Juventus can catch Milan in third place as they host Kieron Bowie’s already-relegated Verona, as Kenan Yildiz returns to the starting XI with Jonathan David and Francisco Conceicao.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 19: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Allianz Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have a big opportunity to lock down that Champions League spot after Como were held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli, with Roma facing Fiorentina on Monday evening.
Above all, Milan’s 2-0 defeat at Sassuolo means a victory will put Juve in joint third place.
Dusan Vlahovic is in the squad again after a calf injury during a warm-up last month, while Kenan Yildiz has shaken off that recurring inflammation to start after two games as a substitute.
David and Conceicao complete the attack, sending Jeremie Boga to the bench.
Weston McKennie and Andrea Cambiaso are on the flanks of a 3-4-3 formation.
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Jonathan David of Juventus reacts during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Gift Orban is again frozen out after his physical altercation with a fan in the car park a couple of weeks ago, and is unlikely to play for Hellas again.
Nicolas Valentini is suspended, with Armel Bella-Kotchap joining Cheikh Niasse, Daniel Oyegoke, Suat Serdar and Daniel Mosquera on the treatment table.
Toma Suslov partners Scotland international Bowie upfront.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Kieron Bowie of Hellas Verona is challenged by Sead Kolasinac of Atalanta 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)
Juventus vs. Verona line-ups
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly; McKennie, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; Conceicao, Yildiz; David
Milan crumbled in a 2-0 defeat to Sassuolo when down to 10 men for over an hour due to Fikayo Tomori’s red card, as Domenico Berardi and Armand Laurienté scored.
The Rossoneri could catch Napoli in second place with a victory and consolidate the Champions League spot, but Luka Modric’s season was over after surgery for a fractured cheekbone. Ardon Jashari stepped in, with Christopher Nkunku pushing off-form Christian Pulisic to the bench. Domenico Berardi was back after a two-match ban for the Neroverdi, though Darryl Bakola, Fali Cande, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo were injured.
It took under five minutes for Berardi to confirm his extraordinary record against Milan, as this was his 12th career goal past them. Kristian Thorstvedt robbed Jashari in midfield and it was quickly moved left to right, for Berardi to bend a first-time finish into the far bottom corner with the inside of the left foot.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fabio Grosso (L), Head Coach of US Sassuolo reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Moments later, Mike Maignan made a one-handed save on the M’Bala Nzola counter-attack, while both teams had penalty appeals waved away as Berardi had his arm behind his back, then Armand Laurienté went down too easily under pressure from Matteo Gabbia, the same with Christopher Nkunku at the other end.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Rafael Leao wasted a golden opportunity when blasting wide with only the goalkeeper to beat after a defensive error sent him clear on goal.
Things went from bad to worse for Milan, as Fikayo Tomori brought down Laurienté on the counter for his second yellow card, leaving his team down to 10 for over an hour.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan reacts after Fabio Maresca, referee of the match shows to hi a red card during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Strahinja Pavlovic made a decisive block on Thorstvedt and Jay Idzes limped off injured, while Alexis Saelemaekers drilled wide.
Sassuolo doubled their lead within 90 seconds of the restart, as Laurienté completed a give and go with Thorstvedt just inside the area, the finish thumped low and hard into the near bottom corner.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Armand Laurienté of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Zachary Athekame fired over, while Nzola and Thorstvedt failed to keep their efforts on target, while both Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Alieu Fadera were booked for simulation in the box.
This result means that with a victory over Verona today, Juventus could catch Milan in joint third place, while they have failed to score in six of the last 10 games.
Gian Piero Gasperini has provided a positive update on the fitness of key players Paulo Dybala and Manu Kone and says that if Roma are still in the fight for a Champions League spot, it is entirely down to the work that the players have put in: ‘The squad has been special, I thank them’.
Gasperini sat down for his customary pre-match press conference on Sunday ahead of Monday evening’s clash against a Fiorentina side that are unbeaten across their last seven Serie A matches.
Roma find themselves in sixth place ahead of kick-off. They will have an opportunity to move clear of Como, who are one point better off than the Giallorossi having played one game more than them. The big target, however, is Juventus in fourth place, who have three points more than Roma having played the same number of matches.
Gasperini on Roma pride, visit from the owners, Dybala, Kone and Wesley
Heading into the final four matches of the 2025-26 season, Gasperini has confirmed that both Dybala and Kone are back and available for selection again.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Manu Kone with his teammates of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on January 10, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“Kone has recovered, Dybala had already recovered. This week has gone better. They’re available,” Gasperini said (via TMW).
Gasperini is also expected to meet with Roma’s owners in the near future: “The presence of the ownership is a signal,” he said. “Maybe they will start making moves not just for the end of the season, but also in view of the future.”
Gasperini was asked if he considers this season to have been a ‘transitional’ year for the Giallorossi.
He replied: “There are two tracks: The current season, which is still alive and tomorrow we’ll play against a Fiorentina side that is coming in off the back of a lot of positive results. We’re fully focused on that since we’re still in the race. The team’s behaviour has been excellent, we will try to kick on in these four games.
“Then, we will start talking about the future, however, right now is not the time. Afterwards, I will try to be clear because the fans need to understand what we’re doing.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
With Claudio Ranieri having recently left the club and with the future of sporting director Ricky Massara looking uncertain, Gasperini was asked if there are any concerns that Roma could fall behind their Serie A rivals in terms of planning for next season and the upcoming transfer window.
“Of course, there has already been a bit of development. We have recalibrated after suffering a big, unexpected disappointment. However, I don’t think that the other teams have already started planning. The ownership will have plenty of time and clarity to deal with these things, but when they do, they will do it in the best possible way.”
Gasperini avoided answering questions about his relationship with Massara, though: “I’m going back to Fiorentina, that’s very important. As for the rest, we’ll talk about it when the time comes. The club will speak. There is no need to go into detail now.”
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 Roma boss hopes to take inspiration from the club’s women’s team, who have recently claimed the Scudetto for the third time in four years.
“The women’s Scudetto was fantastic, we want to imitate them, even if the Scudetto is a little too far ahead for us,” Gasperini laughed.
Gasp was also asked for his opinion on the recent 5-4 thriller between PSG and Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final.
“I enjoyed it, I liked it a lot. There were some mistakes, but there were also some wonderful technical moments. The game was enjoyable for everyone.
“This is not the best moment for the Italians in the cups, but we need to react and not give up. Maybe we’re not doing the right things. We find it difficult against them all. Maybe it’s about how teams are built here. Replicating that style of football is difficult, it depends on the quality of the players.”
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 22: AS Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar competes for the ball with Finn Jeltsch of VfB Stuttgart during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between AS Roma and VfB Stuttgart at Stadio Olimpico on January 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gasp was then asked for his assessment of his team’s performance so far in 2025-26.
He said: “The squad has been a bit special this year, it’s not easy. We’re still in the race and I give the credit to the team. Extraordinary professionalism and togetherness. The response in Bologna was fantastic.”
It was then pointed out to Gasperini that his side tends to underperform in the final stages of matches, especially compared to their direct rivals in the league.
“Probably, however, we’re ahead in other numbers. We’re fifth in the standings. It’s true, we don’t often manage to get points in the final moments, which many other teams do obtain. However, we will work to improve on that.”
The Roma gaffer was also asked if he has any plans to swap Wesley back to the right flank at any stage, having featured on the left for the majority of the 2025-26 campaign.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Wesley of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“He’s a player who’s gone through an important evolution. He can play both on the right and on the left, although he is of course a right-footer. When you have strong players, you can put them on the pitch and then find their most suitable position.
“It also depends on the situation. In this period, we’ve had Celik available, but we’ve practically never had Angelino and that was a big loss. Wesley is a valuable player and that’s the main thing.”
Is Gasperini ‘satisfied’ with his squad’s results so far this campaign?
“Everyone has room for improvement. You acquire value at all ages. I’m satisfied. Everyone has played, everyone has given their contribution. There’s not been a problem of behaviour, ever. I thank them. If we’re still in it, it’s thanks to them.”
Life became more difficult for Milan in their Serie A match away against Sassuolo after the 24th-minute red card shown to centre-back Fikayo Tomori. Here is how the England international managed to get himself sent off midway through the first half at the Mapei Stadium.
Tomori sees red after 24 minutes of Sassuolo vs. Milan
With his side trailing 1-0 after Domenico Berardi’s early opener for Sassuolo, Tomori was sent off for two separate yellow card offences on Sunday afternoon.
The first booking came in the ninth minute for a trip on Kristian Thorstvedt just inside the Sassuolo half, which led referee Fabio Maresca to immediately reach for his yellow card.
Tomori’s afternoon was over a quarter of an hour later after tripping up Armand Lauriente right on the halfway line in a very similar position to his first booking 15 minutes earlier.
There were few complaints from the Milan camp after the decision to send off Tomori, who took himself straight down the tunnel in the 24th minute.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 05: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Fiorentina at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Despite being a centre-back down, Allegri decided against making any personnel changes before the end of the first half.
Italy international Riccardo Calafiori returned to action after nearly a month for Arsenal on Saturday, prompting reactions from some of his teammates, including Declan Rice, on Instagram.
Calafiori played the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Fulham on Saturday, making his first appearance since April 7 when he had played the full match in a 1-0 away victory over Sporting CP in the Champions League.
Since then, the ex-Roma and Bologna defender had not featured for the Gunners until yesterday due to an unspecified injury.
Calafiori’s celebrated Arsenal’s latest victory on social media, sharing a series of photos on Instagram, accompanied by a caption in both English and Spanish.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – AUGUST 17: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Declan Rice during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“No pares, sigues, sigues,” wrote the Italian defender. A Spanish message that means “Don’t stop, continue, continue.”
Calafiori’s social media post after Arsenal win and return from injury
Calafiori’s post received nearly 2,000 comments in less than 24 hours, including those of his teammates Leandro Trossard, Rice and Jurrien Timber as well as Calafiori’s agents at World Soccer Agency.
Rice used what appears to be a Calafiori nickname: “Calafiorio,” while Trossard used a heart face emonji to celebrate the Italian’s return to action.
Milan director Igli Tare insists the club is ‘in sync’ with coach Max Allegri when planning for next season, and admits he is watching Sassuolo midfielder Ismael Kone.
The Rossoneri know a victory here would put them in joint second with Napoli, but above all take another significant step towards locking down that Champions League qualification.
Tare planning Milan future
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There was a three-hour summit today at the club headquarters involving directors and coach Allegri to plan the transfer strategy for the summer, so are they on the same page?
“We are all in sync and almost every week we have a meal together with the coach and director Furlani, so we are united on what we need to do for next season and what this team is missing,” Tare told DAZN Italia.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Fikayo Tomori of AC Milan celebrates the victory at the end of 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)
“We have some very good players in the youth team who have trained with the senior squad, so we are keeping a close eye on them too.”
Christopher Nkunku is drafted in to partner Rafael Leao, sending misfiring Christian Pulisic to the bench after he matched his career record longest negative streak of 16 games without a goal.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Considering the difficulty pushing players like Leao into the 3-5-2 formation, are they evaluating other tactical systems too?
“Looking at some of the characteristics of the players that allow us to play a different way, we will try to be prepared with not just a team that has quality, but can also play in different systems.”
There have been reports that Milan are among the clubs ready to bid for Canada international midfielder Ismael Kone this summer.
“He had a very good season with Sassuolo, he has important characteristics and played at a high level in France too, so he can attract a lot of attention on the transfer market for Sassuolo,” confirmed Tare.
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Ismael Koné of Sassuolo (2nd from left) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Luka Modric is out for the rest of the season after surgery on a fractured cheekbone, which he sustained during an accidental clash of heads with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli in last week’s 0-0 draw.
The midfielder is expected to extend his contract beyond June 30 and hopes to make a full recovery in time to feature for Croatia in the 2026 World Cup next month.
The upcoming Serie A match between Sassuolo and Milan on Sunday afternoon will be available to watch live on TikTok in the UK and Ireland, the first time that an Italian league match has been broadcast on the social media platform.
Sassuolo vs. Milan available to watch on DAZN, TikTok and YouTube
DECEMBER 14: Davide Bartesaghi celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match against US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Broadcaster DAZN have partnered with the social media platform TikTok to livestream a Serie A match in the UK and Ireland for the first time.
The idea is for the game to introduce Serie A football to new audiences through TikTok’s discovery and community features, with the aim of turning casual viewers into regular fans of Italian football.
The Sassuolo vs. Milan match will still be available to watch on DAZN’s regular platform, as well as through the @DAZNFootball account on TikTok, and on DAZN’s YouTube channel.
Bologna were held to an underwhelming 0-0 draw at home against Cagliari in Serie A on Sunday afternoon, the third consecutive Italian top-flight match to end goalless.
Bologna came into Sunday’s clash ranked ninth in Serie A, while the 16th-placed Cagliari came in needing a victory to ensure mathematical safety with three games to spare. Vincenzo Italiano’s side were without goalkeeper Lukasz Skorpuski, Joao Mario, Nicolo Cambiaghi and Thijs Dallinga, and Cagliari travelled without Riyad Idrissi, Luca Mazzitelli, Mattia Felici, Leonardo Pavoletti and Gennaro Borrelli.
Fans during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Federico Bernardeschi registered the game’s first shot on target after 25 minutes, coming in off the right flank and attempting to bend his left-footed shot into the far corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area. Nothing that Elia Caprile couldn’t handle, though.
Teenage goalkeeper Massimo Pessina was called into action in the 45th minute, improvising well to deny Sebastiano Esposito at his near post.
MAY 03: Sebastiano Esposito of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Benja Dominguez thought he had a shout for a penalty immediately afterwards after feeling a hand on the back from Yerry Mina down at the other end, but this was waved away with no further reviews.
Caprile had to get down low and get a strong hand out to deny Nikola Moro’s dipping shot from the edge of the penalty area 10 minutes after the re-start.
Substitute Santiago Castro struck the ball well from a tight angle 66 minutes in, but Caprile was again well positioned at his near post and got his full body behind the shot.
Ze Pedro had a glorious opportunity to send Cagliari 1-0 up 10 minutes from time: Michael Folorunsho had done well to send a cross back into a busy Bologna penalty area, which fell kindly for Ze Pedro, who managed to blast his first-time finish over the crossbar from the edge of the six-yard box.
After 0-0 draws between Como and Napoli and between Atalanta and Genoa on Saturday evening, this was the third consecutive Serie A match to end goalless. Bologna are now four games without a win across all competitions, while Cagliari are not quite safe from relegation just yet.
MAY 03: Fabio Pisacane head coach of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Cagliari Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on May 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Milan must cope without Luka Modric, who has been forced to finish the season early due to a cheekbone injury that required surgery earlier this week.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Ardon Jashari replaces the Croatian star in central midfield for the Rossoneri, while Christian Pulisic starts on the bench.
The USMNT star hasn’t yet scored a goal in 2026, so Massimiliano Allegri picks Leao and Nkunku up front.
Fali Candè, Edoardo Pieragnolo, Daniel Boloca and Darryl Bakola, but their star winger Berardi returns to action after serving a two-game ban.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 20: Domenico Berardi of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 20, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Milan have a five-point lead over fifth-placed Como with a game in hand, but the Rossoneri have only won two of their last five league games.
According to multiple reports in Italy, former Referee Designator Gianluca Rocchi was allegedly caught on wiretap telling VAR supervisor Andrea Gervasoni that ‘they’ no longer wanted to see a particular referee. Yet, exactly who Rocchi was referring to remains unclear.
A probe into alleged sports fraud in Italy remains ongoing, with five individuals connected to the refereeing profession currently under investigation.
Among them is Serie A and Serie B Designator Rocchi, who suspended himself earlier this week.
Gazzetta and Corriere della Sera report provide the latest updates on the matter on Sunday.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 10: Referee Gianluca Rocchi reacts during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final first leg match between Manchester United and FC Barcelona at Old Trafford on April 10, 2019 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
According to both sources, Rocchi was caught on wiretap in April 2025 telling Gervasoni, who is also under investigation: “They don’t want to see him anymore.”
During the same conversation, Rocchi also mentioned the name “Giorgio”, leading investigators to believe that the ex-Referee Designator referred to Inter’s Referee Manager Giorgio Schenone.
The Milan Prosecutors did try to precisely identify who “they” referred to, obtaining authorisation from the investigating judge for additional weeks of wiretaps on certain targets.
AIA chief Gianluca Rocchi (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
However, in early summer 2025, the judge brought the surveillance to an end, rejecting a request for a further extension after the additional wiretaps failed to produce any new evidence.
Currently, there are five people under investigation, but none from clubs.
The 0-0 draw between Milan and Juventus on April 26, 2026, has drawn criticism in Italy for the defensive playing styles of both teams, resulting in an inevitable stalemate.
Milan’s recent meeting with Juventus at San Siro has been the subject of severe criticism from fans and the media alike, as the Rossoneri and the Bianconeri produced too little in a match once regarded as a Serie A classic.
Milan and Juventus criticised after 0-0 draw
The draw allowed Milan and Juventus to keep Como and Roma at a safe distance with just four games remaining in the 2025-26 Serie A campaign.
Inter and Napoli have practically secured Champions League qualification, and betting odds sports indicate that the race for the remaining two places will go down to the wire over the final four matches of the season.
bCasino New Zealandonline casino bonuses suggest that Milan and Juventus remain favourites to qualify for Europe’s elite competition, yet their recent display at San Siro was far from pleasing.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Jonathan David of Juventus is challenged by Davide Bartesaghi of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Juventus had the best chance in the first half when Khephren Thuram had a goal disallowed for offside, while the Rossoneri hit the crossbar with Alexis Saelemaekers after the break.
Former Serie A defender Daniele Adani, who has now become one of the most prominent pundits in Italy, didn’t hold back when analysing the match during TV show Domenica Sportiva.
