banda back after breathing difficulties saw him stretchered off against Napoli, but Riccardo Sottil, Lassana Coulibaly, Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda and Kialonda Gaspar missed out.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 22: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, and Eusebio Di Francesco, Head Coach of US Lecce, embrace prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on March 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)
Wladimiro Falcone was tested at the near post in the opening minutes by a Lorenzo Pellegrini cross that took a double deflection, then made another save using his legs on Pellegrini’s angled drive.
Roma did have the ball in the net on 24 minutes when Nicolò Pisilli threaded an angled drive past Falcone into the far bottom corner, but Pellegrini was offside in the build-up.
Evan Ndicka nodded over from a corner, while Tiago Gabriel made a fantastic double tackle to first stop Malen inside the area, then block off the El Aynaoui follow-up effort.
Falcone fingertipped a Gianluca Mancini cross-shot over the bar, but the hosts lost Mancini at half-time to injury.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 22: Lameck Banda of US Lecce is pushed in the face by Gianluca Mancini of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on March 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)
Lecce came out fighting for the restart, as Svilar struggled to parry a swerving long-range Ngom effort, and Tiago Gabriel nodded over from the resulting corner.
Robinio Vaz came off the bench and made an immediate impact with his first goal in the Roma jersey. Mario Hermoso got down the left and stood up a cross from the by-line for the ex-Olympique Marseille talent to nod in from a very tricky angle at the back post.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 22: Robinio Vaz of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on March 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Sadik Fofana got into a good position only to scuff the finish wide under pressure from Ndicka, but Lecce had a huge double opportunity on 73 minutes.
First Konan N’Dri dribbled down the left and forced a save with Svilar’s leg at the near post, then the Santiago Pierotti diving follow-up header was desperately cleared off the line by Hermoso.
There was a huge cheer from the crowd as Angelino made his first Serie A appearance at the Stadio Olimpico since October, following a difficult battle with pneumonia.
Vaz also blasted over after a corner was knocked into his path, then Falcone made a sensational double reaction save from point-blank range, although it wouldn’t have counted due to offside.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Inter Milano, looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The pressure is building on Cristian Chivu, because victories for Milan and Napoli temporarily closed their lead to just five points.
They stuttered recently, losing the Derby della Madonnina, then held to a contentious 1-1 draw by Atalanta.
Lautaro Martinez is still out of action, now joined on the treatment table by both Alessandro Bastoni and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
That means Carlos Augusto steps into the back three, with Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries starting to put injury problems behind them.
Esposito leads the attack and Marcus Thuram is looking for his first goal since February 8.
There are no Inter ultras present due to restrictions, so the fans gathered to see the team off at the train station on Saturday instead.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Marcus Thuram, Nicolo’ Barella and Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale interact during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fiorentina have had a busy week, as on Monday they beat Cremonese 4-1 to break away from the relegation zone, then fighting back from a goal down to beat Rakow in Poland on Thursday, setting up a Conference League quarter-final against Crystal Palace.
Kean had his first start there since March 2, as he hopes to shake off the recurring ankle injury for Italy’s World Cup play-offs.
Albert Gudmundsson too is finding his feet after a long lay-off.
Robin Gosens and Niccolò Fortini also return, though Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey are still sidelined.
Rolando Mandragora is not even on the bench due to a calf twinge.
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 26: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal with Giovanni Fabbian of ACF Fiorentina 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)
There are more concerns for Italy ahead of the 2026 World Cup play-offs, as Roma substituted Gianluca Mancini today, while Alessandro Bastoni is already undergoing tests.
The Azzurri are set to battle with Northern Ireland in the semi-final of the play-offs, then hopefully face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a place in the tournament.
Coach Gennaro Gattuso is already forced to miss quite a few key players, so the last thing he wants is more injuries to be picked up during this weekend in Serie A.
Mancini and Bastoni awaiting Italy tests
Gianluca Mancini representing Italy in the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Moldova (@azzurri)
It looks as if that might be the case, because Roma took defender Mancini off at half-time during their game against Lecce at the Stadio Olimpico.
Initial reports from Sky Sport Italia suggest there is a calf issue in the left leg for the centre-back, but it remains to be seen how serious it is.
BODO, NORWAY – FEBRUARY 18: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale Milano reacts after Kasper Hogh of Bodo/Glimt (not pictured) scores his team’s third goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between FK Bodo/Glimt and FC Internazionale Milano at Aspmyra Stadion on February 18, 2026 in Bodo, Norway. (Photo by Martin Ole Wold/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Bastoni was left out of the Inter squad travelling to Florence for tonight’s match against Fiorentina.
He remains a major doubt for Italy too, so has been spotted this evening already arriving at the Coverciano training ground.
This is where the Azzurri staff are based, so he can undergo tests there to decide if he should remain with the group, or if Gattuso ought to call in a replacement.
The team was still buzzing from the thrill of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals, needing extra time to eventually push Roma aside 4-3 on Thursday night at the Stadio Olimpico.
Inevitably, there was some fatigue from that eventful clash, although they had the opportunity to go in front when Riccardo Orsolini’s penalty was saved by Edoardo Motta.
Instead, Kenneth Taylor struck twice late on to give Lazio the 2-0 victory at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
Italiano frustrated by Bologna setback
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, talks to his team from the sidelines during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It’s a pity we can’t seem to have a consistent run of results, because we wanted to end the week on three big wins in a row,” Italiano told DAZN Italia.
“Up until their opening goal, we were playing really well, hitting the woodwork and missing a penalty. We’ve got to learn how to stay in the game for 90 and more minutes, but we went behind at the first mistake.
“I was convinced the victory over Roma could give us the momentum we needed, but instead we lost to a team that believed in the result more than we did on the day.”
Bologna did have to play 120 minutes at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening, so did that take a lot out of them?
“We did well for 70-odd minutes, when so many games are close together, some mental fatigue can set in. It’s disappointing, because we were in a great spell of form and wanted to go into the break for international duty feeling positive.
“Instead, we need to get right back to work and recover lost ground.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, waves to the crowd prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
This result means that Lazio leapfrog Bologna into eighth place in the Serie A standings, further damaging their hopes of qualifying for Europe via this route.
Orsolini’s penalty was weak and central, saved by a goalkeeper who was on only his third career Serie A appearance.
“The team has great faith in Orsolini,” assured Italiano.
“Bernardeschi had taken the most recent penalties, but we wanted to see Orso be decisive again. It’s a pity, this could’ve been a confidence booster for him, but we all applauded him when he came off, and so did the crowd.”
Maurizio Sarri’s assistant manager Marco Ianni gives an injury update on Mario Gila and confirms Kenneth Taylor ‘just knows what to do on the pitch’ after Lazio beat Bologna 2-0.
The Aquile are truly on a roll now, as this was their third consecutive Serie A victory, allowing them to leapfrog Bologna into eighth place.
Kenneth Taylor was the unexpected hero, as he bagged both goals in the second half, after Edoardo Motta managed to parry the Riccardo Orsolini penalty on only his third career Serie A appearance.
Lazio have finally found some form
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Kenneth Taylor of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Coach Sarri was forced to watch from the stands due to a touchline ban, so assistant Ianni was on the bench today and in the press room at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
“We wanted to give a sense of consistency to the last two victories, and it was another great performance against a strong opponent,” Ianni told DAZN Italia.
“It was the right approach, I saw character in an atmosphere that was fired up by the Europa League victory. Saving the penalty, where Motta did so well in that moment, gave us that extra boost we needed to go on and win the game.
“Overall, I think we did better at making the most of the incidents that went our way.”
There was bad news too, as Mario Gila limped off with muscular problems in the first half, adding to the absentee list that already includes Mattia Zaccagni, Ivan Provedel, Danilo Cataldi, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot.
“Gila had been struggling with his knee for a while, we knew this might happen, because he’s been gritting his teeth for a few weeks now,” confirmed the Lazio assistant manager.
“He wanted to be there to help the team, hopefully it’s just an inflammation and we’ll have him back right after the break for international duty.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Mario Gila of SS Lazio injured during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
However, the substitutes did make a positive impact, including Boulaye Dia and Tijjani Noslin.
“It’s true, the substitutions did influence the game. Those who started weren’t doing badly, but the players who came on gave fresh energy and depth to the attack.
“Pedro was not in great shape physically, but he had a very good first half.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Marco Ianni, Assistant Coach at Lazio looks on prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Although Lazio had limited transfer options in January, Taylor has been a great addition, thrown straight into the starting XI after arriving from Ajax and today scoring two goals.
“Taylor is a great player who comes from a very different league, but he settled in straight away,” continued Ianni.
“He’s one of those players who just knows what to do on the pitch. Off it too, he works really hard, has been studying Italian, and after two weeks could already understand quite a lot of our language.”
Marten de Roon is ‘so happy and proud’ to have made history as the player with the most Atalanta appearances, as the fans put on a show for his 436th game.
