BORAS, SWEDEN – OCTOBER 3: IF Elfsborg head coach Oscar Hiljemark gives a press conference after the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between IF Elfsborg and AS Roma at Boras Arena on October 3, 2024 in Boras, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)
The 33-year-old had been identified as the ideal replacement once Gilardino was dismissed, for amassing just one Serie A victory all season, 11 draws and 11 defeats.
Hiljemark must first terminate his contract by mutual consent with Elfsborg, having taken the job in June 2024 and with a deal that runs to December 2027.
Before that, he had a brief experience on the bench of Aalborg BK.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Cesare Prandelli new head coach of Genoa speak with Oscar Hiljemark during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SPAL at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on December 9, 2018 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Rattini/Getty Images)
The Swede is no stranger to Italian football, as he played in Serie A for much of his career as a midfielder with Palermo and Genoa from 2015 to 2019.
He hung up his boots at Aalborg in 2021 and immediately went into management as an assistant, then taking charge in March 2023.
TRENTO, ITALY – JULY 22: Ishak Belfodil (L) of Internazionale Milano competes with Nicolas Giani (R) of Vicenza Calcio during the pre-season friendly match between FC Internazionale Milano and Vicenza Calcio on July 22, 2013 in Pinzolo near Trento, Italy. (Photo by Dino Panato/Getty Images)
Giani had started his career as part of the Inter youth academy, going on to play for Cremonese, Pro Patria, Vicenza, Perugia, SPAL, Spezia, Feralpisalò and Desenzano.
The centre-back was most closely associated with SPAL, who he represented from 2014 to 2017, becoming their captain during their climb to Serie A.
Giani never managed a single top flight game during his career, but had 181 in Serie B with five goals and four assists, plus over 200 in Serie C.
He had caps for Italy at Under-18 and Under-19 level.
Gian Piero Gasperini felt ‘luck was not on our side’ as Roma capitulated 1-0 to Udinese, but he welcomes the arrival of Donyell Malen and Bryan Zaragoza amid ‘difficulties’ on the transfer market.
The Giallorossi were ultimately undone by a deflection off Donyell Malen in the defensive wall, which gave Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s free kick an extra spin to surprise Mile Svilar at the far top corner.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Roma players surround the referee after Cristante’s goal is ruled out during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“We lacked precision in the final third, were unlucky by a few centimetres at the end and the goal we conceded showed luck was not on our side this evening.
“Nonetheless, we leave with our heads held high, and with the strength to keep improving ourselves.”
There were two big chances to equalise in stoppages, but Kostas Tsimikas was offside on the Bryan Cristante goal, then Maduka Okoye fingertipped the Gianluca Mancini toe-poke off the line.
However, there was precious little else upfront, so why the lack of scoring opportunities created?
“It was a very closed match, they too only had a couple of long-range attempts, otherwise it was difficult for both teams to build something. We were looking to do more and we didn’t manage it, but when you have five or six men in the box, that is a chance, even if we didn’t get the finish away. I feel like we did more in that sense.”
Gasperini expected fewer problems for Roma transfers
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, looks on before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Roma have been busy in the transfer window, bringing in Malen, Robinio Vaz and today Bryan Zaragoza on loan with option to buy from Bayern Munich.
They also sent Leon Bailey back to Aston Villa midway through his loan spell.
“The transfer market is closed, now we have four months and I didn’t realise we’d have so much difficulty introducing players in roles that we had been trying to fill since the summer,” noted Gasperini when asked how happy he was with the club’s transfer strategy.
“Evidently there were a lot of difficulties. Now we have Malen and Zaragoza, who will certainly give us a hand, then some very young players. We’ll try to do our best.”
Are there any regrets or a player that he would’ve wanted to bring in at Roma?
“There were dozens of names mentioned in the media, but I’m glad we managed to get Malen and Zaragoza. I realise it’s never easy to do business in the January window, but these two players will certainly help. There are also youngsters like Venturino and Vaz who represent the future, but we cannot think they are competitive right now for such high ambitions.
“The most important thing is getting players like Manu Kone and Paulo Dybala back from injury, as this is a group that does not give up.”