“In my opinion, half of Italy is happy with this kind of match,” he said via Milannews.
“How many people do you hear saying that the best defence is simply not conceding? But how many tomorrow will be celebrating with phrases like ‘We didn’t allow the opposition a single shot on target,’ or ‘The objective is Champions League qualification?’
“I’ve been saying for 10 years that, if we want to align ourselves with the rest of the football world, we need to play with intensity, tempo, and attacking intent. Yet, I’m dismissed as a philosopher or a theorist whenever I argue that this style of football is not exportable,” he continued.
“And then we’re told that European competitions should be played abroad to help export the product.
“But the truth is that we’re a laughing stock. We don’t excite anymore. Anyone who watched Milan vs. Juventus switched off after 15 minutes. I have the perfect quote for that first half: ‘Nothing left to do, but cry.”
Juventus coach Spalletti was also unhappy with his team’s performance, arguing that his players are still not mature enough.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We do well in possession, but we lose something in the duels,” he said at a post-match press conference.
“Sometimes we produce a great surge, only to make simple mistakes on easy passes. We need to consistently maintain a high level of balance. Today, under no circumstances could we afford to lose this match. It seemed to me that more than winning, they were absolutely determined not to lose it.”
Canada international David is facing an uncertain future at Juventus after an up-and-down first season at the Allianz Stadium.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Jonathan David of Juventus and Evan Ndicka of AS Roma battle for possession during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
David has scored six goals and provided four assists in 32 Serie A games and earns €6m net per season plus €2m add-ons.
According to Tuttosport, Turkish side Fenerbahce are interested in the 26-year-old, and so are Premier League side Aston Villa.
Unai Emery is a long-time admirer of the Canadian forward and was already interested in signing him last summer, before Juventus eventually secured a deal on a free transfer.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
According to the report, David is not entirely convinced about leaving Juventus at the end of the season, and the Serie A giants won’t necessarily sell him unless they receive a convincing offer.
David has a few games left to convince Juventus to keep him, starting with today’s Serie A match against Hellas Verona at the Allianz Stadium, where he’s expected to start as the lone striker.
It kicks off at 12:30 CET (11:30 BST) at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
The stadium will be sold out even if Vincenzo Italiano’s side has little chance of qualifying for Europe and players were booed after the previous match against Roma.
Bologna sit ninth in the standings, seven points below seventh-placed Atalanta, while Cagliari need a final push to secure survival, being eight points above Cremonese in 18th.
Skorupski, Dallinga, Joao Mario, Cambiaghi and Casale are unavailable for Bologna, while Cagliari have travelled to Emilia Romagna without the likes of Idrissi, Mazzitelli, Felici, Pavoletti, Borrelli, and Liteta.
Cristian Chivu’s Inter are just one point away from winning the 2025-26 Serie A title as the Nerazzurri only need a draw in tonight’s home game against Parma to secure the Scudetto with three games to spare.
Inter are practically certain of winning the 21st domestic title in their history, but will have to wait until the final round to lift the trophy.
Inter will play the final game of the season at home against Hellas Verona on the weekend of May 17. The exact date and kick-off time have yet to be confirmed, but the Nerazzurri will certainly lift the trophy after that match.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 19: Lautaro Martinez of FC Inter kisses the Serie A TIM Scudetto title trophy at full-time following the team’s draw in the Serie A TIM match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 19, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
As reported by several Italian media outlets, Inter’s title celebrations will likely include an open-top bus parade as well.
In the meantime, the Nerazzurri will also play the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio on May 13, so Chivu’s men might end up celebrating a domestic double in barely two weeks.
Inter star Alessandro Bastoni is expected to start against Parma, while Lautaro Martinez will go on the bench with the Nerazzurri needing just one point to win the 2025-26 Scudetto.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 BST) at the Stadio Meazza in Milan, San Siro.
Football Italia will be among the accredited media.
Inter must cope without Hakan Calhanoglu and Luis Henrique, but Lautaro Martinez has recovered from an injury and will go on the bench.
Bastoni’s fitness is also improving, so the Italian defender is expected to start in a three-man defence, according to Sky Sport, Gazzetta, and other reputable Italian media outlets.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan is favourite over Petar Sucic in central midfield.
Following Napoli’s 0-0 draw against Como on Saturday, a draw will be enough for Inter to win the Scudetto tonight with three games to spare.
Parma have travelled to Milan without the injured Frigan and Cremaschi.
Carlos Cuesta will look to his ideal XI with Adrian Bernabé in central midfield and Mateo Pellegrino in attack.
Inter vs. Parma – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast on TNT Sports 2, DAZN and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates with a liveblog from San Siro.
It kicks off at 18:00 CET (17:00 BST) at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.
The Bianconeri have a two-point lead over fifth-placed Como, but with a game in hand, while Verona were mathematically relegated on Friday following Lecce’s away victory at Pisa.
Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik are unavailable for Juventus, while Verona have once again dropped Gift Orban after the Nigeria international fought with a fan in the street last month.
Multiple sources, including Gazzetta and Sky Sport Italia, report that Juventus star Yildiz is fit to start, making his return to the Juventus line-up for the first time in three weeks.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus celebrates after scoring the his team’s third 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)
Bianconeri coach Luciano Spalletti will likely pick Jonathan David as a sole striker, with Francisco Conceiçao completing the Old Lady’s three-man attack.
Juventus are unbeaten in the last eight Serie A games, collecting five wins and three draws since the start of March.
Juventus vs. Verona – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
Milan star Christian Pulisic is expected to start on the bench, but the Rossoneri need a win against Sassuolo to boost their Champions League qualification hopes.
It kicks off at 15:00 CET (14:00 BST) at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia.
The Rossoneri sit third in the standings with a five-point lead over Como, who already played on Saturday, drawing 0-0 against Napoli. On the other hand, Sassuolo have already secured survival, having earned 46 points in 34 games.
Luka Modric is unavailable for Milan, and according to multiple sources, including Sky Sport Italia, the Croatian star will be replaced by Ardon Jashari in central midfield.
USMNT international Pulisic is expected to start on the bench, being replaced by Christopher Nkunku. Pulisic hasn’t yet scored a goal in 2026.
Italy international Domenico Berardi will return to Sassuolo’s starting XI after serving a two-game ban. Second-choice keeper Stefano Turati is expected to start the third game in a row, leaving Arijanet Muric on the bench.
Sassuolo vs. Milan – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN and TikTok in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
A driver living life always on the edge. The crash and his legs were amputated, then he won the gold medals at the Paralympic Games. The accident with a truck. He died on May 1, like Senna. All of Italy is moved.
Allegri: ‘The Champions League moves 100m.’ Spalletti, Yildiz right away.
Inter, Scudetto one point away.
Corriere dello Sport
Farewell giant
Alex lives
Zanardi has died: an extraordinary man who taught us to redraw our lives.
Born in Bologna, 59, the strength of ideals and smiles. The farewell on the same day as Senna’s. F1, kart, 16 surgeries, four Paralympic Gold medals in handbike, and the shocking crash with a truck. Matteralla moved: ‘A great pain.’
Tuttosport
Alex Zanardi (1966-2026)
Your lesson forever
The champion of the impossible died on the same day as his idol, Senna. Terrible Formula Car accident in 2001. The second life, the Paralympics triumphs, and the crash with a handbike in 2020. The biggest lesson: ‘When you can’t take it anymore, hold on, more opportunities will come.’
Inter: Scudetto Day amid controversy
Chivu to be crowned champion if he draws with Parma, but the Milanese investigation looms over the celebration.
The wiretap in which Rocchi allegedly mentioned the referee coordinator Schenone opens new scenarios. In the meantime, Napoli’s 0-0 against Como means a point will be enough tonight. For the first time since 1989, the title can be won at San Siro. Lautaro on the bench, Bastoni returns, but nothing organised…
‘Vlahovic? I think he wants to stay.’
The coach pushes to confirm the Serbian and enjoys Yildiz. ‘He has the sun in his face, he makes me feel lucky to coach.’ Kenan on the pitch today with Verona. Aston Villa on David.
Toro, nice way to honour the invincibles…
Ehizibue-Kristensen: easy 2-0. D’Aversa: ‘Wrong spirit, I got angry.’ And the fans protest.
This evening’s 1-0 victory over Alverca was enough to open up the nine-point gap at the top of the table, after Benfica were held to a 2-2 draw by Famalicao.
With only two rounds to go, it means they are impossible to catch and FC Porto can celebrate the title four years after their most recent success.
Benfica had won, followed by back-to-back Sporting successes, but this is FC Porto’s 31st victory.
First trophy for Farioli
Official: Farioli appointed head coach of FC Porto.
Farioli is an Italian coach who started out as a goalkeeping trainer and assistant manager, working closely with Roberto De Zerbi for Benevento and Sassuolo.
He branched out on his own in Turkish football with Fatih Karagumruk in 2021 and Alanyaspor, then had spells with OGC Nice and Ajax.
FC Porto hired him in July 2025 and he oversaw 38 victories, eight draws and five defeats in all competition this season, also reaching the Europa League quarter-finals.
This is the first trophy of Farioli’s coaching career and he celebrated his 37th birthday last month.
This is going to be the worst full Serie A season of Antonio Conte’s coaching career, as for the first time he will fail to reach 80 points after Napoli stumbled.
That means the maximum tally that Napoli could achieve at the end of the season is 79 points, a record low for the tactician.
Conte never earned fewer than 80 points
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The only time he ever managed fewer points was with Atalanta in 2009-10, but that was not a full campaign, as he was only on the bench for 13 matches.
His record remains 102 points with Juventus in the 2013-14 campaign, also getting 87 and 84 during his Bianconeri experience.
When at Inter, Conte had 82 points in 2019-20, then 91 to win the Scudetto in 2020-21.
Italy international and Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma jokingly announced he got married as if it was a transfer. ‘Long-term contract signed.’
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
He published photographs of them together in their wedding outfits surrounded by flowers, complete with the comment: ‘Long-term contract signed.’
The shot-stopper and his partner Alessia Elefante had been childhood sweethearts when going to school together in Castellammare di Stabia.
They have officially been together since 2016, when he was already playing for Milan and she moved to the city to join him, working as an interior designer.
Although this relationship has been solid for many years, and they were engaged since 2024 in Paris when he was playing for Paris Saint-Germain, they only tied the knot this week.
The couple also welcomed son Leo to the world in September 2024.
Atalanta had the best chances, rattling the woodwork with Giacomo Raspadori, but were unable to get more than a 0-0 draw, as Genoa are now mathematically safe.
La Dea were eager to get back on track after a dismal run of one point from three rounds, plus Coppa Italia semi-final elimination to Lazio. Lorenzo Bernasconi’s season was over after a knee ligament injury, but Gianluca Scamacca started with Nikola Krstovic after a brace in the 3-2 defeat to Cagliari. The Grifone were almost sure of Serie A safety, despite a loss to Como. Tommaso Baldanzi was still out, but Brooke Norton-Cuffy returned to the bench and Justin Bijlow shook off a muscular twinge.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Daniele De Rossi of Genoa FC and Raffaele Palladino of Atalanta BC looks on during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Genoa CFC at Gewiss Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Vitinha and Krstovic tested the goalkeepers early on, while Vitinha on the counter saw his attempt deflected over the bar from a Lorenzo Colombo counter-attack.
Ederson’s first touch let him down in a very promising position on the Davide Zappacosta pull-back, while Bijlow almost let the Charles De Ketelaere angled drive squirm under him after a give and go with Giorgio Scalvini.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta BC in action during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Genoa CFC at Gewiss Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Scalvini was decisive at the other end with a crucial block on Jeff Ekhator’s first-time strike, and Krstovic’s flick did not surprise Bijlow at the near post.
Atalanta really should’ve scored when Bijlow spilled a powerful Ederson effort from outside the box and Giacomo Raspadori only prodded the rebound straight at the goalkeeper.
Bijlow fingertipped a Krstovic attempt round the near post, but Raspadori came closest on 79 minutes when his fierce strike thumped the crossbar from the edge of the penalty area.
BERGAMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Ederson of Atalanta BC in action challenges for the ball with Vitinha of Genoa FC during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Genoa CFC at Gewiss Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Genoa had to play the final minutes practically down to 10 men, as Junior Messias suffered a thigh strain after all the substitutions had been completed.
Deep into stoppages, a corner was cleared as far as Ederson, whose right-foot curler skimmed the crossbar.
Antonio Conte insists Napoli put in ‘a good performance’ for the 0-0 draw with Como and took ‘another step forward’ towards Champions League qualification.
Just like back in November at the Stadio Maradona, the game ended 0-0 between these two teams, while Como emerged victorious on penalties in the Coppa Italia quarter-final after another stalemate.
The hosts had the best chances with Amir Rrahmani’s goal-line clearance denying Tasos Douvikas and a Vanja Milinkovic-Savic save on Martin Baturina, but late on Matteo Politano thumped the woodwork and Scott McTominay drilled wide on the counter-attack.
Conte pleased with Napoli stalemate
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“It was certainly a good performance, as without that you don’t emerge unscathed from a game where both Napoli and Como had a lot at stake. Como probably had more at stake with Champions League qualification,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“We were a little too timid in the first half and didn’t put the right pressure on. Let us not forget they have a goalkeeper who makes it very difficult, because with the slightest wrong movement, he can get away and then force you to sprint back to cover the space.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We improved in terms of quality after the restart, had chances to score goals, but there are three games to go. We made another step forward, not just for a Champions League place, but also to try and finish as high up the table as possible.
“The lads did well, we must congratulate them for the performance against a tough opponent.”
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There were some potential counter-attack situations for the Partenopei, but Kevin De Bruyne was substituted early and looked a little rusty.
“Como created some opportunities when we lost the ball, so we weren’t as clean in our passing, the central midfielders were too stretched out and not close enough to each other. The playmakers need to be more co-ordinated,” continued Conte.
“We lost the ball stupidly a couple of times and that created some tension. We improved a lot after the break, with two big scoring opportunities, but even in the first we had some situations with Hojlund where we could’ve made better choices.
“De Bruyne is in the same condition he was last week, not much has changed in seven days. He had done very well against Cremonese and scored a goal, but some games you can do better than others, he played his part today. I decided to bring on Anguissa and move McTominay into a more advanced role.”
This result means that Napoli feel more secure in second place, but Inter will be able to celebrate the Scudetto tomorrow evening with as little as a point against Parma at San Siro.
Cesc Fabregas cannot decide if he is proud or angry after Como’s 0-0 draw with Napoli, but reveals the advice he gave to Nico Paz about learning from Ousmane Dembele.
Fabregas continues to frustrate his former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, because they met three times this season and all of them were draws, with Como winning the penalty shoot-out in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.
His side had the best earlier chances today with Amir Rrahmani clearing a Tasos Douvikas effort off the line, but late on Matteo Politano was denied by the upright in a goalless stalemate.
Fabregas unsure of Como reaction
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Referee Michael Fabbri disputes with Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Was the coach more happy with the performance or irritated at the result today?
“It depends. In my head, considering who we were a year and a half ago, I can say I am very proud. But then we tried to win today, we didn’t manage it, so in that sense I am angry,” Fabregas told DAZN Italia.
“We tried to be very aggressive, to press Napoli, I saw the team I wanted to see, trying to win the game. Nico Paz, Da Cunha, Perrone were fighting it out in midfield against Lobotka, De Bruyne and McTominay, so that’s something I cannot forget either.”
The other meeting back in November 2025 also ended 0-0, but in that game Vanja Milinkovic-Savic had parried an Alvaro Morata penalty.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Assane Diao of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This result means that Como could be left further behind Juventus and Roma tomorrow in the race for the top four, as the Bianconeri could go five points clear.
“I sense the constant growth of my players, I am very demanding with them, and when I see performances against Sassuolo, Udinese, Parma, Fiorentina where they don’t give me what I want to see, I don’t forget those.
“Having said that, 95 per cent of the time, they do give me what I want to see. I know where they were a couple of years ago and how they are constantly stepping up, so as a coach it is not just about analysing victory or defeat, there are hours and hours of invisible work.
“In that sense, we should be happy that Como are challenging for important positions the year after returning to Serie A, having been out of the top flight for 21 years.”
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Nico Paz of Como 1907 competes for the ball with Alessandro Buongiorno of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nico Paz is widely expected to return to Real Madrid, who have a buy-back clause, but Fabregas seemed far from certain the Argentina international would leave Como this summer.
“Are you so sure? This is not the moment to talk about the future. We are building something here, we’ve seen so much progress and want to keep working together.”
It was noted that Nico Paz showed improvement in his work rate today, tracking back to help the defence.
“In modern football, it is total football, you must be able to do everything,” noted Fabregas.
“I had the opportunity to be in Paris the other day for the Champions League semi-final and I saw that Dembele was man-marking Pavlovic, a Ballon d’Or player was doing that. If a Ballon d’Or can do that, so can everyone.
“I think this style of football can be adapted to my squad and what we want to do with a very young squad.”
That incredible game saw PSG beat Bayern Munich 5-4, so have Como also picked up some tricks like kicking the ball straight into touch to start building from the back?
“If you’ve been following Como, you will know we’ve done that before, even if it is a little different,” smiled Fabregas.
“You want to create a situation where they can be forced into errors. We don’t do it exactly like them, but we might do in future.”
There was the opportunity going into the Week 35 fixtures that they could pop the champagne corks while watching the other games.
They needed Napoli to suffer a defeat to Como at the Stadio Sinigaglia, and for Sassuolo to be unbeaten against Milan on Sunday afternoon.
Inter Scudetto scenario has changed
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano looks on during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, it does change the situation in that now Inter can clinch the Scudetto with as little as a draw against Parma at San Siro on Sunday evening.