La Dea were without a victory in a month over all competition, held 2-2 by Lazio in the Coppa Italia semi-final, then eliminated 10-2 on aggregate from the Champions League by Bayern Munich.
It was a tough slog against rock bottom Verona too, as Davide Zappacosta’s finish squirmed through a sea of legs to nestle into the far bottom corner, while Marco Carnesecchi made some important saves.
De Roon becomes an Atalanta legend
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Fans of Atalanta display a TIFO in support of Marten de Roon prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
This was a special day for De Roon, who made his 436th appearance in the Atalanta jersey, beating Gianpaolo Bellini to become the club’s all-time record man.
“I feel so close to Bergamo and to Atalanta, I felt at home from the first day. I still feel good and want to keep playing as long as I can.
“Bellini was a real gentleman about this record, and of course he was my captain when I arrived too.”
The fans put on a tifo in the stands before kick-off with an image of his celebrating face, then after the match a huge banner sent this message.
‘Adopted son of our city, a true symbol of Atalanta, 436 times thank you Marten!’
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Atalanta fans display a banner to celebrate player Marten de Roon who becomes the clubs record appearance holder during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
He toured the pitch with his family to salute them, holding up a banner depicting the chant in his honour that goes to the tune of the theme for Anime Goldrake.
There was also a banner from a young child declaring he wanted to ‘become a club icon just like you.’
“I am so happy and proud to be an example for younger people. This affection from the Atalanta fans is wonderful,” he replied.
“We are a very united group, I remember being welcomed by the old guard like Migliaccio, Bellini, Raimondi and Cigarini. The atmosphere within Atalanta is fundamental to our success.”
The victory pushes Atalanta up to seventh place, within four points of Juventus in fifth, and putting more pressure on Roma ahead of their game with Lecce this evening.
Roma director Ricky Massara wants them to ‘turn disappointment into positive energy’ against Lecce to revitalise their Serie A campaign after Europa League elimination.
There is the very real risk that Roma’s campaign could fall apart, as after a Coppa Italia exit and one point from three Serie A rounds seeing them slide down to sixth place, they were knocked out of the Europa League Round of 16.
“We want to get straight back on track and turn that disappointment into positive energy, so we can end the season on a high,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.
Roma losing momentum during campaign
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)
The 4-3 home defeat to Bologna in extra time left a bitter taste in the mouth, and added another couple of names to the injury list, as Zeki Celik and Manu Koné are out of action, joining Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson.
Wesley also sits out a ban after his controversial red card in the defeat to Como, so Neil El Aynaoui and Nicolò Pisilli come in.
“El Aynaoui did very well at the start of the season, then was one of the best players at the Africa Cup of Nations. Pisilli had more playing time and opportunity during that period to prove himself, so both are midfielders we can rely on.”
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Gianluca Mancini of AS Roma celebrates with teammate Neil El Aynaoui, after Liam Scales of Celtic (not pictured) concedes an own goal resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
While the attack is decimated, curiously the statistics show that Roma score more goals now than earlier in the season, but are leaking them at the back instead.
“It’s true that we are reflecting on the number of injuries in attack, yet have become more prolific upfront with the arrival of Malen, and have lost some of the solidity we had in defence. The coach is working on trying to rediscover that strength that we counted on for so much of the season,” confessed the director.
Como crushed Pisa 5-0 earlier today, but Juventus were held 1-1 by Sassuolo last night, so at least Roma could leapfrog the Old Lady to recapture fifth place.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 19: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on March 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Italy are gearing up for the 2026 World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland, but clubs were unable to find any extra time for CT Gennaro Gattuso to prepare.
“The calendar is a critical issue, as we all agree it is crucial for Italy to qualify for the World Cup, but the fixture list is so packed that it is impossible to find room for anything else. This is something we’ve been discussing for years now and cannot seem to find a solution,” concluded Massara.
Roma’s season is threatening to fall apart as they look to Donyell Malen and Lorenzo Pellegrini against a Lecce side getting dragged back into the relegation zone.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 19: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on March 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi have had a disastrous few weeks, crashing out of the Coppa Italia, on Thursday eliminated from the Europa League Round of 16 in extra time by Bologna, and with one point from the last three Serie A rounds sliding down to sixth place.
Not all of it can be attributed to the injury crisis, but they are still missing Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson.
Zeki Celik was a late addition to the absentee list, as he too has a muscular issue.
Wesley is suspended following his controversial red card in the defeat to Como, though at least Evan Ndicka returns from his ban.
Malen remains the only bright spark, scoring eight goals in 11 competitive games since his January arrival from Aston Villa.
Lorenzo Pellegrini and Nicolo Pisilli provide support.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Niccolo Pisilli of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico on February 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lecce have plenty of problems too, as losing three of their last four Serie A games means they are perilously close to the drop zone, especially after Cremonese’s surprise victory away to Parma yesterday.
However, Riccardo Sottil joins Lassana Coulibaly, Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda and Kialonda Gaspar on the treatment table.
It’s always a special game for Eusebio Di Francesco, former Roma midfielder and coach.
NAPLES, ITALY – MARCH 14: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Lameck Banda of US Lecce during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Lecce at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on March 14, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Kenneth Taylor struck twice late on after Edoardo Motta saved Riccardo Orsolini’s penalty, giving Lazio a third straight Serie A win to leapfrog Bologna into eighth place.
The Rossoblu were buzzing after their extra time victory over Roma on Thursday to reach the Europa League quarter-finals, but it came at a cost, losing Jens Odgaard and Tommaso Pobega to injury, with Lukasz Skorupski and Lorenzo De Silvestri already out. Lazio were also enthusiastic after back-to-back wins over Sassuolo and Milan, but the absentee list included Mattia Zaccagni, Ivan Provedel, Danilo Cataldi, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot, with Alessio Romagnoli returning. Maurizio Sarri sat out a touchline ban.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Daniel Maldini of Lazio controls the ball under pressure from Martin Vitik of Bologna during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Adam Marusic got down the right and forced Federico Ravaglia to rush off his line, while Daniel Maldini couldn’t keep his volley on target after a poor clearance.
Bologna came so close with a ferocious long-range Nikola Moro strike that beat Edoardo Motta only to smack against the frame of the goal on 21 minutes.
Lazio’s injury crisis intensified further after just 25 minutes when Mario Gila hobbled off.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Mario Gila of SS Lazio injured during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Marusic again got into a promising position only to fire over when he had better options, while Federico Bernardeschi charged down a Gustav Isaksen effort.
Bologna pounced on a double error, as Santiago Castro intercepted the poor Fisayo Dele-Bashiru backpass and was brought down by Motta. However, Motta made up for his mistake by saving the Riccardo Orsolini penalty in only his third career Serie A appearance.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Edoardo Motta of Lazio celebrates saving a penalty with teammates during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Motta was also ready for an Orsolini angled drive, but it was Lazio who took the lead instead when Boulaye Dia’s effort from the edge of the area was charged down, the ricochet turning into an accidental assist for Kenneth Taylor to sweep in at the near post.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 22: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna misses a penalty during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and SS Lazio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Matteo Cancellieri had two chances in quick succession to bolster Lazio’s advantage, first a cross-shot cleared in the six-yard box, then Ravaglia using his body to parry at the near post.
It was only a warning, as Dia combined with Noslin to send Taylor into the box down the left, the midfielder dribbled around Ravaglia and deposited into an empty net for his second goal of the game.
Bologna thought they’d snatched one back in stoppages when Motta fumbled a Martin Vitik attempt, but it was cleared off the line.
La Dea were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich midweek, and losing ground in Serie A after just two points from three rounds. Gianluca Scamacca also suffered a fresh injury blow, but Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori were finding fitness again. Hellas missed Armel Bella-Kotchap, Domagoj Bradaric, Sandi Lovric and Suat Serdar.
It was a special day for Marten de Roon, who became Atalanta’s all-time record man with 436 appearances.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Fans of Atalanta display a TIFO in support of Marten de Roon prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
Lorenzo Montipò flew to palm away the towering Nikola Krstovic header, but he was beaten when Davide Zappacosta rolled across the six-yard box, saved by a sensational Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro block to prevent the Ederson tap-in.
Atalanta did take the lead when Davide Zappacosta drilled hard and low from the edge of the area through a sea of legs, taking a deflection on the way through and bending back the goalkeeper’s gloves into the far bottom corner.
It should’ve been 1-1 at the dawn of the second half when Kieron Bowie just flicked on the Rafik Belghali cross from six yards, but was denied by an astonishing Marco Carnesecchi reaction save.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Giorgio Scalvini of Atalanta is tackled by Martin Frese of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
De Ketelaere sent Krstovic clear on goal after intercepting a wayward Gift Orban pass, but the striker’s lob bounced off the top of the crossbar as Montipò came rushing out.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta shoots while under pressure from Andrias Edmundsson of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona FC at Gewiss Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
The Verona goalkeeper had to be alert on a Mario Pasalic cross-shot, but Hellas really should’ve equalised on 77 minutes when Orban had time and space to control a knockdown only to fire over from 12 yards.