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Bryan Cristante of Roma scores a goal which is ruled out during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
This result means that Roma slipped out of the top four and into fifth place, now two points behind Juventus.
They have now amassed just two draws in the last three competitive matches, held 1-1 by Milan and in the Europa League by Panathinaikos.
“These are difficult places to play, you can win or lose, we’ve seen that throughout the season.”
Napoli coach Antonio Conte complained that there are now far too many matches and they are damaging the health of players, so how does Gasperini reflect on that?
“This is the football system now, there are more tournaments and therefore more games. The only negative aspect is that 90 per cent of the injuries happen during matches, rarely in training, and there’s probably a reason for that,” replied the Roma coach.
“There have always been injuries, but there are double now because there are double the number of matches. The big problem is that with technology we have not been able to shorten the recovery time, although the tests are more precise in identifying injuries early. When you play more, there is a greater risk of injury, that’s just statistical probability.”
Roma saw their positive run of Serie A games ended by a surprise 1-0 defeat to Udinese, as Jurgen Ekkelenkamp’s deflected free kick proved decisive.
The Giallorossi played for 75 minutes down to 10 men on Thursday, but still earned a 1-1 draw with Panathinaikos to enter the Europa League last 16. Mario Hermoso returned, but Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy missed the trip. The Friulani lost Alessandro Zanoli for the rest of the season to a torn ACL, with Adam Buksa, Hassane Kamara and Jakub Piotrowski also injured. Ex-Roma man Nicolò Zaniolo was back on the bench for the first time since knee surgery.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, reacts during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Mile Svilar needed two big saves in the opening minutes, first on Arthur Atta’s long-range strike, then doing the same on Jurgen Ekkelenkamp from even further out, with Oumar Solet unable to keep the rebound down.
Gianluca Mancini sprinted back and at full stretch toe-poked the Keinan Davis roll across away from Ekkelenkamp, who was ready to tap in from six yards.
Donyell Malen had a weak effort saved by Maduka Okoye on the Matias Soulé counter-attack, as Udinese continued to have the better of the game with Liam Miller also blasting just over the bar and Evan Ndicka’s decisive interception to prevent Davis going clear.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Evan Ndicka of Roma clashes with Keinan Davis of Udinese during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Soulé floated a free kick off target and after the restart Wesley’s cross-shot was parried at the near post by Okoye’s legs.
However, it was Udinese who took the lead moments later when Ekkelenkamp’s free kick took a big deflection off Malen in the wall to loop up past a helpless Svilar into the far top corner. Roma were furious, as they felt Mancini had not committed a foul to give away that free kick.
The good luck did not last long, because moments later Davis pulled up clutching his left thigh and had to limp off, visibly distraught at this latest injury setback.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Maduka Okoye of Udinese makes a save at a shot from Donyell Malen of Roma during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Malen’s free kick was straight into the wall, then his effort was deflected wide by Thomas Kristensen after a poor clearance.
Svilar had to palm a tricky Ekkelenkamp free kick out from under the bar, this time without a deflection, but Roma had the ball in the net at the 90th minute with Bryan Cristante only after Kostas Tsimikas wandered offside for the acrobatic assist.
Roma threatened again at the 97th minute, Okoye at full stretch to fingertip the ball off the line after a Mancini toe-poke from six yards.
The transfer window has closed in Serie A, but the clubs can still sell players, as Lazio sold Matias Vecino to Celta Vigo, while Nuno Tavares is still on the market.
The Biancocelesti made a lot of changes in the January session, having been banned from signing any new players over the summer due to the transfer embargo.
They also whittled down the options who no longer fit with coach Maurizio Sarri’s project.
Lazio part with Matias Vecino
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Matias Vecino of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Friuli on December 27, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
His contract only had a few months left to run at the Stadio Olimpico, as he arrived in the summer of 2022 and went on to make 128 competitive appearances, scoring 13 goals.
ROME, ITALY – MAY 25: Santiago Pierotti of US Lecce challenges Nuno Tavares of Lazio during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on May 25, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio aren’t done yet, as Nuno Tavares remains on the market, with Besiktas and Benfica interested in potentially picking up the injury-prone full-back.