The Nerazzurri are currently nine points clear at the top of the table, so going up to 10 points with only three rounds left to play would put them beyond reach.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: SSC Napoli coach Antonio Conte looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This was joint fifth against second with the race for a Champions League spot still open. Nico Paz, Mergim Vojvoda and Sergi Roberto shook off knocks, leaving only Jayden Addai on the treatment table. Giovanni Di Lorenzo was back on the bench for the first time three months after a knee injury, with Mathias Olivera, Juan Jesus, David Neres, Antonio Vergara and Romelu Lukaku still out of action. Cesc Fabregas and his former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte were reunited on the touchline, after knocking Napoli out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final on penalties.
Tasos Douvikas should’ve scored after eight minutes when springing the offside trap on a Nico Paz pass and dribbling around Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, but the goalkeeper managed to slow him down enough to allow Amir Rrahmani to get back for the decisive goal-line clearance.
Martin Baturina bent his finish wide of the far post, while Milinkovic-Savic rushed off his line to deny Assane Diao when sent through by a smart Nico Paz counter-attack.
A Nico Paz free kick also went over the bar, then Jacobo Ramon just failed to connect from four yards on a flicked-on corner.
After the restart, Rasmus Hojlund’s penalty appeals were rejected as he was offside anyway, and Diao failed to keep his header down at the back post.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Assane Diao of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milinkovic-Savic was almost wrong-footed by a deflection on Baturina’s half-turn, but managed to scramble across for the one-handed save.
Scott McTominay had a great chance on 79 minutes when sprinting onto the pass from the left, but he drilled the finish just wide of the near post with only Jean Butez to beat.
COMO, ITALY – MAY 02: Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 competes for the ball with Alisson Santos of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Matteo Politano tackled Jesus Rodriguez inside the penalty area cleanly and then went on the counter, moments later his left-foot curler from outside the box smacking against the far post for Napoli.
Just like earlier this season in Serie A at the Stadio Maradona, it ended goalless.
Manuel Akanji is set to make his move to Inter permanent, with the Nerazzurri ready to secure the defender on a two-year deal following a successful loan spell from Manchester City.
The centre-back has been a key figure under Cristian Chivu this season, quickly establishing himself as a regular starter and playing a central role in Inter’s march towards the Serie A title. His consistency has already satisfied one of the key conditions required to trigger a permanent transfer.
As part of the agreement struck last September, Inter committed to signing Akanji outright if two clauses were met: the defender reaching at least 50% of the club’s appearances across the season, and the team securing the Scudetto. The first target has long been achieved, while the second is now within touching distance.
LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Manuel Akanji of Inter celebrates his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Akanji part of Inter summer overhaul as veteran defenders set to leave
The deal is expected to cost around €15m, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport, with Akanji’s contract automatically extending through to 2028 once the conditions are fulfilled. Speaking earlier in the season, the Swiss international admitted: “I can’t know what will happen in the summer, but I can say I’m very happy here.”
Inter’s move to secure Akanji comes amid a wider defensive overhaul. Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij are both approaching the end of their contracts, while Matteo Darmian and Yann Sommer are also facing uncertain futures.
There is also growing expectation that Alessandro Bastoni could depart, increasing the importance of retaining a reliable and experienced figure like Akanji. Alongside Yann Bisseck, he is now seen as a cornerstone of Inter’s evolving back line as the club prepares for its next cycle.
Riccardo Calafiori has returned to the starting XI for Arsenal against Fulham, marking his comeback after a recent injury absence as Mikel Arteta rotates his side.
The Italy international had been expected to feature against Newcastle but was ultimately left out of the matchday squad, despite nearing full fitness. Arteta was forced into selection decisions due to squad limitations, with Calafiori among those to miss out.
“Because these guys have been exceptional, I understand that,” Arteta explained. “We had to leave two players out of the squad at the end… there were Christian and Richi [Calafiori], so that’s going to happen.”
He added: “If the Premier League allows us to have 20 or 22 players, we can have everybody involved and hopefully next season that will be the case.”
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy looks on during 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)
Calafiori return a welcome boost for Arsenal
Calafiori’s return now offers a timely boost, particularly with Arsenal balancing domestic commitments and their upcoming Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. Arteta has made several changes from the side that started in Madrid, but the inclusion of the former Roma defender is the standout.
Prior to the match, speaking to Sky Sport, Arteta revealed the importance of
Arsenal continue to chase the Premier League title, though their focus is inevitably split given the importance of their European campaign. Calafiori’s presence at left-back adds defensive stability and tactical flexibility, especially alongside a settled back line featuring William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
His return will be closely monitored, but it represents a positive step as Arsenal head into a decisive period of the season.
Cesc Fabregas insists ‘football is constantly evolving and you need to keep up with it’ as his Como host Antonio Conte’s Napoli. ‘Losing or drawing is the same thing, we must go for victory.’
There are only eight points separating these teams going into the weekend, so with Como and Roma in joint fifth place and Napoli in second, the race for a Champions League spot is still open.
Fabregas not holding Como back
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 26: Cesc Fabregas, head coach of Como, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Como 1907 at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“We feel calm, because we are a very young team, you can see in the eyes of the players that this is an important stage of the season, and we want to keep taking steps forward,” Fabregas told DAZN Italia.
“This is a big game against a team that is very, very strong.”
Fabregas played under Conte at Chelsea for two years, and therefore knows his tactics very well.
Having tried to reshuffle his system a few times in recent weeks with three or four at the back, has he prepared anything special for facing Napoli?
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (L) greets player Cesc Fabregas (R) at the end of the English Premier League soccer match Chelsea vs Swansea at Stamford Bridge, London, Britain, 25 February 2017. EPA/WILL OLIVER EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications
“It’s just about going for the victory, so we need to press high, have the right mentality. Losing or drawing is the same thing at this stage of the season, so we must go for the victory and to score goals.”
Nico Paz, Mergim Vojvoda and Sergi Roberto have shaken off knocks, so the only remaining absentee for the hosts is long-term injury case Jayden Addai.
The Argentina international had been taken to hospital for checks after the 2-0 win away to Genoa, as he was having trouble with his vision following a clash of heads.
“I am very happy with Nico Paz, he has always scored lots of goals, but the improvement was in his interpretation, his movement. He has a big margin for further improvement, but has done better in his posture, gathering the ball and turning when pressed.
“He already scored I think 15 goals in all competition this season, so that’s a good tally and hopefully he can add more in the last few games.”
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 15: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas celebrates the victory at the end of the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AS Roma at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on March 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Conte said in his pre-match interview that Fabregas is a fine coach because he is always ‘studying’ the game, and this is something the Spaniard acknowledges.
“I used to study as a player, so I try to do it as a coach, because I see no other way. I don’t create my own ideas, I go around seeing other methods, the way others train and work, then I try to adapt those ideas to our football,” replied Fabregas.
“Studying football is essential, because what works today probably won’t work in two weeks. I was looking at some pressing movements we did in Serie B just two years ago, I wouldn’t do that now. Football is constantly evolving and you need to keep up with it.”
Antonio Conte says his former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas was ‘destined for greatness’ as a coach at Como, warning Napoli will engage in ‘an open game.’
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, argues with referee Giovanni Ayroldi during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli were knocked out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final by Como in a penalty shoot-out in February, and haven’t beaten them since a 3-1 home result in October 2024.
It is also a reunion with Conte’s former Chelsea midfielder Fabregas, who is now flourishing on the touchline.
Conte impressed with Fabregas career path
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Neither of the two teams will certainly try to play for the draw, so I expect an open game,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“I am happy for Cesc, because he was always destined for greatness, and was fortunate during his career to play for teams like Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea, working for top coaches over the years. He is a great coach because he studies carefully.
“Como are improving decisively year on year, causing real problems for the big clubs in Serie A, and will certainly keep growing.”
The Scudetto dream has sailed, as if Napoli lose here and Milan fail to get the better of Sassuolo tomorrow, then Inter will be mathematically crowned Champions of Italy without setting foot on the pitch.
Their focus now has to be on locking down second place, because Como are just eight points behind them in joint fifth with Roma, but a victory here would mathematically lock down Champions League qualification.
“We try to press high, create problems for our opponents, and Como are similar. These are two super organised teams who try to be pro-active and not passive, so both will try to take the initiative.”
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 24: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Cremonese at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Giovanni Di Lorenzo returns to the squad for the first time since a knee ligament injury three months ago, so only David Neres, Antonio Vergara and Romelu Lukaku are still out of action.
“Di Lorenzo had around 200 consecutive games, so he is a fundamental figure for us, both for his leadership, but also the attitude he brings on and off the field. He needs time to recover after so many months on the shelf, he only just started training with us this week, so it will take patience to get him back to full fitness,” concluded Conte.
Nico Paz and Martin Baturina start for high-flying Como, as fifth welcome second-placed Napoli with Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne and Rasmus Hojlund.
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Scudetto could be assigned tomorrow, but meanwhile the Champions League places were not locked down, as Como and Roma were in joint fifth, just three points behind Juventus.
This is a special reunion for Fabregas and his former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.
Jayden Addai is the only remaining absentee for Fabregas, because Sergi Roberto, Mergim Vojvoda and Nico Paz all shake off knocks after their 2-0 victory away to Genoa.
Tasos Douvikas leads the attack rather than Alvaro Morata, with support from Nico Paz, Baturina and Assane Diao.
Lucas Da Cunha and Maximo Perrone pull the midfield strings, as they try to keep European ambitions alive.
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Napoli saw the dream of retaining their Scudetto disappear after a draw at Parma and defeat to Lazio, but kept hold of second place with their 4-0 thrashing of Cremonese.
Giovanni Di Lorenzo is back on the bench for the first time, three months after a knee ligament injury, meaning only David Neres, Antonio Vergara and Romelu Lukaku are still out of action.
McTominay, Stanislav Lobotka and Matteo Politano are in midfield, with De Bruyne and Alisson Santos supporting Hojlund.
The only change from the side that beat Cremonese is Sam Beukema replacing Matias Olivera in defence.
Napoli were knocked out of the Coppa Italia quarter-final by Como in a penalty shoot-out in February, and haven’t beaten them since a 3-1 home result in October 2024.
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 24: Kevin De Bruyne of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Cremonese at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Como vs. Napoli line-ups
Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Da Cunha, Perrone; Diao, Paz, Baturina; Douvikas
Napoli cannot celebrate the sale of Jens Cajuste yet, as Fabrizio Romano reports promotion isn’t enough to activate the Ipswich Town €7.5m option to buy.
It had been reported that this included a clause making the purchase an obligation in case of promotion to the Premier League.
So with the Tractor Boys stepping up to the top flight this weekend, Napoli had hoped to cash in on Cajuste.
Napoli must wait for Cajuste cash
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Jens Cajuste of Ipswich Town during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Ipswich Town FC at Old Trafford on February 26, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
However, transfer pundit Romano warns the clause in question also includes the requirement that he play in 50 per cent of their games, and he hasn’t achieved that target yet.
The Sweden international has featured in 31 games between the Championship and FA Cup this season, contributing one goal and four assists.
Napoli paid €11.5m to sign Cajuste from Stade Reims in the summer of 2023, but he never made an impact, going on two different loans to Ipswich Town in August 2024 and again in August 2025.
Those loans brought in circa €2.7m in fees to the Partenopei club coffers.
The Friulani had a lengthy absentee list including Keinan Davis, Jesper Karlstrom, Jordan Zemura, Alessandro Zanoli and Nicolò Bertola after a 3-3 thriller at Lazio. Toro were also decimated, missing Duvan Zapata, Che Adams, Marcus Pedersen, Tino Anjorin, Zakaria Aboukhlal and Ardian Ismajli after their comeback from 2-0 down to hold leaders Inter 2-2.
Udinese wore a special jersey commemorating the 50th anniversary of the devastating earthquake in the region that killed over 1,000 and there was a fanfare before kick-off. There was also a minute’s silence before all games this weekend for Formula 1 and Paralympic legend Alex Zanardi.
Giovanni Simeone was denied from point-blank range by Maduka Okoye in the opening minutes when meeting the Valentino Lazaro cross, while Gvidas Gineitis got the finish wrong on a corner kick routine.
The first chance for the hosts saw Christian Kabasele’s finish from a free kick deflected wide, and Udinese scored in chaotic fashion.
Adam Buksa robbed Gineitis, then Nicolò Zaniolo was blocked off by Alberto Paleari, so Buksa fired onto the upright of an open goal, before Zaniolo turned in the rebound. However, it didn’t count because Zaniolo was offside.
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 02: Nicolo Zaniolò of Udinese interacts with referee Giuseppe Mucera after scoring a goal which is then ruled out for offside during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Torino FC at Stadio Friuli on May 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Zaniolo ran onto a through ball and cut inside, his strike deflected off Saul Coco to prevent a certain goal, and an Oumar Solet glancing header smothered.
Udinese did eventually get their goal in first half stoppages and it was again far from a clean move. Coco made a mistake on a throw-in and was robbed by Solet, it was rolled across from the left by Jurgen Ekkelenkamp, where Rafa Obrador risked an own goal, so Kingsley Ehizibue was ready right behind him to prod over the line.
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 02: Kingsley Ehizibue of Udinese (#19) celebrates scoring his team’s first goal in front of fans during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Torino FC at Stadio Friuli on May 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The second goal was more orthodox, as Thomas Kristensen was allowed a free glancing header on a Lennon Miller corner from six yards.
Torino struggled to create any real chances in a disappointing second half performance, but Zaniolo was even more frustrated with a continuing goal drought, as he ran from his own half only to see a shot charged down, then had penalty appeals rejected and fired another effort straight at Paleari.
Luciano Spalletti warns Juventus must not ‘make calculations’ for a top four finish, gives a Kenan Yildiz update, and admits he was ‘not happy’ with the 0-0 at Milan.
It kicks off with already relegated Verona at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).
There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off in every Serie A match this weekend for Alex Zanardi, the legendary former Formula 1 driver who lost both legs in a crash, then became a champion Paralympian, who died this morning at age 59.
“I wanted to start by remembering a truly unique man for his values, both in life and in sport, like Alex Zanardi. I was fortunate enough to know him and what he passed on to others was indescribable,” said Spalletti at the start of his press conference.
Spalletti wants Juventus to keep pushing
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Genoa CFC at Allianz Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have opened up a three-point lead over Como and Roma in fourth place, but the Champions League qualification is still far from secure.
“When I hear people talk about fourth place, I hear certain calculations, but you don’t get there with calculations, you do it by maintaining a certain consistency,” warned Spalletti.
“We must focus on the Champions League and not on fourth place. We know full well what we did to get back into the top four, but there is a difference between needing to prove something and needing to defend something.”
Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik are out for the season, with Dusan Vlahovic back on the bench, but the big question mark is around Kenan Yildiz.
“We all know how important Yildiz is for us, so we have to evaluate the bigger picture for his health. He had this little inflammation, his last two training sessions went very well and he felt no pain. We have no doubts on his presence in tomorrow’s game.
“Vlahovic is the same situation, he can give us a big hand in the remaining matches this season and we don’t have someone else with his characteristics.
“Yildiz always has this positivity, a sunny disposition, even when he had difficult moments. He is already looking to the future, I met his splendid family, his teammates love him too. I feel fortunate to be training him.”
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Spalletti was pushed on some other subjects, including that epic Paris Saint-Germain 5-4 Bayern Munich Champions League semi-final, which felt like a different sport to Juve’s dismal 0-0 draw with Milan.
“The Champions League is not a tournament that rewards security, but rather those who shake things up. In our football, we tend to like staying in control, but the Champions League relishes chaos, pace and being unpredictable,” replied the coach.
“This is where modern football is heading, and we must adapt. Look, I was not happy with the performance at San Siro either, because it reduced us a little bit, we started playing the game they wanted us to.
“We brought home a result, but didn’t make an impact, and that left me with bellyache the next day. I told the team that too.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Spalletti did take the opportunity to aim a little sideswipe at rivals Inter when discussing Juve’s Champions League record.
“We had some good results in that tournament, we won away to Bodo/Glimt, where some people ought to rewrite their articles about our game, seeing as they were a little presumptuous…”
So how could Italian football be forced into these changes and adapt to the modern game?
“I think teams should be obliged to start at least one under-21 player, it would be a shock to the Calcio system.”
Claudio Ranieri looks back a decade on from the iconic Leicester City Premier League victory, as the Foxes drop into the third tier. ‘I tweaked things, and from there a legend was born.’
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Jamie Vardy of Leicester City during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Leicester City FC at Molineux on April 26, 2025 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
It is a decade on since Ranieri made football history by winning the Premier League title with minnows Leicester City, leaving behind clubs with far bigger budgets and glorious trophy cabinets.
As a sign of quite what a sporting miracle that was, Leicester City will play in League One next season, the English equivalent of Serie C, after back-to-back relegations.
To commemorate the anniversary, Ranieri sat down with singer-songwriter Sayf, who made headlines when saying his unexpected hit made him feel like Leicester City.
Ranieri remembers Leicester City success
ROME, ITALY – MAY 04: Claudio Ranieri, Head Coach of AS Roma looks on prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on May 04, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“There was an incredible positive energy behind the team at that time, but I was only convinced that I would win the Premier League when I actually won the Premier League,” Ranieri told Sky Sport Italia.
“This was considered a yo-yo team, they’d go up and down the divisions, and have just now dropped into the English third tier. When the President hired me, he asked to get 40 points and secure safety from relegation as early as possible. From there, a legend was born.
“I arrived, the team was in a training retreat because they’d sacked the coach, I had two days to prepare watching games from previous seasons. I changed a few things, as they were accustomed to a different system, saw some players who I felt it was right to change, and then the team really started to push.”