Orban also tested Carnesecchi from the edge of the area, while Belghali lost his balance when dribbling into the area and his finish was charged down by Isak Hien.
Reports in Italy claim that Inter are keen on a potential deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window for the table-topping Nerazzurri.
Reports Inter keen on Chelsea’s Andrey Santos
According to reports from Fabrizio Romano and Calciomercato.com, Inter are interested in a deal for 21-year-old Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, who has recently been called up to Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil national team squad.
It is expected to be a busy summer for Inter, who are likely to part company with a number of senior players who will be out of contract, while recent reports claim that the Nerazzurri are not opposed to selling a ‘big’ first-team name during the next window.
Andrey Santos is reportedly among the midfielders who could make the move to San Siro this summer. Inter have previously discussed a potential deal for the Brazilian in the summer of 2025 according to Sunday’s reports.
The Nerazzurri have reportedly met ‘on several occasions’ with agents and intermediaries Giuliano Bertolucci and Kia Joorabchian.
Chelsea’s valuation could be an issue for Cristian Chivu’s side, though. Calciomercato claims that Chelsea rejected a proposal in the region of €50m from the Saudi Pro League for Andrey Santos last summer.
WREXHAM, WALES – MARCH 07: Andrey Santos of Chelsea controls the ball during the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Wrexham and Chelsea on March 07, 2026 in Wrexham, Wales. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)
However, given that the youngster is not a guaranteed first-choice at Stamford Bridge and has been limited to just 13 starts between the Premier League and Champions League this season, the Nerazzurri are hoping that Chelsea will have lowered their demands for the 21-year-old.
Andrey Santos is not the only name on Inter’s transfer wishlist, as many reports in Italy claim that they are also keen on a deal for Roma’s Manu Kone.
Cesc Fabregas says that it is ‘difficult not to fall in love’ with Como and their talented group of young players after moving three points clear of Juventus in the Champions League positions thanks to their 5-0 win over Pisa on Sunday.
Como swept away their relegation-threatened opposition in Serie A on Sunday evening thanks to goals from Assane Diao, Anastasios Douvikas, Martin Baturina, Nico Paz and Maxi Perrone.
They now head into the international break in fourth place with a three-point buffer between themselves and Juventus in fifth. Roma are in sixth and will play later on Sunday evening.
Fabregas reacts to Como 5-0 Pisa: ‘An important victory’
Fabregas insists that Sunday’s victory was particularly special, not because of the implications on the Champions League race, but to honour the club’s late co-owner Michael Bambang Hartono, who died last week.
“Today was an important victory because we lost an important person in the Como World,” Fabregas told DAZN after full-time (via TMW).
“Today we send a big hug to the Hartono family. It’s because of them that we all get to live like this. Today’s victory is more important in this respect.”
Fabregas insists that he was not expecting such a dominant scoreline from his side before kick-off.
“We told ourselves over the last few days that this would be a difficult game. We attacked the space well for the first two goals. The team was intelligent, it’s another experience for their growth.
“Now there’s a bit of time to rest. Let’s see how Jesus and Ramon are doing, but for us, it’s a source of pride to see them get called up for their national teams.”
Fabregas was also asked about the feeling in the city of Como as the team creep closer to securing their first ever spot in the Champions League.
“We take in a beautiful atmosphere, the supporters are satisfied. We all want more, but we’re enjoying the journey. Six or seven years ago, we were a provincial team in Serie D, now we’re making real progress.
“It’s difficult to not fall in love with these young players. We’re achieving what we set out to do two years ago. We know where we want to get to and how we want to get there, which is fundamental for me.”
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Assane Diao of Como 1907 celebrates with his team-mate Nico Paz after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas was also asked about the condition of Jesus Rodriguez, who was forced off with a knee issue during the first half against Pisa.
“He took two blows, one at the start and another after 25 minutes. He couldn’t continue. He’s an explosive player and that conditions him a lot as well. It’s a shame, because it was a game suited to his characteristics. But that’s football and we have to look forwards.”
Italy international Guglielmo Vicario has been named as a starter for Tottenham’s Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon, despite recently turning down a call-up to the national team due to an operation he is due to have next week.
Why is Vicario starting for Tottenham but is not part of the Italy squad?
Vicario was not named in Gennaro Gattuso’s 28-player Italy squad for the World Cup play-offs coming up this international break. The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland on Thursday evening in the semi-final and the winner of that match will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home for a spot at the final tournament.
Tottenham confirmed that the reason behind Vicario’s absence from the Italy squad was due to the fact that he is due to have surgery on a sports hernia.
This procedure is expected to take place next week, and is likely to rule the stopper out for around a month.
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)
Tottenham confirmed that Vicario decided to have the procedure done now in order to minimise the impact on his availability at club level.
The decision to skip the play-offs was understandable given that Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma is expected to start in both matches, assuming that Italy get past Northern Ireland in the semi-final.
However, it does come as a slight surprise to see vicario still in the starting line-up for Tottenham’s Premier League relegation clash against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, given that he is due to have an operation in the coming days.
The wheels risk falling off the Giallorossi wagon after a tough run of results, as they are out of the Coppa Italia, scraped one point from three Serie A matches to slide down to sixth place, and were eliminated from the Europa League by Bologna.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 19: Santiago Castro of Bologna is challenged by Manu Kone of AS Roma during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on March 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Midfielder Manu Koné limped off in the opening minutes of that Round of 16 tie and is expected to be out of action for a month.
Now Zeki Celik is also left off the squad list to face Lecce, reportedly due to a calf issue, although there do not seem to be any lesions.
Roma are already missing Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson.
Wesley is suspended following his controversial red card in the defeat to Como, though at least Evan Ndicka returns from his ban.
Sandro Tonali was not risked for the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, as the Italy international hopes to be fit enough to start for the Azzurri in Thursday evening’s World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland.
Why did Italy international Tonali not feature in Newcastle vs. Sunderland?
Tonali was taken off midway through Newcastle’s recent Champions League exit against Barcelona, raising concerns surrounding his fitness ahead of Italy’s crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up this international break.
Fortunately, reports in Italy suggest that Tonali will be available for Gennaro Gattuso, but the former Milan midfielder was not risked for Newcastle’s Premier League match against bitter rivals Sunderland on Sunday.
Tonali was not even named among the substitutes at St. James’s Park. He was still present in the stands, and according to the latest updates, the decision to leave him out of the squad was purely on precautionary grounds.
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)
Tonali is expected to be part of the Italy side that hosts Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final in Bergamo on Thursday evening. The winner of that tie will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in the play-off final, which will be a one-legged decider for a spot in the final tournament.
Italy must win both fixtures if they are to avoid missing out on the World Cup for the third tournament cycle in a row.
Como have strengthened their spot in the Champions League positions heading into the international break as Cesc Fabregas’s side moved three points clear of Juventus thanks to goals from Assane Diao, Anastasios Douvikas, Martin Baturina, Nico Paz and Maxi Perrone in a 5-0 win over Pisa in Serie A on Sunday afternoon.
Como came into today’s game off the back of a four-game winning streak in Serie A and a six-game unbeaten run across all competitions. Diao, Jesus Rodriguez and Douvikas returned to the attack alongside Nico Paz. Pisa also made a series of personnel changes despite picking up just their second win of the season last weekend.
Both sides dangerously gifted each other possession in their own halves in the early stages, but it was Pisa who were made to pay for Stefano Moreo’s slip, as Assane Diao picked up the ball, raced in on goal, shifted it onto his left foot and slipped it past goalkeeper Nicolas for 1-0 after just seven minutes.
The Senegal international was involved again as Douvikas made it two just before the half-hour mark.
He cut in off the right flank and onto his left foot, delivered the ball into the middle of the area where Douvikas applied an instinctive first-touch finish to double his side’s advantage.
Como made it three within three minutes of the second half. Baturina, who had come on to replace the injured Jesus Rodriguez in the first half, with a smart, low finish from the edge of the penalty area into the bottom corner of the net. That was his sixth goal of the season, five of which have come in 2026.
Pisa were not without their chances. They had two strikes ruled out in the second half, in fact. Substitute Filip Stojilkovic had an effort in the back of the net but was flagged for offside. He then dummied a cross while in an offside position a few minutes later, which led to Henrik Meister’s effort being ruled out as well.
Paz then found the back of the net for the first time at the Stadio Sinigaglia since October as he swept home Alberto Moreno’s cross in from the left-hand side of the penalty area for 4-0.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Nico Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring their team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Substitute Nicolas Kuhn made it all the way to the right byline on the stroke of 80 minutes, and was also able to find the cut-back for Perrone to tap home from point-blank range in the middle of the six-yard box.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 celebrates with his team-mates after scoring their team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 22, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Bologna want to ride the wave of Europa League quarter-final qualification against on-form Lazio, while Atalanta try to shake off their Champions League exit by hosting Hellas Verona.