Meanwhile, they have officially signed Blaz Kovac from NS Mura.
Udinese have officially signed Branimir Mlacic from Hajduk Split for a reported fee of €4.5m, just days after he had been on the verge of a move to Inter.
The central defender had been in advanced negotiations with Inter and the two clubs had shaken hands on an agreement last week.
epa11683268 Udineses supporters cheer during the Italian Serie A soccer match Udinese Calcio vs Cagliari Calcio at the Friuli – Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, Italy, 25 October 2024. EPA-EFE/GABRIELE MENIS
It was a chaotic transfer deadline day for Fiorentina striker Christian Kouame, who was close to Cagliari, then signed for Verona, but the contract was incomplete and rejected.
The 28-year-old Ivory Coast international is only under contract with the Viola until June 2027 and made just four competitive appearances for the club so far this season.
epa11746512 Fiorentina’s Foward Christian Kouame scores during the UEFA Europa Conference League match ACF Fiorentina vs Pafos at Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence, Italy, 28 November 2024. EPA-EFE/CLAUDIO GIOVANNINI
In the final hour of the January transfer window in Serie A, Kouame had been seemingly on the verge of a move to Cagliari, only for that to be abandoned.
He was meant to be the replacement for Zito Luvumbo, who will be loaned to Mallorca with option to buy at the end of the season.
SALERNO, ITALY – APRIL 21: Christian Kouamé of ACF Fiorentina scores his sides first goal during the Serie A TIM match between US Salernitana and ACF Fiorentina TIM at Stadio Arechi on April 21, 2024 in Salerno, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Instead, Hellas Verona came in with a proposal and they had put pen to paper on the loan move, depositing it with the Lega Serie A in the final moments before the deadline.
It is now likely that Kouame will either terminate his contract by mutual respect and therefore become a free agent, or try to find a new club in one of the leagues where the transfer market is still open.
ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 fans show their support during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It had seemed as if they might not get the paperwork completed in time, but the contract was registered with the Lega Serie A, having only moments to spare.
A product of the Hammarby youth academy, the teenage midfielder will join Como and work with coach Cesc Fabregas.
The Serie A high fliers also completed a few other deals on deadline day, as Patrick Cutrone moved to Monza on loan, Fellipe Jack to Catanzaro, Tommaso Fumagalli to Reggiana and Jacopo Simonetta to Siracusa.
Inter have officially purchased midfielder Yanis Massolin for a reported fee of €8m including add-ons, but he will remain on loan at Modena for the rest of the season.
The 23-year-old creative midfielder can also play out wide on the right of attack.
Inter secure Massolin for their future
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
It is a big investment for the Nerazzurri, who see him as the future of their midfield with players like Hakan Calhanoglu and Henrikh Mkhitaryan getting older.
Massolin has French and Martinique citizenship, with experiences already in Switzerland, France and Belgium before Modena bought him for €700,000 in July 2025.
He made 15 competitive appearances this season between Serie A and the Coppa Italia, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
It is reported the formal fee for Inter is €3.5m, but with various performance-related bonuses it can rise to €8m.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on 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)
The Giallorossi are fresh from a 1-1 draw against Milan and secured their spot in the Europa League Round of 16 thanks to Thursday’s 1-1 result away to Panathinaikos, despite being down to 10 men.
Gian Piero Gasperini must do without Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone, Evan Ferguson, Artem Dovbyk and Stephan El Shaarawy.
However, Mario Hermoso returns to the squad, with January signings Malen and Robinio Vaz available.
Gianluca Mancini was sent off early into that Europa League game, so will be eager to make up for it.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 15: Matias Soule of AS Roma gestures during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Como 1907 at Stadio Olimpico on December 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Udinese are comfortably mid-table and could even push their way into the top 10 with a success here.
Alessandro Zanoli was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, so he is out for the rest of the season.
He joins Adam Buksa, Hassane Kamara and Jakub Piotrowski on the treatment table, but ex-Roma star Nicolò Zaniolo returns to the bench for the first time since knee surgery last month.