When asked if there was a moment or game when he saw the situation change, Ranieri insisted there wasn’t a specific turning point in that remarkable season.
“I started tweaking things because we conceded too many goals. I changed the two wide defenders, and from there the team conceded fewer goals.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Claudio Ranieri, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter Final match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Another potential moment was a series of three games against Manchester City away, Liverpool at home, and Arsenal away, before the break for international duty.
“Jamie Vardy said to me: ‘Mister, shall we get nine points?’ I replied that if they picked up nine points, I’d give them the whole week off for a vacation. We won 3-1 in Manchester, we beat Liverpool, were 1-0 up over Arsenal until going down to 10 men and losing at the 93rd minute.
“Everyone was so sad in the dressing room, so I told them: ‘I always asked you for the maximum in every game. We lost today, but you gave your best, so in my mind you earned three points. So you can have the whole week off.’ That might’ve been another building block in the victory.”
Ranieri also famously did the ‘dilly-ding dilly-dong’ gesture in training, his version of ringing a bell as a wake-up call to his Leicester City players.
“In all my experiences, I tried to keep everyone involved with a smile,” said the coach.
The FIGC has confirmed that there will be a minute’s silence before every Serie A match in the 35th round of fixtures in tribute to the late Alex Zanardi, who has died at the age of 59.
Serie A will remember Zanardi before every Week 35 match
“It is with deep sorrow that the family communicates the death of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, May 1st,” read a statement from his family on Saturday morning.
“Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the affection of his loved ones. The family sincerely thanks all those who are showing closeness in these hours and asks for respect for their pain and privacy in this moment of mourning”.
Zanardi was an icon of Italian paralympic sport. A former motor sports driver who competed in Formula One between 1991 and 1994 and again in 1999, he had both legs amputated after a serious crash during a CART event in 2001.
Zanardi miraculously recovered and continued racing in specially-adapted cars across various different race formats, before turning his focus to hand cycling.
CERVIA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Alex Zanardi of Italy heads for the finish line on IRONMAN 70.3 Emilia Romagna on September 22, 2019 in Cervia, Italy. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images for IRONMAN)
He would go on to win four gold medals and two silvers between the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games in London and Rio de Janeiro.
He was sadly involved in another major accident in 2020 while competing in the Obiettivo tricolore, the Italian national road race for paralympic athletes. This accident left him hospitalised for 18 months and with life-altering injuries.
Zanardi died on Friday, May 1, at the age of 59.
Many Serie A clubs and coaches have paid their respects to the late Zanardi on social media and in their pre-match press conferences on Saturday.
Massimiliano Allegri insists that he is not concerned by Christian Pulisic’s lack of goals in 2026, has confirmed the players that are in line to replace the injured Luka Modric, but avoided commenting on the topic of a potential sale of Rafael Leao this summer.
The Rossoneri tactician sat down for his customary pre-match press conference on Saturday ahead of his side’s upcoming test against Sassuolo on Saturday.
Allegri previews Sassuolo vs. Milan
Allegri began his press conference with a word of remembrance for former Formula One driver-turned Paralympian Alex Zanardi, who has died at the age of 59: “It’s right to remember Zanardi, an example in life, an example of human and sporting values. He put professionalism and passion into sport. My condolences to his family. He has amazing values.”
The topic of discussion soon reverted to the task at hand in Serie A. One of the biggest conundrums facing Allegri is how to place Luka Modric, who will miss the remainder of the season after fracturing his cheekbone against Juventus last weekend.
“We’re very sorry about this bad injury, which will keep him out until the end of the season, even if he has a big desire to come back,” Allegri commented.
“He shows so much passion for the work he does and I hope this has been a lesson for the other players. We have great players to replace him, either Jashari or Ricci, who have grown a lot and in whom I have a lot of confidence.
“Jashari has grown a lot. Unfortunately he had a bad injury at the beginning of the season which kept him out for a long time. He has desire, he’s curious, he has his whole future ahead of him and I think Milan made an excellent signing.”
Allegri confirmed that he has recently sat down with Milan’s senior management, but insisted: “It’s normal. Evaluations aren’t just made about the future, but also on how the season has gone so far, even if the final evaluation will be made at the end of the season.
“We’ve created a base, but we need to get into the Champions League.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 21: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, 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)
Allegri was also asked for his opinion on the continuing refereeing scandal in Serie A: “I haven’t made up my mind, these are delicate subjects. The relevant bodies will evaluate. After everything that’s happened, the last round was a positive for the referees. They did a good job and psychologically it wasn’t easy.”
All season, Allegri has insisted that returning to the Champions League is Milan’s only focus. They are closing in on qualification, and with Inter set to win the Scudetto, potentially by the end of the weekend, is a second-place finish now the target for the Rossoneri?
“We have to do our best,” said Allegri. “We have a difficult game tomorrow because Sassuolo have good technical ability and can score goals at any time. They have good players and a good coach.
“Grosso is the revelation of this Serie A season because he’s grown a lot. Despite the difficulties of the early stages of his career, he’s made big steps forwards. Tomorrow is the first of the last four, we have to face it with calmness because we can’t let the goal slip away.”
Allegri was also asked if there is any possibility that Rafael Leao leaves the club during the summer transfer window.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He replied: “Talking about the market now makes no sense. One step at a time. We want to return to playing in the Champions League and the whole group has to be focused on that. Then, at the end of the season, we will all make evaluations to see if we can improve the work we’ve done this year.”
Allegri also commented on summer signing Christopher Nkunku: “He has great technical qualities. He’s had difficulties, but he’s scored goals. Maybe from tomorrow the strikers will start scoring again. We don’t discuss the (financial) value of the player. There are different factors that can make him do well one year and not in another.”
Santiago Gimenez has recently returned from injury but has found it difficult to break into the side since then.
“He’s a player who arrived last year, then had the immediate ankle problem. He’s an important player. Unfortunately the injury has kept him out for four or five months this year, and returning at the end of the season isn’t easy, especially for the tempo. He’s committed, he’s a valuable player despite this bad year.”
Christian Pulisic has not struggled for opportunities, but remains without a goal in 2026.
“Pulisic is an important player for Milan and it’s difficult to find players as good as him,” Allegri insisted. “You don’t have to look at whether or not the players do well or don’t do well in a certain year, there are some values that don’t change.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan reacts after seeing his team concede a third goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“He’s been missing that goal in recent games, but he’s been active. Right now, you have to put personal goals to one side and work for the team because our final target is too important. Those who play, those who come on, have to have an excellent attitude because that’s how we get the result, as well as doing well in defence and attack.”
Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed that it will be a choice of either Ardon Jashari or Samuele Ricci to replace the injured Luka Modric for the final four matches of the 2025-26 Serie A season: ‘I have a lot of confidence’.
Allegri comments on potential Modric replacements: ‘We have great players’
Milan will visit Sassuolo on Sunday afternoon in the 35th round of Serie A fixtures, but will have to do without former Ballon d’Or winner Modric against the Neroverdi. The 40-year-old is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign after suffering a fractured cheekbone while challenging for a header against Manuel Locatelli during the 0-0 draw between Milan and Juventus last weekend.
It is a blow for the Rossoneri, who have been able to field the veteran midfielder in all but one of their Serie A matches so far this season. Modric has started in 32 of Milan’s 34 league matches so far this season.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Saturday, Allegri confirmed that it will be a choice between one of two players to replace Modric against Sassuolo on Sunday.
“We’re very sorry about this bad injury, which will keep him out until the end of the season, even if he has a big desire to come back,” Allegri commented.
“He shows so much passion for the work he does and I hope this has been a lesson for the other players. We have great players to replace him, either Jashari or Ricci, who have grown a lot and in whom I have a lot of confidence.”
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Ardon Jashari of AC Milan in action during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Jashari was one of the division’s most expensive signings during the summer transfer window, but has struggled to establish himself in San Siro, especially following the injury he suffered almost immediately after signing from Club Brugge.
This is not a major concern for Allegri, though: “Jashari has grown a lot. Unfortunately he had a bad injury at the beginning of the season which kept him out for a long time. He has desire, he’s curious, he has his whole future ahead of him and I think Milan made an excellent signing.”
Kosta Runjaic and Roberto D’Aversa have made two changes each to their starting line-ups as Udinese host Torino in the first Serie A match on Saturday’s schedule.
Just three points separate the two sides ahead of kick-off on Saturday afternoon. Udinese sit in 11th place on 44 points while Torino find themselves two positions in 13th on 41 points heading into the final four games of the season.
Hosts Udinese are looking to get back to winning ways after a 3-3 draw and a 1-0 defeat against Parma over their last two matches.
Torino are four matches unbeaten heading into Saturday’s clash against Udinese, most recently holding Champions-elect Inter to a 2-2 draw last weekend. Only the Nerazzurri and Juventus have been in better form than Toro over the last four league matches.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Giovanni Simeone celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on April 26, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Kosta Runjaic has made just two changes to his Udinese line-up after last week’s draw with Lazio: Lennon Miller and Adam Buksa are called into the starting XI in place of Jakub Piotrowski and Idrissa Gueye.
Torino have also made two personnel changes after their draw with Inter last time out: Napoli loanee Luca Marianucci replaces Ardian Ismajli at centre-back and Cesare Casadei returns to the starting XI with Che Adams missing out.
Reports in Italy claim that Juventus are hopeful of landing a deal for Germany international Angelo Stiller and that the Bianconeri hope to take advantage of a complicated release clause in the midfielder’s contract with VfB Stuttgart.
Could Juventus move for Stuttgart’s Stiller this summer?
Juventus are expected to strengthen Luciano Spalletti’s squad over the summer transfer window with the aim of competing for the Serie A title next season, and their midfield department, which is currently short in depth, is an area that will be addressed.
According to Tuttosport, Stuttgart’s Stiller has been identified as a ‘favourite’ among the Bianconeri management, and Saturday’s report claims that a meeting with the player’s agent has been lined up.
The 25-year-old Stiller, a product of the Bayern Munich youth academy, has a release clause in his Stuttgart contract reported to stand at €36.5m, a figure that is not out of Juventus’s reach.
However, according to Saturday’s report, Stuttgart are able to revoke that release clause by paying Stiller a €2m bonus, which Tuttosport claims is a likely scenario.
STUTTGART, GERMANY – APRIL 12: Angelo Stiller of VfB Stuttgart celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Bundesliga match between VfB Stuttgart and Hamburger SV at MHPArena on April 12, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)
This would complicate proceedings for Juventus, but it would not put them off entirely according to Saturday’s report. It has been suggested that Stuttgart could seek a fee in the region of €50m for Stiller if the release clause is no longer in play, and Juve could be prepared to negotiate.
Real Madrid and Manchester United have also expressed an interest in picking up the seven-time Germany international.
Reports in Italy suggest that Milan could circle back for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta during the summer transfer window after his agent was spotted in San Siro for the recent 0-0 Serie A draw between the Rossoneri and Juventus.
It was reported at the time that there was an underlying issue with Mateta’s knee, and it was later confirmed that several different experts had weighed in with their opinions before the deal fell through.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace runs for the ball during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Crystal Palace FC and AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park on November 06, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Mateta ultimately decided against having surgery on his knee; Glasner revealing that this was his best option if he is to be fit and available for selection for the 2026 World Cup this summer.
After missing around six weeks of action while rehabbing his knee, Mateta has since returned and provided three goals and an assist from his nine most-recent appearances across all competitions.
Could Milan return for Mateta this summer?
Now, according to reports from Calciomercato.com, Milan could potentially circle back for Mateta this summer.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 09: Marin Pongracic of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 Quarter-Final Leg One match between Crystal Palace FC and ACF Fiorentina at Selhurst Park on April 09, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
This suggestion has been fuelled by the sighting of Mateta’s agent, Paul Latouche, in San Siro for last weekend’s 0-0 draw between Milan and Juventus in Serie A.
Saturday’s report suggests that Milan could potentially negotiate a discounted fee with Crystal Palace this summer as well, given that Mateta is currently due to be entering the final year of his Eagles contract when the window opens.
The 2025-26 Serie A season is beginning to draw to a close and teams are already beginning to plan their next steps ahead of opening of the transfer window, but it could be another complicated summer for Juventus and Aston Villa loanee Douglas Luiz according to the latest reports.
Juventus may struggle to find a Douglas Luiz solution this summer
Douglas Luiz joined Juventus in a €50m deal from Aston Villa at the beginning of the 2024-25 season, but went on to have a disappointing start to life in Serie A with just starts in the league during his first campaign in Italy.
In the end, Forest did not trigger the obligation to buy clause in the Brazilian’s contract, and instead agreed to terminate his deal ahead of schedule, which facilitated a return to his former club, Aston Villa, during the January transfer window.
The Aston Villa loan deal included an option to buy for a fee of €25m with bonuses of up to €3.5m, however, according to the latest reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Villa have already decided that they are unwilling to trigger their option to buy.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 21: Douglas Luiz of Villa in action during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Villa Park on February 21, 2026 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Though he made six consecutive starts in the Premier League after rejoining Aston Villa in January, Douglas Luiz has not been included in the starting XI for the last five league fixtures, nor has he started in any of the club’s last three outings in the Europa League. Since mid-March, the 27-year-old has only played for a total of 80 minutes.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus need to raise around €30m from Douglas Luiz if they are to avoid making a capital loss. But given that he has now endured underwhelming stints with three different clubs over the last 18 months, the Pink Paper writes that Douglas Luiz will become ‘a big problem’ for the Bianconeri this summer: “Finding a club willing to relaunch him will not be easy at all.”
Though they are not due to play until Sunday evening, Hellas Verona’s relegation from Serie A has been mathematically confirmed following Lecce’s 2-1 victory away against Pisa on Friday night.
PISA, ITALY – MAY 1: Isak Vural of Pisa Sporting Club in action against Oumar Ngom of US Lecce during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Lecce at Arena Garibaldi on May 1, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Two sides were officially relegated on Friday evening: 20th-placed Pisa were defeated at home by the 17th-placed Lecce, which means that they are now 14 points deep into the relegation zone with just three games of the season left to play and are no longer able to reach safety.
Verona, who will play against Juventus on Sunday, are only one point better off than Pisa on 19 points after 34 matches. They are 13 points deep into the relegation zone with four matches left to play, which confirms that they will also finish the 2025-26 season in the bottom three.
PISA, ITALY – OCTOBER 18: M’Bala Nzola of Pisa Sporting Club battles for the ball with Nicolas Valentini of Hellas Verona during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Hellas Verona FC at Arena Garibaldi on October 18, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It has been a disappointing season for Verona, who have only picked up three wins in the league all season; their first coming at home against Atalanta on December 6. This led to the dismissal of Paolo Zanetti as head coach on February 2, who was replaced by interim Paolo Sammarco the following day.
Verona will now return to the second tier of Italian football for the first time since the 2018-19 season, when they finished the Serie B campaign in fifth place, gaining promotion through the play-offs.
Raffaele Palladino and Atalanta are looking to get back to winning ways with a visit from Daniele De Rossi and Genoa, who will be aiming to confirm mathematical safety in Serie A on Saturday evening.
Atalanta have been on a disappointing run of form in February and are without a victory across their last four matches in all competitions. They find themselves in seventh place in the Serie A table, and could end up needing a favour from Inter in the Coppa Italia final in order to qualify for next season’s Conference League.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – APRIL 27: Coach of Atalanta Raffaele Palladino looks on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Atalanta BC at Stadio Sant’Elia on April 27, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Genoa come into Saturday evening’s fixture in 14th place, 11 points clear of the relegation zone with four league matches of the 2025-26 season left to play. A victory against Atalanta will guarantee their Serie A status for another season, but they will also ensure safety as long as Cremonese do not beat Lazio on Monday evening.
Despite the 3-2 defeat against Cagliari on Monday night, Palladino is unlikely to make any changes to his attacking unit of Giacomo Raspadori, Charles De Ketelaere and Gianluca Scamacca.
There could be changes in defence and midfield, though, as Sky Sport Italia suggest that Isak Hien, Honest Ahanor and Marten De Roon could come in for Berat Djimsiti, Sead Kolasinac and Mario Pasalic.
Genoa were beaten 2-0 by Como last weekend and could also be in line for a tactical reshuffle. Pre-match reports suggest that it could be a switch from a 4-4-2 to a 3-5-2 this weekend, and that Lorenzo Colombo could come back into the starting line-up to partner Jeff Ekhator in attack.
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Ruslan Malinovskyi of Genoa (left) celebrates with his team-mate Lorenzo Colombo after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Sky Sport Italia claims that there could be a full senior debut for 21-year-old Genoa defender Nils Zatterstrom.
Kick-off is due at 19.45 BST.
Atalanta vs. Genoa: Probable line-ups
GENOA, ITALY – APRIL 26: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and Como 1907 at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Hien, Ahanor; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; De Ketelaere, Raspadori; Scamacca.
Cesc Fabregas reunites with his former boss Antonio Conte as second-placed Napoli host the Champions League-chasing Como in a game that could have huge implications on the race for the Serie A top four on Saturday evening.
Como come into tonight’s fixture on 61 points after 34 matches, three shy of Juventus in the coveted fourth place heading into the final four games of the 2025-26 season. They host Napoli, second on 69 points, who are closing in on Champions League qualification, but could see title rivals Inter go on to win the Scudetto by the end of this weekend.
Nico Paz is expected to start despite being taken off after a nasty clash of heads last time out. He is likely to be joined by Assane Diao, Martin Baturina and Tasos Douvikas in the Como attack.
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 24: Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and US Cremonese at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 24, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Sam Beukema could come back into the defence along with Amir Rrahmani and Alessandro Buongiorno, but Napoli’s midfield and attack of Stanislav Lobotka, Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, Alisson Santos and Rasmus Hojlund is likely to remain unchanged.