There hasn’t been much time to recover after European commitments midweek, but the pressure is already on to deliver in Serie A.
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)
Atalanta vs. Verona
La Dea were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich midweek, and losing ground in Serie A after just two points from three rounds. Gianluca Scamacca also suffered a fresh injury blow, but Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori are on their way back to full fitness.
It is a special day for Marten de Roon, who becomes Atalanta’s all-time record man with 436 appearances.
Hellas miss Armel Bella-Kotchap, Domagoj Bradaric, Sandi Lovric and Suat Serdar, remaining rock bottom after defeat to Genoa.
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Bernasconi; De Ketelaere, Zalewski; Krstovic
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Ederson with his teammates of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring the opening goal from penalty spot during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on February 14, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Bologna vs. Lazio
The Rossoblu are buzzing after their extra time victory over Roma on Thursday to reach the Europa League quarter-finals, but it came at a cost, losing Jens Odgaard and Tommaso Pobega to injury, with Lukasz Skorupski and Lorenzo De Silvestri already out.
Lazio are also enthusiastic after back-to-back wins over Sassuolo and Milan, but the absentee list includes Mattia Zaccagni, Ivan Provedel, Danilo Cataldi, Toma Basic, Nicolò Rovella and Samuel Gigot, with Alessio Romagnoli returning.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Kenneth Taylor 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)
Como have an opportunity to move three points clear of both Roma and Juventus in the Serie A top four as they host Pisa in a huge match in the race for the Champions League positions.
Como are on a four-game winning streak in Serie A and a six-game unbeaten run across all competitions, and have had to play against Milan, Juventus and Inter over that period. They most recently defeated top-four-challengers Roma 2-1 in a heated clash at the Sinigaglia last weekend.
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)
As a result of their victory over Roma, and following Juventus’s 1-1 draw against Sassuolo on Saturday, Cesc Fabregas’s side now have an opportunity to move three points clear in fourth place heading into the international break.
Pisa, meanwhile, have only won twice in the league all season, but their most recent came last weekend in a 3-1 victory over Cagliari. They remain in 19th place on 18 points, nine away from safety with nine games left to play.
Fabregas has deployed all of his star attackers in Nico Paz, Assane Diao, Jesus Rodriguez and Anastasios Douvikas against Pisa on Sunday. Of the four, only Paz started in the 2-1 victory over Roma last weekend. Maxi Perrone also returns to the midfield alongside Lucas Da Cunha.
COMO, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Assane Diao in action during the Coppa Italia match between Como 1907 and FC Sudtirol at Stadio G. Sinigaglia on August 16, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Despite picking up his first Serie A victory in charge of Pisa last weekend, Oscar Hiljemark has still made several changes to his starting XI, with Rafiu Durosinmi and Michel Aebischer suspended and Marius Marin and Arturo Calabresi dropping out of the side.
Kick-off is due at 11.30 GMT.
Como vs. Pisa: Confirmed line-ups
Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Van der Brempt; Kempf, D.Carlos, Moreno; Da Cunha, Perrone; Diao, Paz, Rodriguez; Douvikas.
Inter are without Lautaro Martinez and Alessandro Bastoni as the league leaders travel to Tuscany to take on Fiorentina in Serie A on Sunday evening.
The table-topping Nerazzurri still have a five-point advantage over Milan and a six-point advantage over Napoli ahead of kick-off having played one game fewer than both of their Scudetto challengers.
Cristian Chivu’s side are hoping to get back to winning ways after a three-game run without a win across all competitions. They were beaten 1-0 by Milan and held to a 1-1 draw by Atalanta in Serie A over the last two weekends.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Marcus Thuram, Nicolo’ Barella and Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale interact during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Hosts Fiorentina were in Conference League action on Thursday night, sealing a 4-2 aggregate victory with their 2-1 away win against Rakow Czestochowa in the second leg of their round of 16 tie.
Paolo Vanoli’s side put in a statement 4-1 victory away against Cremonese last weekend in Serie A, and are now one point and two positions above the relegation zone ahead of kick-off on Sunday.
Inter captain Lautaro has not travelled with the squad, nor has centre-back Bastoni, who is now a big doubt for Italy’s World Cup play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland coming up on Thursday evening.
Sky Sport Italia predicts a strike partnership of Marcus Thuram and Pio Esposito, with Carlos Augusto likely to come in on the left side of the back three. Hakan Calhanoglu could also come back into the side, if not, Petar Sucic is the most likely option to accompany Nicolo Barella and Piotr Zielinski.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter walks off with an injury 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)
Fiorentina are expected to make a few changes to their Europa League side from Thursday night, with the likes of David De Gea, Robin Gosens, Rolando Mandragora and Albert Gudmundsson poised to return to the starting XI.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tonight’s game will be available to watch live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and through DAZN. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
Join us for all the pre-match build-up, in-game commentary and post-match reactions on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Roma are without key players in Wesley Franca and Manu Kone for the visit of Lecce in Serie A on Sunday evening, as Gian Piero Gasperini and his players look to bounce back from their midweek Europa League exit.
The Giallorossi were knocked out after a 4-3 thriller in the second leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie against Italian opponents Bologna on Thursday night, but must immediately turn their attention back on the race for a place in the Champions League positions in Serie A on Sunday.
Roma find themselves in sixth with 51 points ahead of kick-off, with ground to make up on Como, in fourth on 54 points and Juventus, currently in fifth, also on 54 points after their 1-1 draw against Sassuolo on Saturday night.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus and Tarik Muharemovic of US Sassuolo Calcio battle for possession during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Lecce also find themselves needing a result to lift themselves out of the relegation zone. Eusebio Di Francesco’s side were leapfrogged by Cremonese on Saturday after their 2-0 win away against Parma and are currently in 18th on 27 points as a result.
Gasperini will have to do without the suspended Wesley, who was controversially sent off against Como last weekend, and Kone, who was injured against Bologna on Thursday and is expected to miss around a month of action. Injuries have not let up in attack either, with Paulo Dybala, Matias Soule, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson all still unavailable.
That leaves Gasperini extra reliant on January recruits Donyell Malen and Robinio Vaz, who could start in tandem in attack against Lecce according to reports from Sky Sport Italia. Neil El Aynaoui is expected to come into the midfield in place of the injured Kone.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Donyell Malen of Roma during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Lecce are not expected to make any major changes despite their 2-1 defeat against Napoli last weekend, but could potentially introduce Omri Gandelman into the midfield according to the latest updates.
Kick-off is due at 17.00 GMT.
Roma vs. Lecce: Probable line-ups
Roma (3-4-1-2): Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Ghilardi; Celik, El Aynaoui, Cristante, Tsimikas; Pellegrini; Vaz, Malen.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 15: AS Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on 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)
Today’s game will be available to watch live in the UK exclusively on DAZN. Supporters in the USA are able to tune in via Paramount+.
Join us for all the pre-match build-up, in-game coverage and post-match reactions on the Football Italia Liveblog.
Milan return to second place, but how about Toro?!
The Rossoneri at -5 from the lead. Spectacle with Rabiot and Vlasic. Allegri: ‘Three special points’
Inter on the attack
In Florence looking for a response
Esposito-Calha. Chivu: ‘I’m not looking for excuses’. Fiorentina with Kean as a starter
Juve
Missed penalty, Como could go +3 in the Champions League race
Corriere dello Sport
The Devil’s shadow
Milan pressing | Torino outdone (3-2), Napoli overtaken and hoping that the Viola hold Chivu (19.45)
Allegri doesn’t give up: He’s at -5, Inter risk at Casa Kean
Pavlovic opens, Simeone levels. The second half got off to a roaring start with Rabiot and Fofana. Vlasic narrows it. Gimenez comes on after 144 days
Juve crash
Muric saves Locatelli’s penalty in the 87th: 1-1 against Sassuolo
Grosso complicates Spalletti’s path to the Champions League. Yildiz’s 10th league goal is not enough for Lucio. Pinamonti seals the 1-1. Final attack with Vlahovic and Milik. Como take on Pisa (11.30) and could secure fourth place
Roma, the big opportunity
Lecce arrive at 17.00
Tuttosport
Juve, that’s how you throw everything away
A bad draw against a Sassuolo side decimated by whooping cough
Yildiz’s goal lights up the Bianconeri, who then waste a lot and let Pinamonti catch them up. Then they miss a penalty through Locatelli: Como could go +3 and Roma could catch up. Vlahovic and Milik’s returns also ruined. Spalletti: ‘Destroyed from disappointment’
Toro heart, but 20 minutes of Milan is enough
Anti-Cairo supporters Cairo at RCS and also the Simeone case
Rabiot + Fofana: The second half gets off to a lethal start for Granata after the 1-1, but super Vlasic keeps the game open until the very end. D’Aversa: ‘Proud of my players’. Allegri rages at the referee and VAR but is now five points behind Inter. Cholito: ‘I don’t know where I’ll be in a year’
Luciano Spalletti confirmed Kenan Yildiz wanted to take the penalty against Sassuolo, but Manuel Locatelli was given the ball, leading to the third consecutive failed Juventus spot-kick.