Kick off at the Stadio Sinigaglia is due at 17.00 BST.
Como vs. Napoli: Probable line-ups
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, D.Carlos, Valle; Da Cunha, Perrone; Diao, Paz, Baturina; Douvikas.
Napoli (3-4-2-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Buongiorno; Politano, McTominay, Lobotka, Gutierrez; De Bruyne, Alisson; Hojlund.
Where to watch Como vs. Napoli
Today’s game will be available to watch live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and 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.
Pisa’s fate is now sealed after just two wins and 18 points from 35 matches, while Lecce move four points clear of 18th-placed Cremonese, who still have to face Lazio on Monday.
The home side started brightly and created the better openings early on, with Filip Stojilkovic and Simone Canestrelli both denied by sharp goalkeeping from Wladimiro Falcone. Lecce, however, grew into the contest, with Lameck Banda a constant threat down the flank.
It was Banda who broke the deadlock shortly after the restart. Lecce struck on the counter, and the Zambian winger showed composure to control before firing past Adrian Semper from mid-range to make it 1-0.
Pisa responded well and found an equaliser on 56 minutes through Mehdi Leris, who reacted quickest inside the box to fire a first-time finish into the bottom corner.
With the game finely balanced, Lecce regained the lead just after the hour mark. Santiago Pierotti slipped in Walid Cheddira, who showed determination to reach the ball ahead of the defence and calmly slot home what proved to be the winner.
Pisa pushed late on, going close through Gabriele Piccinini, but Lecce held firm despite late pressure and an offside goal ruling out a third.
The final whistle confirmed a painful outcome for Pisa, whose relegation is now mathematically certain, while Lecce take a significant step towards Serie A safety.
ITALY – MAY 1: Isak Vural in action against Oumar Ngom of US Lecce during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Lecce at Arena Garibaldi on May 1, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Gabriel Jesus has emerged as a potential option for Milan ahead of the summer transfer window, with the Arsenal striker already proposed to the Rossoneri following a recent change in representation.
According to Alfredo Pedullà, the Brazilian switched agents in January and is now part of the same management group as Massimiliano Allegri. That shared connection has helped place him on Milan’s radar, with initial contacts dating back several months.
“It’s not really a surprise to see him linked with Milan,” Pedullà explained, with quotes via MilanNews. “I told you about the change of agent in January, and Gabriel Jesus joined the Branchini group. Branchini is Allegri’s agent and Gabriel Jesus had already been offered to Milan.”
He added: “So this is something we had already revealed as a concrete possibility. We have to include Gabriel Jesus on the list of strikers who could be linked with Milan.”
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Pedulla: Gabriel Jesus would give Milan a leap in quality
The Brazilian has seen his role reduced at Arsenal, particularly following the arrival of Viktor Gyökeres, which has further limited his playing time and visibility.
“His contract isn’t very long, he’s playing less, and they’ve signed Gyokeres, so his situation has changed,” Pedullà continued. “It will depend a lot on Arsenal’s valuation, but he’s a strong striker, ready for a different experience.”
Pedullà believes a move could represent a step forward for Milan’s attack. “In my opinion, he would finally give Milan that leap in quality. They’ve been looking for a number nine for a long time. So keep an eye on this, things could develop in May.”
Romelu Lukaku could be heading for a return to the Premier League this summer, with Napoli open to selling the striker as they reshape their attack ahead of next season.
The Belgian has struggled for rhythm during the current campaign, making just seven appearances and playing little over an hour of football in total due to recurring hamstring and muscular problems. His lack of availability has limited his impact and is understood to have influenced Napoli’s decision to move in a different direction.
That strategy shift has already taken shape with the club securing Rasmus Højlund on a permanent deal, signalling a clear long-term change in their forward line. With just over 12 months remaining on his contract, Lukaku is now among the players who could be sacrificed as part of that transition.
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Milan & Inter like Lukaku as Premier League return touted
Initial checks have been made within Serie A, including tentative approaches to AC Milan and Inter Milan, but neither club is currently showing strong intent to pursue a deal. While Lukaku would prefer to remain in Italy, the lack of concrete interest has prompted his camp to explore alternative options.
Lukaku has extensive Premier League experience, having previously played for Chelsea, Manchester United, Everton and West Bromwich Albion, with his last spell coming in 2022.
Intermediaries are already making contact with several English clubs to gauge interest, as Lukaku weighs up his next move. Napoli are believed to be willing to accept a fee in the region of €20m, though any deal will depend on his fitness and the overall financial structure of the transfer.
The Week 35 fixture is set to kick off at the Stadio Sinigaglia on Saturday at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).
The epic injury crisis that affected so much of their campaign is finally beginning to ease off, as the only remaining absentees are David Neres, Antonio Vergara and Romelu Lukaku.
Di Lorenzo available again for Napoli
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of Napoli on the pitch ahead of the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Former Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan has offered a characteristically outspoken take on Scott McTominay, questioning the Manchester United man’s all-round quality despite his eye for goal.
Speaking to Sky Calcio Unplugged, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Nainggolan said: “I don’t like him. He scores a lot of goals, but in general play… he’ll always get 12, 13, 14 goals, but if he has to build play he doesn’t have the technique to operate between the lines. He’s an average player.”
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Scott McTominay of Napoli SSC reacts during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SSC Napoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 12, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Nainggolan: I was better than McTominay & Calhanoglu
The Belgian did not stop there, comparing himself to a range of midfielders past and present. “At my peak I was better than him and Hakan Çalhanoğlu, but I put Nicolò Barella above myself. He doesn’t always score many goals, but when he does they are important, and you can always feel the difference when he plays.”
He added: “I really like Kevin De Bruyne, he sees things others don’t. I’d put him above me. And if you mention Luka Modrić… he has always been one of the best in the world.”
Nainggolan also reflected on Serie A, insisting Inter’s title win came as no surprise.
“If you asked me at the start of the season, I would always have said Inter. They have the strongest squad and play the best football. Napoli and Milan got close, but they don’t have the same consistency.”
PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Scott McTominay of Napoli SSC reacts during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SSC Napoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 12, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
On Roma, he added: “It’s difficult to judge them, they are inconsistent. I don’t like the style of play, and with a player like Dybala you expect more games. Roma should never be outside the top four.”
Former Slovakia national team coach Francesco Calzona confirms he wants a return to club football and ‘Italy has the priority, but I don’t mind another experience abroad.’
Napoli’s Italian headcoach Francesco Calzona attends a press conference on the eve of the UEFA Champions League last 16 first leg football match between Napoli and Barcelona at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium on February 20, 2024. (Photo by Carlo Hermann / AFP) (Photo by CARLO HERMANN/AFP via Getty Images)
The 57-year-old had been an assistant manager to Maurizio Sarri, Eusebio Di Francesco and Luciano Spalletti before making the sudden and huge leap up to leading the Slovakia national team in 2022.
FLORENCE, ITALY – MAY 19: Francesco Calzona manager of SSC Napoli reacts during the Serie A TIM match between ACF Fiorentina and SSC Napoli at Stadio Artemio Franchi on May 19, 2024 in Florence, Italy.(Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“There are only games every three or four months, then when you do have the players together, there is very little time to get any work done or give an identity to the team.
“We had 22 out of 27 players spread out over various different leagues, so getting them together was really difficult, but a satisfying experience.
“Club football is a whole other thing, you are on the field every day and this is what someone in our profession really wants to be doing.”
Considering he is now a free agent after refusing a new contract with Slovakia, how does he see his next position?
“I would like to go back to club football, and Italy has the priority, although I don’t mind another experience abroad too. It was a fantastic experience in Slovakia.
“Serie A is difficult tactically, as the coaches are very well-prepared, there are so many talented bosses here.”
EMPOLI, ITALY – APRIL 20: Francesco Calzona manager of SSC Napoli looks on during the Serie A TIM match between Empoli FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Carlo Castellani on April 20, 2024 in Empoli, Italy.(Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Italian football is at a crossroads, so where does Calzona feel Serie A should be making changes?
“I don’t agree that there are too many foreign players in Italy, nor that we lack homegrown talent. We need more courage to play youngsters, because if you look at the results, Italy’s youth teams are doing extremely well.
“We just need to have the patience and allow them the opportunity to make mistakes. It’s about courage, really.”
During his time at Napoli, including under Spalletti, Calzona got to work with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, now making a huge impression at Paris Saint-Germain.
“I think it is in his DNA to reach the levels he is reaching, a fantastic player with qualities that are beyond the norm. It was unfortunately not possible to keep him in Italy, but he’s a protagonist in the Champions League, and if Georgia had gone to the World Cup, you could’ve talked about him winning the Ballon d’Or.”
With news Inter’s club referee manager Giorgio Schenone was mentioned in Gianluca Rocchi’s wiretapped calls, Marco Gabriele explains what the role actually entails.
It was alleged that Rocchi had colluded with someone to remove Daniele Doveri from big Inter games and replace him with someone ‘preferred’ by the club, such as Andrea Colombo, but not clear who had made the evaluations.
Schenone is Inter’s official club referee manager, so it is to a certain degree his job to communicate with the referees, but not every Serie A club even has someone in this role.
What is a club refereeing manager?
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Referee Gianluca Rocchi during the UEFA Champions League group H match between Chelsea FC and AFC Ajax at Stamford Bridge on November 05, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
“There are some internal duties within the club, others external that involve relations with the referee. During their careers, players often don’t know the rules of the game, especially when it comes to handball. So we try to inform the players of the rules and how to use the right language when communicating with the referee.
“There are some players who know more about the rules than others. Pepe Reina, for example, would write to me and ask about specific incidents in games he wasn’t even involved in.”
Among the duties of the club referee manager is also to study who is officiating the next match and prepare his players for the approach they might take.
“There can be some very clear differences,” continued Gabriele. “Massa for example is very detached, rigid in his communication, whereas Maresca and Guida prefer to dialogue with the players.
“I’ve also had to describe the characteristics of opposition players and statistics, for example that if you are up against Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and his opponents often get booked in the first half, a coach has to be prepared for that.”
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Napoli shows his disappointment during the Serie A match between Napoli and SS Lazio at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 08, 2024 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The issue at stake here is how must he represent the club when speaking to referees and the designator.
“The day of the game, you welcome the referee if it is your home match, accompany the officials to the dressing room and see if they need a physio or anything. Then organise transport to a hotel or airport after the match.
“It is also your job to ensure no directors enter the referee’s dressing room. Only the President of the club, or a representative of the club, can enter for a formal hello and that’s it.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MAY 23: Gianluca Rocchi former Italian referee and referee designator for the Serie A and Serie B championships during the FIGC Hall of Fame Event on May 23, 2022 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Can the referee club manager call up the refereeing designator?
“No, you cannot do that. If you did, the designator would have to inform the Federal Prosecutor. It’s different if you happen to meet in a stadium or another role, that’s natural that there will be a conversation.
“If you have to ask for an explanation of a certain decision, you call the designated go-between, who in this case is Andrea De Marco. There generally aren’t arguments in these situations, you’d just try to get your idea across, but never in a discourteous way,” concluded Gabriele.
It is important to note that while Inter designator Schenone was mentioned by Rocchi in the wiretapped phone call, he was not involved in the call itself.
The details are therefore still not very clear as to why Rocchi believed Inter didn’t want Doveri officiating their big games.
Davide Bartesaghi is attracting growing interest from the Premier League, with Newcastle United among the clubs closely monitoring the AC Milan youngster ahead of a key summer.
According to updates from Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel via Matteo Moretto, via MilanNews, Milan are planning to hold talks with Bartesaghi’s representatives at the end of the season to discuss his future and a potential contract adjustment. Nothing has been finalised yet, with both parties expected to sit down and assess the situation in detail.
The 20-year-old has made 28 Serie A appearances this season, scoring twice, including a brace at San Siro. His performances have been described as inconsistent at times, but with clear flashes of quality that underline his long-term potential.
ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Davide Bartesaghi gestures during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Newcastle among clubs keen on Milan’s Bartesaghi
That development has not gone unnoticed. Scouts from several English clubs have tracked Bartesaghi throughout the campaign, both at San Siro and away from home. Newcastle, in particular, are understood to hold concrete interest as they continue to look for young talent with room to grow.
For Milan, the situation remains open. A renewal with improved terms is on the table, but discussions will be needed before any agreement is reached. The Rossoneri are keen to understand Bartesaghi’s trajectory and secure his future, though interest from abroad could complicate negotiations.
The upcoming meeting between the club and the player’s entourage is expected to be decisive in determining whether Bartesaghi continues his development in Milan or becomes the subject of serious transfer interest this summer.
Pisa host Lecce on Friday evening at the Arena Garibaldi, with both sides lurking at the foot of the table in what is a must-win match for the hosts and the visitors.
The match kicks off at 20:45 local time (19:45 UK time), and Marco Guida will be the referee.
Pisa currently sit in last place, with two wins in 34 games and just 18 points to show for it on their return to Italy’s top flight.
Whilst not mathematically relegated just yet, tonight’s game could seal their fault. However, the 11-point gap, which could close to 8 tonight, would require Lecce and Cremonese to lose all of their remaining games.
For Lecce, who sit in 17th, tonight’s game is a genuine opportunity to extend their safety net above the drop zone to four points, with Cremonese set to host Lazio on Monday.
The hosts are without Daniel Denoon, Marius Marin and Matteo Tramoni, whilst Lecce have Kialonda Gaspar, Medon Berisha, Sadik Fofana and Riccardo Sottill on their injury list.
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pisa SC coach Oscar Hiljemark looks on 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)
Alessandro Bastoni remains Barcelona’s top target to strengthen their defence, but growing interest in Cristian Romero is creating uncertainty for Inter ahead of a crucial week in negotiations.
The Italian club had been preparing to open formal talks with Barcelona, with both parties initially aligned on progressing a deal.
However, according to Spanish outlet Sport, the emergence of the Tottenham centre-back as a viable and potentially cheaper alternative has introduced tension into the situation. Inter are actively working under the assumption that Bastoni could be sold and have already begun shaping their transfer strategy accordingly.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 07: Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur controls the ball during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Barcelona open to Romero as alternative to Inter’s Bastoni
At the heart of the issue is valuation. Inter are holding firm at around €60m for Bastoni, while Barcelona are reluctant to go beyond €50m unless player exchanges are included. That gap has raised concerns in Milan that pushing too hard could drive Barcelona towards Romero, whose overall cost is expected to be lower.
Bastoni himself is understood to be open to the move and keen on the opportunity to join Barcelona. Personal terms are not expected to be an obstacle, with the Spanish side capable of matching and improving his current salary. The defender is unlikely to force the situation publicly, but internally he is ready to signal his desire for a transfer if needed.
For now, Barcelona continue to prioritise Bastoni, but Romero remains firmly on their shortlist and is also open to the switch. With Inter needing to sell and alternatives available, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether Bastoni’s move materialises or collapses.
Max Allegri is trying to revitalise his Milan side against Sassuolo by testing Christopher Nkunku and Rafael Leao upfront, dropping misfiring Christian Pulisic.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Rafael Leao of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
With this in mind, Sky Sport Italia report that Allegri dropped the USMNT forward and tested out a new front pairing of Leao and Nkunku.
This would allow him to maintain the 3-5-2 formation, with using strikers who have different characteristics and might work better together.
The centre-forward was a January signing on loan from Aston Villa at a cost of €2m for the six-month spell, with an option to make it permanent for a further €25m.
Even the most wildly optimistic supporter could not have imagined the impact that he would have at the Stadio Olimpico.
Amazing Malen impact at Roma
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 10: Donyell Malen of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the team’s third goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Pisa SC at Stadio Olimpico on April 10, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
In just 16 appearances for the Giallorossi between Serie A and the Europa League, Malen has scored 12 goals plus two assists.
Incredibly, he is their top scorer both in Serie A and in all competition this season, despite not joining the squad until mid-January.
Of those 12 goals, 11 came in just 14 Serie A games, netting on his debut against Torino on January 18, just two days after completing the transfer.
It also gives the 27-year-old the opportunity to focus on bringing this kind of confidence and form to the Dutch team at the 2026 World Cup this summer.
The arrival of Bernardo Silva would significantly reshape Juventus’ attacking structure, particularly if Luciano Spalletti sticks with his preferred 4-2-3-1 system.
The Portuguese playmaker would slot straight into the No.10 role, becoming the creative hub of the team and reducing the need for a more attack-minded mezzala.
In this setup, Juventus would rely on a balanced double pivot behind him, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Manuel Locatelli looks the natural fit as the deeper midfielder, while Khéphren Thuram would need to adapt his game to offer more positional discipline. Out wide, one flank would remain built around Kenan Yıldız, while the opposite side may prioritise work rate, potentially favouring Weston McKennie over Francisco Conceição.
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – FEBRUARY 17: Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Knockout Play-off First Leg match between Galatasaray A.S. and Juventus at Ali Sami Yen Spor Kompleksi on February 17, 2026 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Burak Kara/Getty Images)
Juventus could part ways with Koopmeiners to facilitate Bernardo Silva
The clearest player to make way would be Teun Koopmeiners, whose hybrid midfield role becomes less relevant with a fixed playmaker in place.
Further forward, Jonathan David could see his importance reduced, while players like Fabio Miretti and Vasilije Adžić would likely be pushed towards exits to find regular playing time.
Overall, Bernardo Silva’s arrival would not just add quality but redefine roles across the squad, forcing Juventus into a more structured and technically driven system.
Milan director of sport Igli Tare insists ‘it is our duty to have the Scudetto as an objective,’ while it is ‘easier’ to convince players like Luka Modric to join the Rossoneri rather than Lazio.
The former striker had gone into management at Lazio straight after retirement, but following a sabbatical year, he took the Rossoneri job last summer.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“With the name Milan, it’s easier to convince players to join compared to when I was at Lazio, both for the history of the club, and the financial capability.”