The Bianconeri were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Sassuolo this evening, which has significantly damaged their chances of qualifying for the Champions League with a top four finish.
Kenan Yildiz had scored the opener, cancelled out by Andrea Pinamonti, and Dusan Vlahovic’s header struck Jay Idzes on the arm for a late penalty.
What happened before Juventus penalty
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus has a penalty saved during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
What the cameras perhaps did not capture was the conversation going on when the VAR call was being made, as Yildiz was standing near the spot, hoping to be given the ball.
Instead, Spalletti called Locatelli over to the touchline, and after a brief conversation, the midfielder went over to inform Yildiz of the decision.
It didn’t pay off, as Locatelli’s weak and central penalty was smothered by Arijanet Muric.
“There were two or three players who wanted to step up, but Locatelli is the designated taker. It’s fine, anyone can miss a penalty, we are just disappointed about not bringing home the victory.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Arijanet Muric of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates with teammates after saving a penalty from Manuel Locatelli of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
This means Juventus have now failed to convert three consecutive Serie A penalty kicks with three different players.
Jonathan David got it wrong in another stalemate with Lecce, while Yildiz was denied in a 5-0 victory over Cremonese.
In total, the Bianconeri have received seven Serie A penalties this term, converting four of them.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 03: Jonathan David of Juventus misses a penalty attempt during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Lecce at on January 03, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Locatelli remains their best taker, converting two out of his three, while Kenan Yildiz has a 50 per cent rate.
Vlahovic scored his only attempt too, but made his comeback today for the first time since injury at the end of November.
Fabio Grosso admits he ‘took a gamble and Sassuolo showed courage’ by fighting to a 1-1 draw away to Juventus, despite a week dominated by a whooping cough outbreak.
The Neroverdi certainly didn’t have the ideal preparation for this trip to the Allianz Juventus Stadium, as along with injured Fali Candé, Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo, they were affected by a whooping cough outbreak.
Only one case has been confirmed so far, but another four players were forced to isolate after showing symptoms of the highly-infectious virus that affects the respiratory system, with Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati left behind.
Grosso proud of Sassuolo courage
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Arijanet Muric of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates with teammates after saving a penalty from Manuel Locatelli of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“It was a fantastic performance, incredible really, going beyond all the rosiest possible expectations,” smiled Grosso on Sky Sport Italia.
“This has been a very difficult week, but we dug deep for courage and were rewarded for that. The lads played at such a high level, and so often in these situations you need a bit of luck too, but with our system, our attitude and determination, we earned this point.”
Despite the difficulties, and coming off two consecutive Serie A defeats, Sassuolo fought back from the Kenan Yildiz opener to equalise with Andrea Pinamonti.
Manuel Locatelli had the chance to win it for Juventus late on, but Arijanet Muric sealed his Man of the Match status by smothering the penalty.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus has a penalty saved during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“We had got so close to the end when the penalty was awarded, there were so many difficulties, but I asked the players to hang in there no matter what happened,” continued Grosso.
“At a certain point, they were perhaps the only ones in the world who at the 93rd minute away to Juventus went to take two consecutive corners and just kept pushing for another goal, without trying to let the clock run out.
“That is the great thing about this Sassuolo side, this courage and naïve confidence that allowed us to get this result.”
Sassuolo had never drawn away to Juventus in Serie A before, losing nine of their trips here and winning only once in 2021.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Aster Vranckx of US Sassuolo Calcio is challenged by Khephren Thuram of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“I took a big gamble tonight, but I trusted the young players who deserved this opportunity. By asking the lads for courage, I had to show some of my own too, otherwise I wouldn’t have been credible. I picked a lot of attacking players, we took risks, but I liked the attitude and that we created quite a few chances against a strong opponent.”
Grosso famously scored the penalty that gave Italy the 2006 World Cup, so with the play-offs on the horizon and Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta injured, would he suggest Gennaro Gattuso call up Pinamonti instead?
“Andrea is a great striker, but I am biased. He can still improve and be more decisive, but he is a complete striker who has everything required. We are all cheering on the Nazionale and trust the decisions that Rino will make, so we must try to support and encourage them, not try to always find something to complain about. We need positive energy.”
The Bianconeri had been building momentum to recapture a Champions League spot, and were hosting a Sassuolo side decimated by injuries and a whooping cough outbreak in the squad.
They had taken the lead through Kenan Yildiz, but when Andrea Pinamonti equalised, Manuel Locatelli saw the late opportunity to win it go to waste with Arijanet Muric’s penalty save.
This is the third consecutive penalty that Juventus have failed to convert in Serie A, after Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David also made mistakes.
Spalletti sees Juventus wasted chances
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Manuel Locatelli and Mattia Perin of Juventus embrace after the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“When you play with four at the back, you have to spread the ball and surround them, so you create one-on-one situations. I kept telling them to find Yildiz and Conceicao, because Sassuolo were pinned back into their own penalty area,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
“If you play through the middle and lose the ball, you struggle to get it back. If you lose it out wide, you can stop the counter and win it back quickly. Instead, we made decisions that in the long run we paid a price for, because too many times we didn’t make the right choices, there wasn’t enough maturity.
“We conceded the equaliser, created quite a few situations similar to the one that Sassuolo scored, we had at least 10 of those, but we weren’t reactive enough, didn’t make the smartest choices.”
There were some good choices for the goal, because Mattia Perin immediately launched Francisco Conceicao down the right after a Sassuolo corner, and then the Portuguese talent pulled it back for Yildiz.
“Perin and Conceicao made the right decisions there, but Conceicao had another six of those situations in the first half alone where he chose the wrong option, or he had a bad shot, or he passed it to Kalulu who missed the finish past the far post. When you do not execute the chances you create, you pay for that eventually,” explained Spalletti.
“Considering the chances and the way we poured forward to the end, I think if we had won, then it would’ve been deserved.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus is challenged by Aster Vranckx of US Sassuolo Calcio during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The result means Juve are at the very best left in fifth place this weekend, and could fall further behind Como as well as potentially be caught by Roma.
“We are distraught with disappointment for the result, but smile anyway, because we create so many situations where we could’ve won it, but we have to accept the result. There were some good things in the second half, even if we moved the ball a bit too slowly,” noted the coach.
There was some good news for Juventus too, because in a late double substitution Spalletti gave Dusan Vlahovic his first appearance since the end of November 2025, and Arek Milik his first game since May 2024.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Dusan Vlahovic and Pierre Kalulu of Juventus interact after the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Finally, the former Italy coach was asked about the upcoming World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland, a qualifying campaign that he had started before being sacked two games in.
“I think we should have faith in this Nazionale. I believe Gattuso made the right decisions, so we have everything it takes to qualify for the World Cup.”
Arijanet Muric reveals he felt ‘confident’ facing the Manuel Locatelli penalty and there was a ‘much more difficult’ save to earn Sassuolo the 1-1 draw with Juventus.
It was a dramatic evening in Turin, partly for the build-up because Sassuolo were missing four injured players, plus Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati who were left behind after showing symptoms of whooping cough.
The highly-infectious disease of the respiratory system swept through the squad and made it an extraordinarily difficult situation to deal with.
Nonetheless, they came back from the Kenan Yildiz strike with Andrea Pinamonti, then late on Muric smothered the Locatelli spot-kick.
Muric and Sassuolo snatched result
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Manuel Locatelli of Juventus has a penalty saved during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“I think the team did very well, it’s all about energy, we had it spot on today, created a lot of chances as well, so I think we deserved to go home with a point,” Muric told Sky Sport Italia.
Juventus have now failed to convert three consecutive Serie A penalties, after Kenan Yildiz and Jonathan David errors, so what was Muric thinking when Locatelli stepped up?
“It was about a feeling, the moment he kicked it, I thought I’m going to save it. I was feeling confident. The header from Milik was much more difficult, but I managed to keep that out too, so it’s a great day.”
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Domenico Berardi of US Sassuolo Calcio crosses the ball whilst under pressure from Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Sassuolo captain Domenico Berardi also congratulated Muric on his Serie A Man of the Match status.
“Aro has been giving us a big hand for a while now, he’s got great qualities and has been impressing for some time,” Berardi told Sky Sport Italia.
“We came here to have our say against a great opponent. Juventus are doing really well, but we managed to stay in the game after going behind, played with sacrifice, but also quality and good passing. We are happy to go home with a result.”
Juventus were held to a 1-1 draw by Sassuolo at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday evening, with a first half goal from Kenan Yildiz cancelled out by an Andrea Pinamonti equaliser in the second.
Late in the match, Sassuolo goalkeeper Arijanet Muric saved a Manuel Locatelli penalty, after a Jay Idzes handball.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Muric, for his penalty save and numerous other chances that kept Sassuolo in the game and earned them a hard-fought point. Meanwhile, Pinamonti, Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao also deserve praise for competent performances.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Best Juventus player: Kenan Yildiz – To nobody’s surprise, was once again the best Juventus player on the pitch. Took his goal well from the edge of the box to give the Bianconeri the lead and was unlucky not to have an assist, despite creating several great chances.
Lowest Juventus rating: Manuel Locatelli – Penalty miss aside, he was ineffective and struggled to leave his mark on the midfield. Then, when you factor in the penalty, which was saved well by Muric, turns into a pretty bad day at the office for the Italian.
Coach: Luciano Spalletti 6 – Couldn’t quite get his side to work right this evening, the coach will be frustrated after missing out on the three points. His substitutes added little to their efforts to score a late winner, aside from Dusan Vlahovic winning the penalty, although it was nice to see both Vlahovic and Milik back in action.
Best Sassuolo Player: Arijanet Muric – The Sassuolo shot-stopper was in fine form tonight. The cream of the crop was his save to deny Locatelli from the penalty spot but he made another excellent save shortly after and was alert all evening.
Lowest Sassuolo rating: Jay Idzes – May feel slightly hard done-by when the referee judged him to have committed a late handball that saw the Bianconeri get a penalty. However, it was a careless mistake and he looked the shakiest of the Neroverdi back four this evening.
Coach: Fabio Grosso 7 – Did everything right to frustrate his counterpart this evening, tried not to disrupt the status quo too much with his changes but ultimately has Muric to thank for the point this evening.
A Sassuolo side decimated by a whooping cough outbreak managed to stall Juventus, as Andrea Pinamonti replied to Kenan Yildiz, with Manuel Locatelli’s late penalty saved.
The Bianconeri were back in the hunt for Champions League spots after a 3-3 draw at Roma and two straight wins, as Jeremie Boga was chosen to lead the attack flanked by Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao from the start. Emil Holm was the only remaining absentee, with Dusan Vlahovic on the bench four months after his serious injury. Sassuolo’s build-up was dominated by an unusual outbreak of whooping cough in the squad, ruling out Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati. On top of that, Fali Candé, Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo were injured, following back-to-back defeats to Lazio and Bologna.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Arijanet Muric had to make a save in the third minute when Manuel Locatelli was allowed a free header on Boga’s corner, then Francisco Conceicao’s volley was charged down by Tarik Muharemovic on the Weston McKennie knockdown.
Juventus broke through with some route one football, as Mattia Perin captured a corner and immediately launched Conceicao down the right with a long ball, the Portuguese talent cut inside and rolled across for Kenan Yildiz to sweep into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. It was his 10th Serie A goal of the season, a new personal best.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Khephren Thuram surged forward to sting Muric’s gloves, the goalkeeper also pushing a Yildiz looping effort over the bar, but Sassuolo threatened too when Andrea Pinamonti nodded over from point-blank range at the back post when Jay Idzes flicked on a corner.
Conceicao dribbled to the by-line and pulled back for Pierre Kalulu to sweep just wide of the far bottom corner from a very promising position.
On the stroke of half-time, only a decisive Lloyd Kelly toe deflection took the Domenico Berardi roll across away from Ulisses Garcia, who was ready to tap in from six yards.
Sassuolo equalised with a similar move after the restart, as Cristian Volpato sent Berardi down the right, and this time Pinamonti was there to meet it from close range, getting in front of Gleison Bremer.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Cristian Volpato of US Sassuolo Calcio is challenged by Lloyd Kelly of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Conceicao rode one tackle, but not the Aster Vranckx challenge inside the area, and Boga tested Muric from distance.
When Boga chipped a ball over the top for Kalulu, the defender decided to knock it back for Teun Koopmeiners and the finish was deflected over.
Conceicao stood up a cross to the far post for a Boga free header, but was denied by the sensational Muric reaction save.
There was a very special moment, as Juventus gave Dusan Vlahovic his first game since November 2025, and Arkadiusz Milik had his first competitive appearance since May 25, 2024.
Vlahovic made an immediate impact, as his header struck Idzes on the arm and it was spotted by VAR for a late Juventus penalty. However, Locatelli stepped up and the weak, central spot-kick was smothered by Muric. It was the third consecutive penalty that Juventus failed to convert in Serie A.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Arijanet Muric of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates with teammates after saving a penalty from Manuel Locatelli of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Allianz Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Idzes made up for the error with a crucial clearance to stop Vlahovic tapping in the Kalulu cross, then Muric made a desperate save on the line from the Milik towering header and the attempted Vlahovic follow-up.
Kenan Yildiz fired over from a tricky angle with his left foot deep into stoppages.
One of Juventus’ forgotten stars was back on the field in Bianconeri colours on Saturday evening, when Arkadiusz Milik replaced Jeremie Boga with ten minutes left to play.
The Polish forward has been sat on the sidelines for nearly two years, having played his last match for the club in May 2024.
Since then, numerous injury setbacks have pushed the Pole right to the fringes in Turin but he made his return to the field tonight.
You can follow the end of the match, and relive all the action, as it happened, on our Live Blog.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC lies injured during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Not just Milik, as Vlahovic returns to the pitch for Juventus
Meanwhile, even more positively, Dusan Vlahovic made his return from injury, replacing Lloyd Kelly at the same time as Milik was introduced, as Spalletti looked to snatch a late winner.
The Serbian has been absent since the end of November, and has been sorely missed, especially given the struggles of Lois Openda and Jonathan David.
With Vlahovic’s contract up in the summer, the end of the season is vital to prove he is worthy of a new deal in Turin, or to persuade suitors to take a chance on him.
Carlos Cuesta made no attempt to deflect responsibility after Parma’s damaging home defeat to Cremonese, accepting personal blame and acknowledging that his side produced a performance well below the standards that had made them one of Serie A’s more compelling stories in recent months.
The result is a serious blow to Parma’s survival hopes.
Having gone five games unbeaten and given genuine cause for optimism, back-to-back defeats to Torino and now Cremonese have left Cuesta’s side looking over their shoulder with eight fixtures remaining and the gap closing in.
The Spanish coach was forthright in his assessment.
“We have not yet spoken in the dressing room, but the feeling is clear, we did not live up to expectations,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb. “We need to analyse and work to get back to the dynamic we had until two weeks ago.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Head coach Carlos Cuesta of Parma Calcio 1913 gestures during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Parma Calcio 1913 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 14, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Parma 0-2 Cremonese – Cuesta accepts blame for disappointing loss
He was equally direct when identifying where things went wrong, pointing to a lack of sharpness in pressing and duels rather than any issue with attitude.
“The first person responsible is me, I need to look at myself carefully to help the players in the best possible way.”
Cuesta also highlighted a structural problem that has lingered throughout the season, the difficulty in connecting play through the midfield to the forwards.
“If you cannot involve the midfielders and progress the ball forward, everything becomes harder,” he said. “Even when we win the ball back, we need to be more precise in exploiting the spaces before the opposition reorganises.”
With the international break now arriving, Cuesta was clear about the priority.
“Above all we need clarity, the objective has not been reached and we know how difficult the remaining calendar is,” he said. “We must focus on ourselves, improve in every area, and concentrate on the most important points to get a result against Lazio.”
Strahinja Pavlovic and Youssouf Fofana were both in good spirits after Milan’s hard-fought victory over Torino at San Siro, with the Serbian defender playing down his stunning opener and the French midfielder offering an entertaining explanation for his goal celebration.
Pavlovic, whose thunderous first-half strike set Milan on their way, was typically modest in his assessment.
“It was a great goal but also a lucky goal,” he said with a smile, via MilanNews.
His afternoon was not without frustration, however, the defender was also penalised for a penalty he claimed not to have seen. “I didn’t see it, I don’t know what to say. The goal is luck, the penalty is bad luck.”
Despite his self-deprecating take, he was generous in sharing the plaudits, singling out Fofana for special praise. “Today everything was done, great goal and a penalty. Fofana deserves the MVP award.”
ITALY – MARCH 21: Strahinja Pavlovic celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan 3-2 Torino – Fofana explains his goal celebration
The Frenchman himself was characteristically candid about Milan’s first-half struggles, revealing that a sharp dressing room conversation at the break helped spark the turnaround.
“After the first half we understood that we had not been truly aggressive in the attacking phase,” Fofana said, with quotes again courtesy of MilanNews. “So we came back out with more desire and scored two goals.”
On his celebration, Fofana was entertainingly vague.
“It was a mix between Rafa and Pulisic, I dedicated it to them, well not exactly dedicated, but maybe I will score more goals,” he laughed.