Among the players who were drawn to the history of the San Siro giants was Modric, who never disguised growing up supporting the Serie A side.
“I knew that Modric was a Milan fan when he was a kid, so when we met and talked about the project, I saw he really knew a lot about the club. He had other offers, but wanted to make his dream come true of playing for 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 Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Croatian is out for the rest of the season after surgery on a fractured cheekbone, but with a contract that expires on June 30, his future is up in the air.
“I think he will choose with his heart and remain at Milan.”
They are on track for a third place finish and Champions League qualification in the first season under coach Max Allegri.
“I have a very good rapport with him,” continued Tare.
“We met at the start of the season, then didn’t have a lot of time to get to know each other better, but after the transfer window shut we managed to have some dinners together. He is a very intelligent person who knows how to handle certain dressing room situations.
“Milan chose Allegri for his history and the bond he already had with this club, his experience, and above all the ability to handle and important club like this.”
ITALY – MARCH 21: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Rossoneri had also been in the running for the Scudetto, but ultimately crumbled as Inter took control of the campaign, despite losing both editions of the Derby della Madonnina.
“We have good players, but unfortunately there are seasons with difficulties, and many of our strikers had injuries which didn’t allow them to train consistently,” added Tare.
“It is not just me that has the title in mind, but the club that always wants to always be competitive. Having the Scudetto in our minds as an objective is our duty.”
Having already tried to sign Curtis Jones in January, it is now reported in Italy that Inter will try again for the Liverpool midfielder, who remains eager.
The Nerazzurri had identified Jones as the ideal replacement in the January transfer window when Italy international Davide Frattesi appeared to be on his way to Nottingham Forest.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Curtis Jones of Liverpool controls the ball whilst under pressure from Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The 25-year-old’s current contract runs to June 2027, and the situation has still not been resolved, but it means now Inter could make a proposal to buy him outright at a much lower fee.
Frattesi again seems to be on his way out after struggling to get regular playing time under Cristian Chivu, a continuation of the problems he had with previous coach Simone Inzaghi.
Jones is a product of the Liverpool youth academy who spent his entire career with the Reds, this season contributing two goals and three assists in 45 competitive appearances.
Italian coach Roberto De Zerbi sent out a warning to Tottenham Hotspur players and fans as they battle relegation from the Premier League. ‘Losers cry and think negative.’
The former Benevento, Sassuolo, Shakhtar Donetsk, Brighton and Olympique Marseille tactician took over from Igor Tudor as the third coach of a seemingly cursed campaign at Spurs on March 31.
He has overseen a 1-0 defeat to Sunderland, 2-2 draw against his old club Brighton, and 1-0 victory away to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 18: Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 18, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
“I heard, ‘It is impossible’. We are crying, everyone, ‘We are relegated.’ Not yet,” noted the Italian.
“We have to die on the pitch and to die on the pitch we have to lose the game. Before losing the game, we have to play and we have to fight.
“We have two points less than West Ham and they have to play a difficult game as well. It is not the best moment for us. It is a tough and difficult moment.
“But the losers cry, the losers think negative. I don’t want people close to me to be crying or think in a different way from me.”
"The losers cry, the losers think negative."
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi says his players have to "die on the pitch" and stay emotionally positive in their battle against relegation. pic.twitter.com/S3d8fi4dEI
It has been said for decades that Tottenham have a sense of negativity about them, which can see the club under various different managers and players manage to fumble successful situations.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – APRIL 12: Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, shakes hands with Richarlison after the Premier League match between Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadium of Light on April 12, 2026 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
“The most important challenge now is to silence the voice inside of us. Inside of the players, the staff and the fans,” continued the Italian.
“This voice produces negative thoughts and it says we are unlucky, we have too many injuries, we lost Xavi Simons, he was in the last two games one of our best and most important players.
“Our medical staff not good enough, the pitch of the stadium and the training ground is not good, it is impossible winning two or three games in a row because we have not won too many games in 2026.
“I think these are all negative things and it’s rubbish because I want to keep my focus on ourselves and the quality of my players.”
Venezia are back in Serie A after securing promotion with one round to go, having been relegated to Serie B in 2025, while Frosinone break away from Monza for that second spot.
The top two are automatically promoted to Serie A, along with a third team that will have to be decided through the play-offs.
Venezia back in Serie A
VENICE, ITALY – APRIL 12: Supporters of Venezia in action prior the Serie A match between Venezia and Monza at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo on April 12, 2025 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Venezia fumbled a 2-0 lead and drew 2-2 away to troubled Spezia, but that was enough to guarantee their ascension to the top flight, just one year on from their relegation.
Since their most recent bankruptcy in 2015, the Lagunari have played in Serie A for the 2021-22 and 2024-25 season, both times going straight back down.
It is the fourth time coach Giovanni Stroppa has secured promotion.
LA SPEZIA, ITALY – JUNE 1: Giovanni Stroppa manager of US Cremonese celebrates their victory after the Serie B match between Spezia Calcio and US Cremonese Serie B Play-off Final at Stadio Alberto Picco on June 1, 2025 in La Spezia, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Frosinone and Monza had been neck and neck for the second automatic promotion spot, but today the former won 1-0 away to Juve Stabia, while the latter were defeated 3-2 at Mantova in another thriller.
This opened up a three-point gap going into the final round of the regular season, to see who goes up directly, and who enters the promotion play-offs.
It means Frosinone need only a point next week to be sure of promotion.
At the foot of the table, Reggiana are mathematically relegated to Lega Pro, with Spezia and Pescara locked together on 34 points, three adrift of Bari.
Pescara are in deep trouble after Flavio Rossi’s penalty was saved in their last-gasp 1-0 defeat away to Padova, but it’s not clear why Lorenzo Insigne didn’t step up instead.
Bari and Virtus Entella are currently in the relegation play-out places, but Empoli and Sudtirol are within reach too.
Inter are planning their Scudetto celebration parade through the streets of Milan and hoping for a Double party, while the players and staff will get a total €6m in bonuses.
The Nerazzurri could even already be guaranteed the Serie A title before setting foot on the pitch against Parma on Sunday, if Napoli lose to Como and Milan fail to beat Sassuolo first.
In any case, victory over Parma would be enough to secure the crown with three rounds to spare.
Inter ready for Scudetto celebration
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, celebrates after during the Coppa Italia Semi-Final match between FC Internazionale and Como at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This would be the club’s 21st title in 108 years and an open-top bus parade through the city is planned for next week.
It would be after the penultimate match of the season, when hosting Hellas Verona at San Siro on May 17.
Inter Milan’s fans cheer as their team’s bus arrives at San Siro Stadium prior to the Italian Serie A football match AC Milan vs Inter Milan in Milan, Italy on April 22, 2024 (Photo by Piero CRUCIATTI / AFP) (Photo by PIERO CRUCIATTI/AFP via Getty Images)
The date is not a coincidence, as Inter hope that they will by then be able to put on a party for the Double, as they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
It’d allow them to show off both trophies from the top of an open-top bus, having ended last season empty-handed.
According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, there are also several contract clauses promising bonuses for the players, coach Cristian Chivu, and his staff.
The total figures would come close to €6m shared out between all of them.
The Week 35 Serie A fixture is due to kick off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).
Coach Luciano Spalletti is hoping to consolidate fourth place and lock down that Champions League qualification against a team that is practically already relegated.
Juventus team news for Verona
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Yildiz has been struggling with a recurring tendon issue and largely been making appearances off the bench in recent weeks.
Vlahovic also worked with the rest of the squad and ought to be given more playing time, but Spalletti needs to be more careful with the Serbian.
The striker was out for many months with a serious thigh strain and then suffered a calf twinge during the warm-up for a substitute appearance last month.
Jonathan David is expected to again start upfront, with support from Yildiz and Francisco Conceicao, with only Juan Cabal and Arkadiusz Milik injured.
This is situated between Lucca and Pisa, with over 800 hectares already gone up in smoke, and the village of Asciano completely evacuated.
Pisa vs. Lecce threatened by wildfire
COMO, ITALY – MARCH 22: Pisa SC coach Oscar Hiljemark looks on 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)
The concern is that plumes of dark smoke are wafting over the whole region, potentially affecting visibility and breathable air in the vicinity of the stadium.
It is reported the situation is being constantly monitored, and at the moment the Serie A match is going ahead as planned.
Something as simple as the direction of the wind changing could radically alter the situation, sending the smoke and flames directly towards the stadium.
The closure of roads could also affect fans who are hoping to make their way to the arena.
Luciano Spalletti has been crowned as the Serie A coach of the month for April after an unbeaten run over the last few weeks, and the Juventus tactician has now equalled the record for the most wins since the award was introduced in 2021-22.
Juventus’s Spalletti named Serie A coach of the month for April
Spalletti has won the coach of the month award after leading Juventus to three victories and one draw across their four matches in the month of April. The Bianconeri picked up a 2-0 victory over Genoa at the start of the month, defeated Atalanta 1-0 away from home the following week, beat Bologna 2-0 at the Allianz Stadium and most recently held Milan to a 0-0 draw in San Siro.
These results put Juventus in fourth place with four matches of the 2025-26 season left to play, three points behind the third-placed Milan and importantly, three points clear of Como and Roma in fifth and sixth place respectively.
Spalletti will receive his award ahead of the Serie A match between Juventus and Hellas Verona at the Allianz Stadium this Sunday, May 3.
Spalletti is the first Juventus representative to win the coach of the month award since the aforementioned Allegri back in November 2023. This is his first coach of the year award away from Napoli.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 19: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Allianz Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Spalletti has now won the Serie A coach of the month award a record five times, a feat that has only previously been achieved by former Inter and Lazio boss Simone Inzaghi, who won all of his awards with the Nerazzurri.
Allegri, Gian Piero Gasperini and Thiago Motta are the next-most successful with four coach of the month wins each, then come Vincenzo Italiano and Cesc Fabregas on three apiece.
Serie A coach of the month winners so far in 2025-26
The Nerazzurri are trying to revamp their defence for next season, as Francesco Acerbi, Matteo Darmian and Stefan de Vrij are expected to move on, with Alessandro Bastoni and Carlos Augusto also said to be considering their future.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 22: Nathan Ake of Manchester City celebrates with the Carabao Cup trophy after the team’s victory in the Carabao Cup Final match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on March 22, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
His contract with Manchester City only runs to June 2027, so it would make sense for the Premier League club to make a sale this summer and avoid losing him on a free transfer.
The Netherlands international is already 31 years of age, and has been linked with Bayer Leverkusen and Besiktas in recent months, but would bring valuable experience to the Inter defence.
EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 31: Nathan Ake of Netherlands stands for the national anthem prior to the international friendly match between Netherlands and Ecuador at Philips Stadion on March 31, 2026 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Manchester City paid €45m to sign Aké from Bournemouth in 2020 and his previous clubs include Chelsea, Watford, Reading and the Feyenoord youth academy.
There had been similar concerns over Akanji leaving Manchester City for Inter last summer, but on the verge of his 31st birthday, the Switzerland international has been a strong performer.
Reports suggest Inter club referee manager Giorgio Schenone is the man who designator Gianluca Rocchi mentioned when assigning officials more favoured by the team in April 2025.
Serie A and B refereeing designator Rocchi was one of five individuals from the AIA (Italian Association of Referees) under investigation with the most serious accusation being sporting fraud.
The investigators claimed that Rocchi had in April 2025 colluded with someone to remove Daniele Doveri from Inter’s big games in the closing stages of the season, because the club did not favour his presence, and instead picked Andrea Colombo.
Why Inter club referee manager is important
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)
It was until now not clear who he was meant to have colluded with or why he believed Inter did not want Doveri, seeing as nobody from the club was under investigation.
According to Repubblica newspaper, the figure has now been identified as Inter’s club referee manager Schenone, who was an assistant referee from 2009 to 2020, then after retirement began working with the Nerazzurri.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: Referee Daniele Doveri 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)
He was mentioned during Rocchi’s telephone call which was wiretapped during the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final between Inter and Milan at San Siro on April 2, 2025.
It was during this call that Rocchi reportedly mentioned who Inter would prefer not be assigned to their games.
AIA chief Gianluca Rocchi (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Although mentioned in this phone call by Rocchi, the call itself was apparently not directly with Schenone, and he is not as of now under formal investigation.
The job of the club referee manager is to co-ordinate with the referees for each home game, accompany them to the locker rooms, ensure all their needs are met.
They also speak to the players before matches, outlining the style of officiating they are likely to get, explaining the changes to the interpretation of certain rules.
It is not unusual for these figures to also discuss previous refereeing performances and decisions with the AIA.
Moise Kean is expected to miss the upcoming Serie A match between Roma and Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico this weekend, and while the Italy international has missed the last three outings through injury, reports confirm that he has been given permission to sit this one out on personal grounds.
Kean and his partner are expecting the birth of their second child in the coming days, and the Fiorentina striker has been given permission to spend the next few days at home according to updates from Violanews.com. Kean is expected to be away from the squad from May 1 until May 4.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 04: Shot in action during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 04, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
During his absence, the Viola striker will also continue working with his rehabilitation work to overcome the physical issues that have kept him out of his side’s last three Serie A matches.
Fiorentina have beaten Lazio 1-0, drawn 1-1 with Lecce and drawn 0-0 with Sassuolo in Kean’s absence. Paolo Vanoli’s side are now seven matches unbeaten in the league after a disastrous first half of the 2025-26 season.
Roberto Piccoli was Fiorentina’s go-to replacement for the first two matches of Kean’s recent absence, but as the Italian was also ruled out of the most recent 0-0 draw with Sassuolo, the starting centre-forward role was handed over to Albert Gudmundsson.
Controversial Olympique de Marseille forward Mason Greenwood is beginning to be linked with a move to Juventus again, as current Bianconeri star Francisco Conceicao is attracting interest from Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United according to the latest reports.
Greenwood had been linked with a move to join Juventus on several occasions over the last two seasons and his name is beginning to reappear in Bianconeri circles approaching the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old forward has netted 36 goals from 62 appearances in Ligue 1 over the last two seasons, including 15 from 28 league outings in 2025-26.
He and his Marseille teammates currently find themselves in sixth place in the Ligue 1 table heading into the final three matches of the 2025-26 season and are unlikely to qualify for next season’s Champions League. This means that Greenwood could potentially be allowed to leave to raise funds and to fulfil the player’s desire of competing in UEFA’s flagship competitions next season.
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Harvey Barnes of Newcastle United is challenged by Mason Greenwood of Olympique de Marseille during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Olympique de Marseille and Newcastle United FC at Stade de Marseille on November 25, 2025 in Marseille, France. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, current Juventus forward Conceicao is beginning to attract interest from some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League, including Liverpool and Manchester United according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Portugal international has come up with four goals and four assists from 38 appearances across all competitions this season, but it is his relentlessness and dribbling ability that has caught the eye of scouts in the Premier League.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus celebrates their first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Juventus paid a fee of €7m plus up to €3m in bonuses to sign Conceicao on loan for the 2024-25 season, and then invested a further €30.4m with bonuses of up to €1.6m to sign the winger on a permanent transfer at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign. That means that Juventus have agreed to invest a minimum of €37.4m on his signing and a maximum of €43m if all bonuses were to be met.
Friday’s reports indicate that it would take an offer in the region of €50m to convince Juventus into selling Conceicao this summer, which is coincidentally roughly the same fee that has been mentioned if Juventus were to attempt to sign Greenwood this summer.
Reports in Italy claim that Marco Palestra is among Inter’s top targets heading into the summer transfer window, but signing the exciting young full-back likely depends on a couple of outgoings first.
Report: Inter could sell two players to accommodate Palestra signing
According to reports from Corriere dello Sport and Calciomercato.com, Palestra and Como’s Nico Paz are Inter’s two great ‘obsessions’ ahead of the summer transfer window. Palestra has enjoyed an excellent breakthrough season on an individual level with Cagliari, where he has spent the 2025-26 season on loan from Atalanta.
Palestra will return to Bergamo this summer, and according to Friday’s reports, Atalanta’s ideal plan would be for Palestra to stay on board for another season in Serie A before looking for a sale, potentially for an even higher fee.
However, with plans to strengthen Cristian Chivu’s squad after what is expected to be the club’s 21st Scudetto in 2025-26, Inter are keen to bring Palestra to San Siro this summer, and are said to be prepared to invest a fee in the region of €40m for the 21-year-old right-back.
CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Marco Palestra of Italy in action during the UEFA Euro U21 Qualification match between Italy and Armenia at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 14, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
According to the latest updates, Inter will likely have to move players on first before welcoming Palestra, though.
There is talk that current first-choice right wing-back Denzel Dumfries could leave the club given that he has a €25m release clause in his contract, which will be valid this summer.
There has also been a suggestion that Luis Henrique could be sold if an offer were to come in this summer. The Brazilian has struggled to impress in his first season in Serie A, and as per Calciomercato, there was interest from AFC Bournemouth during the January transfer window. Inter would reportedly be even more keen to sell Luis Henrique this summer if interest were to reemerge.
Reports in Italy indicate that Luka Modric is set to trigger the one-year extension clause in his contract with Milan rather than end his illustrious career through injury after fracturing his cheekbone in a recent 0-0 draw with Juventus.
Modric and Milan expecetd to activate 12-month extension clause
The signing of the 40-year-old former Ballon d’Or winner has been an overwhelming success in San Siro. Modric has started in 32 of Milan’s 34 matches in Serie A so far this season, and has racked up a total of 2,788 minutes in the league, which is more than he managed in any of his last five seasons with Real Madrid.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Luka Modric of AC Milan is assisted off by medical staff after going down injured during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This could have potentially been a career-ending injury, given that Modric signed a one-year contract with Milan at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign, but reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that he will activate the 12-month extension clause in his deal in order to prolong his stay in San Siro.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, it is technically a club option to extend, but Milan will not activate the extension clause in Modric’s contract without his blessing first.