The midfielder also could not resist a gentle dig at his teammate, revealing that Pavlovic’s spectacular strike was perhaps less surprising than it looked. “He shoots everywhere at the start of training,” Fofana said.
Massimiliano Allegri could barely contain his emotion after Milan edged a 3-2 victory over Torino, a result that keeps the Rossoneri firmly in the hunt for Inter’s lead at the top of Serie A.
The win was all the more significant given defeats against Parma and Lazio in the past month had briefly threatened to derail Milan’s title challenge at a critical stage of the season.
Allegri was so wound up during the match that he was caught telling referee Doveri he would quit football, a comment he addressed with characteristic humour in his post-match interview, with quotes via MilanNews.
“It was the heat of the moment,” he laughed. “I am getting on in years and I would not want my heart to give out. The match was very important for us at that point.”
The first half was not straightforward, with Torino presenting real problems in the first 30 minutes.
“We were forcing play inside the field too much and conceding too many counter-attacks,” Allegri admitted. “In the second half the players grew physically too, which was not easy after the equaliser at the end of the first half.”
Tactically, Allegri shed light on Alexis Saelemaekers’ demanding role in his 4-3-3.
“He is our balance player, when we defend he must be the fifth, when we attack he must be the third forward. Sometimes he arrives at the end of games a little spent.” The introduction of Pulisic wide helped open up a Torino side with a compact central block.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan 3-2 Torino – Allegri defends Fullkrug and gives Pavlovic his flowers
Niklas Fullkrug was another subject of analysis, with Allegri defending the German striker while pointing to a broader truth about players who lack consistent minutes.
“It is not easy when you do not have continuity, the physical structure suffers,” he said. “He had a difficult first half but a much better second. Compare that to Ricci, who because of his physicality and mentality can come on at any point and immediately be in match mode. Players are different.”
The head coach was clear that Fullkrug’s second-half improvement was the kind of response he needed.
On Strahinja Pavlovic’s performance, capped off with a spectacular goal from range, Allegri was full of praise.
“He played a great match tonight, he has improved a lot,” he said. “He has character, soul, he defended well in open play. He is growing significantly and I am delighted.”
With the international break now arriving, Allegri took the opportunity for a light-hearted dig at his forwards.
“This week I ask nothing of anyone, the break is the only thing I asked them not to ruin for me. But the attackers will return to scoring in the decisive moments after the pause.”
Next up after the break is a trip to Napoli, second versus third, a match Allegri described simply as “a beautiful evening of football and sport.”
Sassuolo director Giovanni Carnevali admits it has ‘not been an easy week’ for them dealing with a whooping cough outbreak, but they ‘feel ready to have our say’ against Juventus anyway.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Kristian Thorstvedt of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Neroverdi are dealing with a truly extraordinary situation, as an outbreak of whooping cough has spread throughout the squad.
There is one confirmed diagnosis, with five others isolated after exhibiting symptoms, although the club has not named any of them due to privacy concerns.
It is fairly easy to work out who is missing from the squad today, namely Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati.
Sassuolo were already without injured Fali Candé, Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo.
Carnevali has faith in decimated Sassuolo
SASSUOLO, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Giovanni Carnevali, US Sassuolo Calcio CEO, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on December 06, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“When you face a side like Juventus, you will always have extra motivation, regardless of the circumstances. We know that we are not in the best situation possible, but we do feel ready to have our say in this game.
“The players who were taken ill are already improving, it’s part of the game and it gives an opportunity to those who haven’t played as much.”
The build-up has seen Sassuolo bring back Covid-era protocols to prevent the spread of this highly-infectious illness, which can even be fatal for babies.
That includes not shaking hands before kick-off, no exchange of jerseys at the final whistle, while families were warned not to get too close together in the stands either.
“Even if we haven’t beaten the big clubs yet this season, we always caused them a lot of problems.”
Darryl Bakola joins Sassuolo from Olympique Marseille
There is a first start for 18-year-old Darryl Bakola, who was purchased from Olympique Marseille in January for €10m plus €2m in add-ons.
“He is a young player and Sassuolo always trust youth, we made a big investment, we wanted him at all costs and beat a lot of competition from more prestigious clubs,” explained Carnevali.
“His growth process certainly doesn’t depend on this match, it’s a long-term project, and we believe Sassuolo is the ideal club for him to flourish.”
The Neroverdi have a veteran too, but Domenico Berardi was not called up for the Italy squad going into the 2026 World Cup play-offs.
“I had hoped he would get that call, as Domenico is having a great season. We’ve just got to hope that the Nazionale reach the World Cup, regardless of Berardi.”
Luciano Spalletti warns against Juventus getting ‘arrogant’ due to the Sassuolo whooping cough crisis, while he welcomes back Dusan Vlahovic and trusts Jeremie Boga in a new role.
Sassuolo are in a very strange situation, as there is one confirmed case of whooping cough in the squad, and another four players who have been isolated after showing symptoms.
Although the club has not named any of them due to privacy concerns, notably Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati are not here today.
The Neroverdi were already without injured Fali Candé, Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo, but Spalletti refuses to see this as an advantage.
Spalletti does not expect struggling Sassuolo
UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 14: Luciano Spalletti, Juventus manager, reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Friuli on March 14, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“Any team usually has 15-16 first choice players, naturally there are some who play more, but that doesn’t mean the others aren’t valid,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.
“I remember during the Covid era when there were only 13 players who came here with Napoli, we got a draw with a wonderful Mertens goal. So this sort of thing can create a bit of arrogance if you are not intelligent enough to handle the news, or on the other side gives you extra motivation to give something more and help your teammates out.”
The Bianconeri got themselves back in the hunt for a Champions League spot thanks to the fightback for a 3-3 draw at Roma, then two consecutive Serie A victories over Pisa and Udinese.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Jeremie Boga of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Among the keys to the turnaround was the move to a 4-3-3 formation, with Jeremie Boga as the centre-forward this time from the start rather than at half-time, sending Jonathan David to the bench.
“I asked all those who worked with Boga, they said he has to play on the left, but when I put him in the centre, he proved that he knows how to hurt the opposition centre-backs,” explained Spalletti.
“If he has 10 metres behind him, he can use that with a lethal change of pace, it’s impossible to keep up with him. So we’ll try to make the most of that, as well as his technique, as he does well with the ball at his feet.”
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Dusan Vlahovic is back on the bench for the first time since November 29, when he suffered a serious thigh injury, and his future at the club remains to be seen with a contract that expires on June 30.
“Arek Milik is on the bench too, so we’ve got four centre-forwards on the bench. Vlahovic is doing well, naturally he has different characteristics, he had a lot of difficulty sticking to the rules after a very serious injury, but seeing as we are at the end of that process now, we will try not to do any more damage.”
Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez made his first appearance for Milan since October, when he came on as a 70th minute substitute for Niclas Fullkrug in the Rossoneri’s 3-2 win over Torino on Saturday evening.
The former Feyenoord forward underwent ankle surgery in December following a recurring issue that had been plaguing his fitness.
After the surgery was a success, Gimenez began his road to recovery and rejoined full training with his teammates this month.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan celebrates after scoring to give the side a 1-0 lead during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Milan welcome Gimenez back at crucial juncture
It is a welcome boost for both club and country, with the Rossoneri struggling up front as of late and Mexico preparing to welcome the FIFA World Cup to its shores in the Summer.
Fullkrug’s flat performance tonight will have only strengthened the Mexican’s position as he strives to play a pivotal part in the end of Milan’s season.
With the win tonight, Milan moved within five points of league leaders and fierce city rivals Inter, albeit with the Nerazzurri still to play this weekend – they travel to Fiorentina on Sunday.
Milan scored a quick fire double early into the second half to secure a 3-2 victory over Torino, temporarily closing the gap on league leaders Inter to five points ahead of the Nerazzurri’s match at Fiorentina on Sunday.
Football Italia’s Man of the Match was Rossoneri defender Strahinja Pavlovic, for his phenomenal long-range effort to put his side 1-0 up and resolute defensive performance, despite giving away a late penalty after pulling down Simeone in the box.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Youssouf Fofana of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammates during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Best Milan player: Strahinja Pavlovic – Despite giving away the late penalty, he more than made up for it with his efforts beforehand. Scored an outrageous goal from distance in the first half and worked really hard defensively to break up Torino’s attacks.
Lowest Milan rating: Niclas Fullkrug – Still yet to really settle in at Milan, the German stood in for the injured Rafael Leao tonight but did himself no favours in establishing a more permanent place in the team. Was largely very ineffective before being replaced with twenty minutes left to play.
Coach: Massimiliano Allegri 7 – Will be happy with the way his side dominated possession of the ball but will perhaps be disappointed that the chance creation is still missing something. His substitutes really helped Milan stay fresh, and Athekame even picked up an assist.
Best Torino player: Nikola Vlasic – Capped off an impressive midfield display with a late consolation goal from the penalty spot, the Croatian worked hard all evening, firing off attempts on goal, creating chances and also working hard defensively.
Lowest Torino rating: Saul Coco – Really struggled to win his individual battles on the right-hand side of the back three and his passing was also lacklustre.
Coach: Roberto D’Aversa 6 – Quite unlucky as despite their lack of possession, the visitors fashioned a number of good chances and perhaps deserved a point. Still showing signs of improvement under the coach, who seems to have no trouble in getting 100% out of his players.
Milan got back on track with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Torino, including spectacular Strahinja Pavlovic strike from distance, and Santiago Gimenez made his comeback.
The Rossoneri were feeling the pressure after going from Scudetto dream to nightmare in the space of a week, their defeat to Lazio leaving them closer to fifth place than the leaders. Rafael Leao had an adductor injury, so Niclas Fullkrug stepped in, with Santiago Gimenez on the bench for the first time since October. Davide Bartesaghi and Adrien Rabiot were also available again. Toro had two wins and a narrow defeat to Napoli since replacing Marco Baroni with Roberto D’Aversa, but missed Zakaria Aboukhlal, Alieu Njie and Zanos Savva.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Roberto D’Aversa, Head Coach of Torino, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was an aggressive start from the visitors, as Matteo Prati fired over from the edge of the box, then Nikola Vlasic got in front of Koni De Winter and Mike Maignan to flick on the Marcus Pedersen ball across the face of goal.
Maignan fingertipped a looping Ardian Ismajli header out from under the bar on a corner, while Christian Pulisic and Bartesaghi had efforts charged down inside the area.
Rabiot unleashed a screamer from distance that Albert Paleari flew to palm away, and it was only a warning for Milan to take the lead moments later. Saul Coco nodded a cross clear to around 25 yards, where Pavlovic took a touch, let it bounce, and smashed the left-footed half-volley in off the underside of the crossbar.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Duvan Zapata tested Maignan at the near post moments later, and Pavlovic’s goal-line clearance on Pedersen wouldn’t have counted because Simeone was offside on the assist.
Torino did equalise on the stroke of half-time, as Maignan got down for a one-handed save on the Vlasic effort from the edge of the area, it took a double ricochet off the upright and his shoulder, until Simeone was quickest to react on the loose ball.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Giovanni Simeone of Torino celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
After the restart, Milan were much more aggressive after changing to a four-man defence. Ismajli came sliding in to charge down a Pulisic effort, and Bartesaghi’s volley was deflected wide.
The pressure eventually paid off when Christian Pulisic pulled across from the right and Rabiot was ready to bundle it over the line from point-blank range with his knee. It was his first goal scored at San Siro in the Rossoneri jersey.
Moments later they extended their advantage, as Zachary Athekame’s through ball was gathered by Fofana, who was allowed to take three touches and turn in a crowd of Torino players, firing in from 13 yards.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Youssouf Fofana of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammates during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Maignan made a sensational reaction save, sticking out a trailing leg to deny Simeone’s first-time sweep from 12 yards, then Cholito had another dangerous volley charged down for a corner.
There was a big moment, as Santiago Gimenez made his return after ankle surgery, his first appearance since the end of October 2025.
Samuele Ricci nearly scored against his former club, Alberto Paleari getting down to parry at the near post, but just before that was an incident that was spotted by VAR. Pavlovic had dragged back Simeone with an arm across his face and neck inside the penalty area, so even if he wasn’t going to reach the ball, it was a clear foul.
A penalty was awarded and converted into the top corner by Nikola Vlasic to get Torino back into the game.
The Granata had more penalty appeals for a Koni De Winter handball, but the arm was judged to be in a natural position.
Juventus have Dusan Vlahovic back in the squad after four months, but Jeremie Boga starts with Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao against a Sassuolo side affected by a virus outbreak.
UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 14: Luciano Spalletti, Juventus manager, looks on during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Friuli on March 14, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri are back in the hunt for a top four finish after the 3-3 thriller with Roma, then back-to-back victories over Pisa and Udinese.
The key was dropping Jonathan David for Boga as a False 9, flanked by Conceicao and Yildiz, so that is repeated here today with Boga facing his former club.
Emil Holm is now the only remaining absentee, because both long-term injury cases Vlahovic and Arek Milik are on the bench.
Mattia Perin keeps the gloves, with Khephren Thuram preferred to Teun Koopmeiners.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
The identities of the players affected were not confirmed, with only one confirmed case of pertussis, which is an infection of the lungs and breathing tubes.
The Neroverdi had been on fine form until recently, then suffered back-to-back defeats with Lazio and Bologna.
Sassuolo were already missing injured Fali Candé, Alieu Fadera, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo.
The players not in the squad are Nemanja Matic, Kristian Thorstvedt, Woyo Coulibaly and Stefano Turati.
These teams met on January 6, with Juve running out 3-0 winners away from home.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MARCH 01: Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo celebrates with his team during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Atalanta BC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on March 01, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Atletico Madrid have already made their move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, submitting a formal offer ahead of the summer transfer window as sporting director Mateu Alemany prioritises a new central midfielder.
However, Atalanta are holding firm at a minimum fixed fee of €40 million plus add-ons, a stance that could push the total value of any deal towards €50 million.
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Ederson with his teammates of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring the opening goal from penalty spot during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on February 14, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Atletico ready to try and try again for Atalanta’s Ederson
It is not the first time Atletico have pursued Ederson.
The Spanish club attempted to sign the 26-year-old during the January window before turning their attention elsewhere after Atalanta rejected their approach. Their persistence suggests he remains their primary target heading into the summer.
Time is beginning to work in Atletico’s favour.
Ederson’s contract runs until 2027, meaning Atalanta will soon find themselves with a player entering the final year of his deal, a position that typically forces clubs into a difficult choice between selling or risking losing a valuable asset for a reduced fee or even nothing at all.
Should renewal talks stall, Atalanta’s negotiating position weakens considerably.
For now, a gap remains between the two clubs’ valuations, and any deal is expected to be revisited in the coming months rather than concluded imminently.
Luka Modric reached yet another remarkable milestone during Milan’s clash with Torino on Saturday, making his 550th appearance in Europe’s Big 5 leagues, a figure that places him second on the all-time list among players who debuted in the top divisions from the 2008/09 season onwards.
According to OptaPaolo, only Antoine Griezmann has made more appearances in Europe’s elite leagues since that cut-off point, with the Atletico Madrid forward ahead on 555. The Croatian legend’s longevity at the very highest level is quite extraordinary.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Luka Modric of AC Milan celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between AC Milan and Inter at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 08, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan star Modric makes 550th appearance in Europe’s Top 5 leagues
Modric began his Big 5 league journey with Tottenham Hotspur, where he made 127 Premier League appearances between 2008 and 2012, scoring 13 goals.
He then spent 13 years at Real Madrid, accumulating 394 La Liga appearances and 30 goals between 2012 and 2025 before making the move to Milan last summer.
He has now added 29 Serie A outings to that remarkable tally, with two goals to his name in what has been an impressive debut season in Italy.
Now 40 years old, Modric shows little sign of slowing down, a fact that has been noted with admiration by former teammates, opponents and observers alike.
Alessandro Nesta recently described him as “a monster of humility” who applies himself with extraordinary dedication, while Andriy Shevchenko was similarly struck by his physical condition during a recent visit to Milanello.
Parma chief executive Federico Cherubini made no attempt to defend his side after a chastening home defeat to Cremonese, openly acknowledging that the supporters who booed at the final whistle were entirely justified in their reaction.
The result is a damaging one for Parma, whose hopes of pulling clear of the relegation zone now look considerably more precarious with eight games remaining, especially with Cremonese picking up the three points.
The defeat makes it back-to-back losses after a run of form that had briefly raised optimism around Carlos Cuesta’s side, and Cherubini was in no mood to sugarcoat the situation.
PARMA, ITALY – MARCH 21: Youssef Maleh of Cremonese celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Federico Bonazzoli during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and US Cremonese at Stadio Ennio Tardini on March 21, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Parma 0-2 Cremonese – Cherubini: ‘The boos were deserved’
“The boos were deserved and there is nothing to argue about, the picture is accurate,” he told DAZN, with quotes via AlfredoPedulla.com.
“I think it is entirely normal that supporters react the way they did to a performance like today’s. We must remain united in this moment and understand that the objective we thought was close is still very far away.”
Cherubini had issued a similar warning before the Torino defeat, and his message now carries even greater urgency.
“I don’t think it was a lack of concentration but unfortunately we come off the back of a very poor performance and the objective will be extremely difficult to reach,” he said.
The CEO did, however, identify one potential silver lining. The forthcoming international break arrives at a convenient moment for a squad badly in need of regrouping. “The pause comes at the right time to allow us to recompact the team,” he said.
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