Friday’s report claims that Modric just needs to give the thumbs up, which he is expected to do, in order for Milan to extend his stay until the end of the 2026-27 season. A formal announcement is unlikely to arrive before the end of the 2026 World Cup this summer, though.
Modric is said to be attracted to the idea of playing Champions League football under Massimiliano Allegri next season, as well as the idea of announcing his retirement and bidding farewell to professional football at a major club like Milan and at an iconic venue like San Siro.
Doesn’t want to finish on an injury, another year in Rossonero to play in the Champions League with Allegri, or it’s goodbye to football
The Scudetto of goals
Inter: ThuLa for the league and cup
Lautaro top scorer, Thuram vice: An historic partnership. Napoli in Como tomorrow
Malagò shot
Towards the elections
Players and coaches are convinced, FIGC Presidency getting closer
‘Favoured’ referees don’t appear in any testimony
Gervasoni in front of the prosecutor’s office
Corriere dello Sport
Forza Calcio!
From the refereeing scandal to the super weekend
Three Champions League finals | Tomorrow, Como-Napoli will decide the top clubs’ European fates and Inter’s Scudetto
Conte will be at the home of Fabregas after the tensions in the first leg and the league title they won together at Chelsea. McTominay needs five points from four games to secure the gold from UEFA
Gervasoni to the prosecutor’s office: ‘No alterations’
Referee investigation: In Rocchi’s logic, there are no distinctions between favoured and unfavoured refs
The Yildiz policy
Juventus-Verona on Sunday
A 55% win rate and 1.8 goals per game with Kenan. Four wins in 21 games without the trequartista
Malen, what an average
Roma-Fiorentina on Monday
Donyell for 4th place: 0.87 goals per 90 minutes. Only Mbappe and Kane better than him
Palestra for Inter
Parma arrive on Sunday
Lautaro returns to secure the 21st Scudetto. Not only Paz: Ausilio is also pushing for the full-back
Frosinone dream, Bari at risk
Penultimate round in Serie B
Alvini is chasing direct promotion against Monza and Venezia, Longo can’t afford any slip-ups to avoid relegation
Tuttosport
‘Yildiz like Kvara and Olise with Spalletti’
Interview with Causio
The ex-Bianconeri ace: ‘Lucio knows perfectly how to manage talent and Kenan has the skills of a super, top player. Juve is ideal for Conceicao. How great was PSG-Bayern!’. Stiller: Meeting has been scheduled. Di Gregorio could stay as a second-choice keeper, Perin heading for an exit
Jannik, give us five!
Madrid, Semi-final against Fils at 15.00: Sinner chasing his fifth straight Masters 1000
Malagò gets his hands on the FIGC
Towards the election
The former CONI no.1 has won the support of the players and coaches as well as that of the Serie A: Now he’s close to a majority
Gervasoni defends himself as the investigation continues
Four hours at the prosecutor’s office.
The former VAR supervisor interviewed regarding Salernitana-Modena and Inter-Roma: ‘I rule out the audio being tampered with’
D’Aversa, an obstacle course to fend off Gattuso
The Toro coach facing injuries and competition
He will be without Zapata, Ismajli, Adams and Pederson in Udine tomorrow. The former CT and Juric also cast shadows over the coach: ‘The objective is the top half of the table. We have to be ambitious: Everyone. The club’s history deserves more than just staying up’.
It is no secret that the Rossoneri are in dire need of a new centre-forward, as Santiago Gimenez and Niclas Fullkrug are often left on the bench while Rafael Leao is pushed into a role that doesn’t suit him.
Max Allegri had a three-hour meeting with Milan directors this evening to discuss their transfer strategy for next season and that includes finding a hitman.
Gabriel Jesus back on Milan radar
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 20: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Arsenal FC at Stadio San Siro on January 20, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The 29-year-old is only under contract with Arsenal until June 2027, so considering he was purchased for €52m from Manchester City in 2022, it is their last chance to sell.
Gabriel Jesus made only 25 competitive appearances this season, scoring five goals with two assists.
Curiously, two of those goals were in the Champions League against Milan’s bitter rivals Inter.
He had a lengthy lay-off after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee in January 2025, which kept him out for the best part of a whole year.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Duvan Zapata of Torino celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 08, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Scotland international striker Adams has suffered a hamstring strain in his right leg.
Duvan Zapata sustained a muscular issue with the adductor in the left thigh.
As for defender Ismajli, his problem is with the femoral bicep in the right leg.
Marcus Pedersen was out of the side that drew with Inter and remains in doubt for this weekend too.
Lega Serie A President Ezio Simonelli warns politicians can ‘continue turning the other way, or turn this deep crisis into an opportunity to revitalise’ football in Italy.
The Nazionale failed to qualify for three consecutive editions of the World Cup, and have no clubs in the semi-finals of the UEFA tournaments this season.
With the search on for a new FIGC President and reforms proposed, Lega Serie A President Simonelli presented the case to the Commission for Culture.
Serie A pushing for new stadiums
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 21: A general view of the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium San Siro ahead of the Coppa Italia match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at San Siro on April 21, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“If we are here today, it is not just because we missed two penalties in the shoot-out with Bosnia, and we must work hard to bring Italian football back to the glories of the past,” said Simonelli.
“The analysis of the state of our football cannot help but start from the fact that, for the top five European leagues, TV rights money has stagnated, but the revenue from stadiums has climbed significantly.
“Our Serie A stadiums are the oldest in Europe, and comparing the revenue of the new Bernabeu with the current San Siro, which is today the best performing Italian stadium when it comes to income, it’s a gap of 350 per cent. Real Madrid’s new stadium brings in €250m compared to San Siro’s €70m.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – APRIL 11: General view outside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Juventus at Gewiss Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images)
It is no secret where the problems lie there, as clubs have battled for decades to get new stadiums built, only for Inter, Milan, Roma, Lazio, Napoli, Fiorentina, Cagliari and Venezia to run into endless red tape.
Of those who did manage to get stadiums revamped, such as Juventus, Atalanta and Udinese, it was by reconstructing existing arenas.
With EURO 2032 coming up and Italy co-hosting with Turkiye, it’s going to be a race against time to get five stadiums ready for the competition.
“Politics can continue to turn the other way, trying to impose even more restrictive and penalising rules, even thinking of putting the Federation under receivership,” continued Simonelli.
“Or it could turn this deep crisis into an opportunity to revitalise football in Italy. I believe we can emerge from this crisis only if politics and Serie A are able to sit on the same side of the table and work together, without political differences or reciprocal prejudice preventing us from doing what is best for Italian football.
“I have too much respect for Italian politicians to believe they are not interested in giving their contribution to Italy’s favourite sport.”
Como coach Cesc Fabregas will reunite with Antonio Conte when facing Napoli this weekend and reveals ‘nobody made me suffer more’ in training than the then-Chelsea manager.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (L) greets player Cesc Fabregas (R) at the end of the English Premier League soccer match Chelsea vs Swansea at Stamford Bridge, London, Britain, 25 February 2017. EPA/WILL OLIVER EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications
“He made me suffer so much on a purely physical level, he was always demanding pace, intensity, go at full speed, nobody made me suffer more. I want that too from my team, perhaps in a slightly different way, some with or without the ball.
“It is true that after four or five months of adapting to his methods, by December I was flying. I felt physically incredible. Once I got used to his way of doing things, his mentality, I really believed in what he was doing.”
Fabregas made 86 competitive appearances under Conte at Chelsea from 2016 to 2018, scoring 10 goals and providing 22 assists.
Now on the verge of his 39th birthday, the Spanish former midfielder is proving himself as a coach at Como in Serie A and challenging for a top four finish.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists Iran ‘will be participating’ in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico, ruling out the possibility of an Italy recall.
There have been some significant doubts on whether Iran would or even could take part in the competition this summer, considering they are currently embroiled in a war with the USA and Israel.
Making things even more complicated is that Iran were drawn in a group where their matches will be in the United States of America.
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 15: FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks at the Semafor World Economy 2026 summit on April 15, 2026 in Washington, DC. The summit brings together business leaders and tech CEOs for discussions on economy, artificial intelligence and business trends. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
“Of course, Iran will play in the United States of America. The reason for that is simple, because we have to unite. We have to bring people together.”
If Iran had withdrawn or been excluded from the tournament, then FIFA would need to find a replacement, and Italy were well placed as the highest ranking nation to fail the qualifying process.
ZENICA, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – MARCH 31: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy reacts after the FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and Italy at Stadion Bilino Polje on March 31, 2026 in Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
Former President Massimo Moratti insists the current investigation into referees for sporting fraud are ‘ridiculous compared to Calciopoli,’ and that ‘Inter have never been helped’ by officials.
Another four members of the refereeing world are also under investigation, but Moratti was President of Inter in 2006 and insists the club is clean.
Moratti trusts Inter never helped by officials
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 13: Massimo Moratti attends the presentation of Ivan Zazzaroni’s new book ‘Diventare Mourinho’ at the Rizzoli bookshop in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II on October 13, 2022 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Vincenzo Lombardo/Getty Images)
“I didn’t follow the matter too closely, but it seems more like a small battle between referees than anything to do with clubs. I don’t see comparisons with Calciopoli,” Moratti told Napoli Network.
“I had fear and respect of the referees then, because they could decide the fate of my team, especially considering we had Juventus on the other side. I still imagined this was a difficult profession, and consequently I didn’t speak to them.
“I read interviews with De Santis and Luciano Moggi, who were found guilty in Calciopoli, and it’s incredible that people are asking for their opinion on the matter.
“What is happening now is ridiculous compared to that.”
Several clubs were caught up in the Calciopoli scandal for communication and pressure on the refereeing designators to assign certain officials or avoid others, but at no point was sporting fraud one of the charges.
FC Internazionale Milano new president Milano Erick Thohir and honorary president Massimo Moratti (R) attend a press conference after the FC Internazionale Milano shareholders’ meeting on November 15, 2013 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Pier Marco Tacca/Getty Images)
Moratti, who saw Inter handed the 2005-06 Scudetto because all the clubs ahead of them in the table had been docked points in the scandal, maintains their absolute innocence both then and now.
“Seeing the games, I don’t see anything unbalanced. Inter never had help, not when they won and not when they lost. Refereeing errors can happen, and often they are serious errors, but these things have always happened.”
Mario Gila’s agent has denied agreeing terms with Milan, Juventus, Real Madrid, Napoli or any other club. ‘If someone wants him, they have to talk to Lazio.’
The central defender has been very impressive over the last few seasons, and seeing as his contract at the Stadio Olimpico only runs to June 2027, a sale would have to be made this summer to avoid losing him as a free agent.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Mario Gila of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Rafael Leao of AC Milan during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
“Mario still has a year left on his contract with Lazio,” was his reply.
“I can say that, with all due respect for everyone’s work, none of what I’ve read is true. Milan are a very important club and I am really pleased that one of my players is linked with one of the most important clubs in the world.
“It makes me proud, but I must respect Lazio in this fundamental moment of the season. Lazio are going into a Coppa Italia Final against Inter, that is a trophy up for grabs.
“So I am not talking to Milan, with Juve, or with any other club. If someone wants Gila, then they have to talk to Lazio, who own his contract. I am only the player’s agent.”
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Mario Gila of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on January 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
It has been suggested that Gila would particularly favour Milan if it means getting to work with coach Max Allegri.
“Allegri is one of the best coaches in the world, we all know how good he is, but the most important figure right now is Maurizio Sarri, because he is his coach at Lazio,” added Camano.
“We consider Sarri one of the best in the world, because he is at Lazio.”
It is not just Milan and Juve who have been keeping a close eye on Gila, but also Real Madrid, Napoli and Inter, with a suggested price-tag of €25m.
“I repeat, I respect everyone here, but Gila is a Lazio player. Mario has a contract to 2027, the Coppa Italia Final is coming up, he is proud to play for Lazio and right now that is all we want to talk about.”
Paulo Dybala’s mother-in-law reveals a special promise that the striker made which could take him to Boca Juniors this summer, even if ‘Roma would be his first choice.’
La Joya will be a free agent on July 1 unless Roma offer him a new contract, and at the moment it seems increasingly unlikely they will be able to reach an agreement.
Now his mother-in-law Catherine Fulop gives extra insight into why this has to be the logical step in his career.
Dybala’s father had Boca Juniors dream
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“He loves Roma, he loves the team, and I also think Roma love him very much too. That would be his first choice, staying there,” she told Urbana Play via TyC Sports.
“Paulo made a promise to his father that one day he would wear the Boca Juniors jersey, that would be a dream instilled in him by his Dad, and he wants to fulfil that dream.”
Dybala and his wife Oriana became parents recently to daughter Gia, so moving back to Argentina to be closer to family would be another strong motive.
“I’m happy if they are coming to Buenos Aires, of course.”
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 23: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma acknowledges the fans after the teams defeat in the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between AS Roma and FC Viktoria Plzen at Stadio Olimpico on October 23, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
However, there is one big problem with her son-in-law wearing the Boca Juniors jersey, namely that her husband and Oriana’s father is a fan of their bitter rivals River Plate.
“Yes, that’s bad. Ova doesn’t miss a single River match…”
Now 32, La Joya left Argentina very young for Palermo in 2012, then moved to Juventus in 2015 and Roma as a free agent in 2022.
The only club he ever represented in his homeland was Instituto Atletico Central Cordoba.
Following the failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, Gabriele Gravina tended his resignation as President of the Italian Football Federation, setting up an election on June 22 to find his replacement.
It seems to be a two-horse race between Malagò and Giancarlo Abete, with the former receiving the public backing of the Lega Serie A, then today the Players’ Association (AIC) and Coaches’ Association (AIAC).
However, the former CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) chief has not yet even confirmed he will stand for the election.
Malagò still undecided on FIGC role
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY – MARCH 05: Giovanni Malago, President of the Organising Committee for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, looks on during the Paralympic Games Opening Press Conference ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at on March 05, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
“I thank them for the faith show in me, which adds further responsibility in evaluating my candidacy, so I intend to make a final decision by the end of next week, with respect for the Serie B and C assemblies.”
Not all the votes are equal in this election, because the Lega Serie A has 18 per cent of the vote, Serie B 6 per cent, Lega Pro 12 per cent, the amateur league LND 34 per cent, Players Association 20 per cent and Coaches Association 10 per cent.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Giancarlo Abete Former President of FIGC arrives at Gran Galà Del Calcio AlC 2025 on December 01, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Sara Cavallini/Getty Images)
Malagò therefore now has 47 per cent of the vote locked down, but Abete is the current President of the LND and therefore has their 34 per cent already behind him.
Igli Tare says that signing on as Milan director of sport was ‘one of the best days of my life,’ and insists he has a bracingly honest rapport with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
He sat down with DAZN Italia for an interview with Giorgia Rossi that will air from Friday, but the channel released a few snippets to the media in advance.
Tare committed to Milan project
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The time when I sealed the agreement with Milan was one of the best days of my life,” said Tare.
He also discussed the reportedly fractious rapport with club special advisor Ibrahimovic.
“We are both from the Balkans, we say things to people’s faces.”
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 08: AC Milan Senior Advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on before 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)
It looks as if Max Allegri’s side is on track to qualify for the Champions League, a significant improvement from last season’s failure to get into any European competition.
“In order to be worthy of Milan, we must get back to winning. You have to leave your mark here,” warned Tare.
The director also has faith that Rafael Leao will eventually manage to prove himself after years of inconsistency.
“He has incredible potential. As Luka Modric says, even he doesn’t realise just how much he can give.”
Fiorentina announced that Moise Kean will not be available for the match against Roma on Monday, as he is dealing with a family matter, leaving them with no strikers.
The game kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Monday May 4 at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
The Viola have not yet mathematically guaranteed their Serie A safety, but go into this big match with an injury crisis.
Fiorentina still missing Kean
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, his absence was confirmed by a statement from the club noting that Kean will be given time away from May 1 to May 4 so he can deal with a family matter.
He will return to Florence and the Viola Park training ground to continue treatment on the morning of May 5.
It’s a particular problem, as Roberto Piccoli sustained an adductor strain during the game with Sassuolo, and remains a major doubt.
Robin Gosens and Fabiano Parisi are only partially taking part in training, while Niccolò Fortini and long-term absentee Tariq Lamptey should miss out.
Fiorentina could therefore end up using Albert Gudmundsson as a False 9.
Giovanni Malagò moved a step closer to becoming the new FIGC President after both the Coaches’ Association and Players’ Association backed his candidacy.
Following Gabriele Gravina’s resignation, there will be an election on June 22 to decide who takes over as the new chief of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC).
After the Lega Serie A backed Malagò, today both the Italian Players’ Association (AIC) and Italian Association of Coaches (AIAC) gave their support to the same candidate.
Malagò closer to FIGC role
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 15: CONI President Giovanni Malago’ attends the Italian Olympic Commitee ‘Collari d’Oro’ Awards ceremony on December 15, 2015 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“The players and coaches have expressed a shared vision, identifying Giovanni Malagò as the person capable of responding to the many challenges of the present and above all the future,” read a statement to news agency ANSA.
“During meetings over the last few weeks, important convergences emerged on the principle programme points like Club Italia, sustainability and reforms, women’s football, a vision of sport that building on the initial impulse presented by the Lega Serie A offers guarantees in this delicate and important season on the path we should take.”
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY – MARCH 05: Giovanni Malago, President of the Organising Committee for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, looks on during the Paralympic Games Opening Press Conference ahead of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games at on March 05, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
It seems to be a head-to-head now between Malagò and Giancarlo Abete, but the former is now at around 47 per cent of the voting bloc.
The FIGC elections are split so Serie A has 18 per cent of the vote, Serie B 6 per cent, Lega Pro 12 per cent, the amateur league LND 34 per cent, Players Association 20 per cent and Coaches Association 10 per cent.
Malagò is the former President of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) and most recently ran the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympic Games.
Former Inter and Italy midfielder Stefano Sensi admits he could have played for Barcelona or Manchester City if it wasn’t for his frequent injuries and explains how Novak Djokovic’s book ‘Serve to Win’ helped him recover his best shape.
Former Inter midfielder Sensi, now an Anorthosis player in the Cyprus League, gave an interview to Gazzetta dello Sport about his unfortunate career, marred by numerous injuries.
The 30-year-old joined the Cypriot side as a free agent last summer after the end of his contract with Monza.
“I’m doing well, and I’m having fun. I really needed it. I play 90 minutes per game, and I’m in top physical condition, and I’ve made friends with many Cypriots,” he said.
Sensi: Inter move ‘made me proud’
“The fans are incredibly passionate, and the coach is [Mauro] Camoranesi. He arrived here midway through the season. I didn’t know him, and I’ve discovered a beautiful person and a great coach. After months of speaking only English, thanks to him, I’ve been able to dust off my Italian.”
The Italian midfielder admitted that he does not miss living in Italy.
“Right now, no. I’m having the experience I wanted. I live in Larnaca, the quietest city on the island,” he said.
“I’m a quiet person; I don’t need to go partying. Obviously, getting here after living in Milan felt a bit strange.”
Sensi was regarded as one of the best Italian midfielders in 2019, when he joined Inter from Sassuolo in a €25m deal.
“It’s such a great memory; a milestone that made me proud. I still think about the day they signed me,” he said.
“I was on holiday in Formentera, and my agent surprisingly called me, saying that Ausilio wanted to talk to me. My legs were shaking. I knew everyone would be proud of me back home.”
Sensi had a tremendous impact at San Siro, scoring three goals and providing four assists in his opening six games with the Nerazzurri under Antonio Conte.
The Italian was among the best players on the pitch in Inter’s 2-1 loss away at Barcelona in the Champions League group stage in October 2019, so both the Catalans and Manchester City began following him.
“Yes, surely. Certain clubs follow you because they see something important,” he said.
“Then we know what happened, and it’s okay; there’s nothing I can do about it.”
Just four days after that performance in Barcelona, Sensi sustained the first of his many injuries at Inter. Which clubs could he have played for without all his fitness problems?
“It’s hard to say; many things have happened—perhaps Barcelona or Manchester City, or maybe still at Inter,” he replied.
Sensi played only 57 matches with Inter before joining Sampdoria and Monza on loan.
“My wife convinced me to continue and not give up. If I could go back in time, I’d immediately hire a mental coach,” he said.
“I found one three years ago, and I can’t do without him now. You need the right balance; mental coaches are important, but footballers must trust them.”
Sensi also took inspiration from a book.
“I was talking to my friends about my situation when I heard about ‘Serve to Win’, the book in which Djokovic explained how much he suffered and how he managed to solve his physical problems,” he revealed.
“I bought it and read it. I saw a lot of myself in his story and started following his example. I ate only gluten-free, lactose-free foods and avoided sugar. Before long, I began to feel fit again and, in fact, my injuries became far less frequent.”
The 30-year-old was supposed to be in the Italy squad for the 2021 Euros, but a new injury forced Roberto Mancini to remove him from the team.
“I owe him [Mancini] so much. The national team is not for everyone, and Mancini called me up when I was still playing for Sassuolo,” Sensi concluded.
“He started me in place of Jorginho, and I immediately felt his trust. Unfortunately, I got injured in the final round of the season. The coach told me to go to Coverciano anyway, but I couldn’t recover in time, and I didn’t win the Euros.”
Refereeing supervisor Andrea Gervasoni spoke to investigators for four hours today and insists he is ‘100 per cent sure the VAR audio for Inter-Roma was not manipulated.’
So far there are also another four figures under investigation, all from the refereeing world, and the interrogations began today in Milan.
While Rocchi refused to attend, former referee and until recently VAR supervisor Gervasoni, who suspended himself following the investigation, did sit down for a four-hour meeting.
Gervasoni answers questions in referee investigation
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 03: Referee Andrea Gervasoni during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Marc’Antonio Bentegodi on November 3, 2013 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
He and his lawyer Michele Ducci confirmed that they were specifically asked about two matches.
“We talked about Salernitana-Modena, but we clarified that Gervasoni was in a different building. He was following Serie A, not Serie B games, so he did not interfere in any way.”
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 05: Yann Aurel Bisseck of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 05, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Another question was about the Inter-Roma match last season, when a penalty was not awarded to the Nerazzurri for Evan Ndicka’s shirt tug on Yann Bisseck.
“In this case too, we clarified that Gervasoni was not involved,” said his lawyer. “The footage also clarifies it. It all happens in 15 seconds, there wouldn’t even be time to intervene.
“They asked us a quick question about that and nothing more.”
The incident was shown on DAZN Italia television programme Open VAR, where the footage of the VAR is played with real time audio from the referee and those in the booth.
However, it’s reported the footage shown lasted only 37 seconds, missing 50-60 seconds from the original clip.
Gervasoni himself then spoke to the reporters about these allegations.
“I am 100 per cent sure the audio for Inter-Roma was not manipulated. But we didn’t see the clip today.”
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 17: Referee Andrea Gervasoni signals a foul during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 17, 2015 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
When it came to the supposed meeting at San Siro on April 2 where Rocchi is accused of colluding with unknown figures to make sure Daniele Doveri was not assigned to big Inter matches, Gervasoni’s lawyer distanced himself.
“That was not in the accusations and we did not talk about it, so I don’t know who was there on that April 2 meeting. We know nothing about the presumed favouritism for referees, because those were not put to us. We are not Rocchi.”
The refereeing world has been shaken in Italy by news that Rocchi is under formal investigation for sporting fraud, a move which prompted him to suspend himself as Serie A and B chief designator.
He was meant to speak to the investigators today, but along with his lawyer decided not to attend, claiming the terms of the accusation were too vague to mount a proper defence.
Rocchi denies wrongdoing
FLORENCE, ITALY – MAY 23: Gianluca Rocchi former Italian referee and referee designator for the Serie A and Serie B championships during the FIGC Hall of Fame Event on May 23, 2022 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“We work in only one way, so there are no big problems. I am transparent with everyone on everything,” he assured.
“I repeat, I always work exclusively in one way.”
Rocchi was asked if there ought to be more clarity on the way that the VAR system is run.
“I have always been clear, so it’s not like I have to promise something that I was already doing.”
Amongst other things, he is accused of assigning referees that Inter preferred rather than Daniele Doveri to their big games towards the end of last season, and of over-stepping the protocol by banging on the window of the VAR booth while decisions were being made.
The Associations of Italian footballers and coaches are expected to pick their candidate for the FIGC Presidential election today, with Giovanni Malagò reportedly favourite over Giancarlo Abete.
Today will be a key day in the FIGC Presidential election, even if the new Italian FA Chief will only be voted on June 22, 2026.
As reported by Gazzetta, the Associations of Italian footballers and coaches are expected to pick their favourite candidate today, Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Italian players and coaches to choose FIGC Presidential candidate
Both Malagò and Abete, who have yet to confirm they’ll run for the presidency officially, have already met the components taking part in the election in less than two months.
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY – MARCH 15: Giovanni Malago, President of the Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 delivers a speech during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympic Games closing ceremony at Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium on March 15, 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
Italian coach and player associations contribute 30% of the votes: coaches account for 20%, while players make up the remaining 10%.
According to the report, Malagò appears to be the favourite over Abete, who already served as the FIGC President between 2007 and 2014, when he resigned following Italy’s elimination from the World Cup played in Brazil.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Giancarlo Abete Former President of FIGC arrives at Gran Galà Del Calcio AlC 2025 on December 01, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Sara Cavallini/Getty Images)
Serie A clubs, who account for 18% of votes in the FIGC Presidential election, have already picked Malagò as their main candidate; while LND, who have chosen their President Abete, hold 34% of the votes.
Victory is determined when a candidate reaches the ‘absolute majority’, so half plus one of the total votes.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 03: Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool and Sunderland at Anfield on December 03, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The report claims that Slot already tried to sign Beukema at Feyenoord when the Dutch centre-back was playing for Go Ahead Eagles.
Slot has reportedly confirmed his admiration for Beukema to the Liverpool recruitment team, including sporting director Richard Hughes.
FLORENCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 13: Sam Beukema of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and SSC Napoli at Artemio Franchi on September 13, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Liverpool are expected to bolster their defence next summer, with Beukema among the names on their shortlist.
The Reds already secured defensive reinforcement from Serie A last summer by signing Giovanni Leoni from Parma.
The Italian defender has had an unfortunate debut season at Anfield, sustaining an ACL injury in his first game with the Reds.
Italy and Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero made Micah Richards burst out laughing before last night’s Champions League semi-final between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal: ‘Do you see my humble?’
There was a funny little exchange last night between Del Piero and Richard ahead of the Champions League semi-final first leg between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal.
The ex-Juventus and Italy striker initially spoke about a shirt swap with Thierry Henry after a 1998 Champions League semi-final between the Bianconeri and Monaco.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 05: Alessandro Del Piero looks on alongside The FIFA Club World Cup Trophy during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Draw at Telemundo Studios on December 05, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Brennan Asplen/Getty Images)
“I still have the shirt. Tity was already a big name everywhere, so it was a pleasure for me,” he said.
At that point, Richards asked Del Piero if he ever realised how much of a legend he is, and the ex-striker’s reply made everyone laugh.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 10: Former football player Alessandro Del Piero looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Real Madrid C.F. at Stadio di Bergamo on December 10, 2024 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Micah, do you see me humble?” Del Piero said, pointing at his outfit.
“Besides jokes, I always think you need to be humble, but that doesn’t mean you don’t understand who you are, where you are, and what you are doing and saying. We love to laugh, but also need to give people the right thought.”
Del Piero to Micah Richards: ‘Do you see me humble?’
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan are preparing for a major overhaul in central midfield, chasing Valencia’s Javi Guerra and Sassuolo’s Ismael Koné, while four midfielders, including Youssouf Fofana and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, are expected to leave.
Milan have continued to monitor promising Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra during the 2025-26 campaign, reports Gazzetta dello Sport.
Latest Milan transfer news: Guerra, Koné and more
Valencia’s Spanish midfielder #8 Javi Guerra celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Spanish Liga football match between Sevilla FC and Valencia CF at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Seville on August 11, 2023. (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER / AFP) (Photo by CRISTINA QUICLER/AFP via Getty Images)
The Spaniard was a Milan transfer target last summer, before he signed a new contract until 2029, but the Serie A giants have continued to scout him in the current campaign.
According to the report, Milan are also interested in Sassuolo and Canada midfielder Koné, scorer of six Serie A goals this season.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Ismael Kone’ of US Sassuolo celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Arena Garibaldi on January 31, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Gazzetta claims that Sassuolo might be interested in discussing a player-plus-cash swap involving either Christian Comotto, now on loan at Spezia, or Francesco Camarda.
Milan are expected to make significant changes to their central midfield over the summer, given that Fofana and Loftus-Cheek are likely to leave San Siro.
Warren Bondo, Ismael Bennacer and Yunus Musah will return after their loan spells, and while the first two will be put on the market, Musah could end up staying at Milan, mostly due to his versatility.
The Rossoneri will also wait for Luka Modric’s decision on his future and hope the Croatian star will agree to remain at the club for one more season.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Inter remain interested in Como talent Nico Paz, who is set to return to Real Madrid in the summer, but will only remain at the Bernabéu with the approval of the Merengues’ new coach.
Serie A giants Inter still hope to sign Argentine talent Nico Paz, despite his practically guaranteed return to Real Madrid in the summer.
The Merengues have an €11m buy-back option, which they intend to activate at the end of the season to bring back a product of their academy to the club.
COMO, ITALY – APRIL 12: Nico Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and FC Internazionale at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, Nico Paz’s stay at the Bernabéu for 2026-27 will depend on the new coach Real Madrid appoint in the summer.
José Mourinho is seen as a possible candidate for the job, so if the ex-Nerazzurri boss returns to the Bernabéu, he will inevitably be involved in Inter’s transfer plans, as he’ll have to decide whether to keep Paz in the team.
According to the report, Inter are determined to offer a paid loan deal with an option to buy and a buy-back option, or even a permanent transfer, but still leaving Real Madrid the option to re-sign the player in the future.
The Nerazzurri are preparing a transfer package worth between €40m and €50m and hope to persuade the Argentine talent also thanks to his father Pablo Paz, a close friend and former Argentina teammate of Inter’s vice-president Javier Zanetti
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti has personally called Bernardo Silva, hoping to persuade the Manchester City captain to move to Turin at the end of the season.
Spalletti in direct contact with Bernardo Silva over a possible Juventus move
Juventus coach Spalletti has reportedly reached out to Bernardo Silva over a potential move to the Allianz Stadium in the summer.
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 16: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City in action during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City at Molineux on August 16, 2025 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Negotiations between the Old Lady and the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, have been ongoing for weeks as Bernardo Silva’s contract with Manchester City expires at the end of the season, making him available for a free transfer in June.
According to the report, Spalletti has made a further step forward by personally contacting the Manchester City captain, who is also believed to be on the agenda of many other European clubs, including Benfica and Barcelona.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 19: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Allianz Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Gazzetta previously reported that Juventus had already offered Bernardo Silva a three-year contract worth €7m per season and that the Portugal international would only pick his next club at the end of the campaign, which sees his Manchester City side involved in the race for the Premier League title.
Serie A is gaining momentum across North America, especially in Canada, and interest in the Azzurri is rising just as quickly.
Jonathan David’s move to Juventus and Ismael Koné’s transfer to Sassuolo in the 2025 summer transfer window have only boosted the number of Serie A fans in Canada, a country that is also preparing to co-host the 2026 World Cup, the biggest football event ever staged.
The best way to watch Serie A football in Canada is through DAZN Canada or TLN TV, which shows three live Serie A fixtures every week.
Between the halves, many fans keep the excitement going by exploring the world-class slots and table games at https://charmius-canada.com, a premier destination for casino enthusiasts that also provides essential responsible gambling tools via its mobile app and browser.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The race for the Scudetto and the drama of historic rivalries in the Peninsula are attracting more and more viewers abroad, as Lega Serie A confirmed in 2025, reporting an unprecedented surge in popularity across the United States.
“Never before has Italian football been so widely accessible across the country. The upcoming CBS Main Network broadcast of Juventus-Genoa on March 29 is yet another key moment in our mission to bring Serie A to as many fans as possible,” Lega Serie A President Ezio Maria Simonelli said back then.
“It’s incredible to see how much it’s grown, with broadcasts and events like this bringing fans even closer to the game,” added 2006 Italy World Cup winner Andrea Pirlo, a former Milan and Juventus superstar.
The strong community of Italian-Canadians, primarily concentrated in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, have also had a chance to see many Italian stars in action in the MLS in recent years.
Sebastian Giovinco played for Toronto FC from 2015 to 2019, followed, a few years later, by Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne, two Italy Euro 2020 winners.
Another Italian legend, Alessandro Nesta, played for Montreal Impact in 2012-13 after a successful Serie A career with Lazio and Milan, during which he had won three Serie A titles and two Champions League titles.
The former defender moved to the USA after hanging up his boots, becoming the coach of Miami FC from 2015 to 17. He then returned to Italy to take charge of Perugia, Frosinone, Reggiana and Monza.
epa00998510 Defender Alessandro Nesta of AC Milan celebrate the victory at the end of the Champions League second leg semifinal match against Manchester United in Milan’s San Siro-Giuseppe Meazza stadium late 02 May 2007. AC Milan won 3-0 and acceeds to the final match against Liverpool which will be played in Athens on 23 May. EPA/ETTORE FERRARI
Surely, there’s plenty of connection between Italian football and Canada, not just because over 1,500,000 Canadians (4.3% of the total population) have reported full or partial Italian ancestry, but also because of the many stars moving between the two countries to play the beautiful game.
Too bad that the two national teams’ proposed meeting in the 2026 World Cup Group B will never happen, as the Azzurri have failed to qualify for the competition for the third time in a row.
Italy legend Roberto Baggio has officially launched his TikTok account with a humorous juggling clip that ends with what appears to be an unfortunate glass-breaking mishap.
Italy legend Baggio has officially joined TikTok, reaching over 200,000 followers in just a few hours.
Baggio’s first video on the platform shows him juggling the ball, but the ending is not the one most fans would expect.
After the ex-striker kicks the ball, the sound of breaking glass can be heard. At that moment, Baggio turns to the camera and says, “From today, I’m on TikTok too.”
Italian former football player Roberto Baggio (R) and Argentine-born Italian former football player, David Trezeguet (L) gesture before the beginning of the Argentina 2023 U-20 World Cup final match between Uruguay and Italy at the Estadio Unico Diego Armando Maradona stadium in La Plata, Argentina, on June 11, 2023. (Photo by Alejandro PAGNI / AFP) (Photo by ALEJANDRO PAGNI/AFP via Getty Images)
As reported by Repubblica, Baggio’s first video has already reached two million views and over 500,000 likes.
Baggio’s first TikTok video
“Ciao ragazzi! Da oggi sono anche io su TikTok”.
Così l’ex calciatore Roberto Baggio saluta i fan e inaugura il suo nuovo profilo sulla nota piattaforma social. Nel breve video ironico pubblicato, si vede il ‘Divin codino’ palleggiare e poi calciare il pallone. Sul finale,… pic.twitter.com/fxxI6mLofe
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