Atta and Davis lead the attack, with Jurgen Ekkelenkamp in support following the victory away to Verona.
Roma have won their last six consecutive Serie A meetings with Udinese, home and away, since a 4-0 defeat here in September 2022.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Keinan Davis of Udinese celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and US Lecce at Stadio Friuli on October 25, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The 22-year-old continues his tour of Europe, struggling to settle at any club for very long.
The Chelsea youth academy product had joined Juventus for €1.88m in 2020, then was sold to Aston Villa in July 2024 for a fee of €14m as part of the Douglas Luiz deal.
Iling-Junior back in Serie A for Pisa
Samuel Iling Junior of Bologna during the Coppa Italia match between Bologna FC and AC Monza at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
However, he was immediately sent back to Serie A on loan for Bologna, which was interrupted in February 2025 and re-routed towards Middlesbrough.
It happened again this term, as Iling-Junior was loaned to West Bromwich Albion, but that has been cut short for another loan move.
This time he is returning to Serie A for rock bottom Pisa, who just sacked coach Alberto Gilardino last night and are currently without a tactician.
Louis Buffon, son of Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi, in action for Serie B side Pisa.
Oscar Hiljemark is expected to take over as soon as he terminates his contract with Elfsborg.
Sassuolo have been one of the most active Serie A sides on deadline day, buying Ismael Kone outright from Olympique Marseille, signing Ulisses Garcia and Darryl Bakola from the same club.
The Neroverdi are comfortably mid-table following promotion from Serie B last summer, but are nonetheless eager to reinforce the squad in the final hours of the January transfer window.
Ulisses Garcia joins Sassuolo from Olympique Marseille
They activated their existing €13m option to buy Kone outright from Olympique Marseille, getting it done early to reward the Canada international for his performances so far this season.
The 23-year-old midfielder had an obligation to buy if they secured their Serie A status, after the initial €2.5m loan.
That was one of three deals done with Olympique Marseille this evening.
Sassuolo also snapped up left-back Ulisses Garcia, who just turned 30 last month and has 11 senior caps for Switzerland.
There is believed to be an option to buy at the end of the season for €3m.
Darryl Bakola joins Sassuolo from Olympique Marseille
The left-sided attacking winger is Brazilian, but also has Tunisian citizenship.
There are still some doubts over the precise figures, but Sky Sport Italia claim this evening that the total cost would reach €19m rather than €23m, although there might be further add-ons.
Alisson Santos comes to Serie A for Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with David Neres of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
He came to Europe for Leiria in 2024 and EC Vitoria sold him to Sporting CP in July 2025 at a cost of €2.1m.
His profile soared over the last six months thanks to three goals and three assists in 31 competitive games for Sporting CP.
Curiously, all his goals were scored in the Champions League.
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with Leonardo Spinazzola of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Agent Giuseppe Riso confirms Nottingham Forest and ‘Lazio made an approach’ for Inter midfielder Davide Frattesi, but ‘Liverpool wouldn’t let Curtis Jones go’ and blocked his exit.
The Italy international had been seemingly on the verge of leaving San Siro in the January transfer window after struggling to get regular playing time.
epa12078784 FC Inter’s Davide Frattesi (R) celebrates scoring the 4-3 goal during the UEFA Champions League semifinal 2nd leg soccer match between Inter Milan and FC Barcelona, in Milan, Italy, 06 May 2025. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANI
“There was an approach from Lazio, but then Liverpool wouldn’t let Jones go, so at the end of the day it all ground to a halt,” confessed agent Riso on Sky Sport Italia.
“Frattesi won’t go to Nottingham Forest either. Inter don’t want to be deprived of his experience at this moment and did not want to go any further in talks.”
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 13: Curtis Jones of Liverpool in action during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on December 13, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Cremonese goalkeeper Emil Audero released a video message thanking everyone for their ‘affection’ after he was hit by a firework thrown by Inter fans. ‘I feel relieved, as it could’ve been a lot worse.’
Audero recognises he was lucky not to get badly hurt
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“Hello everyone, this is simply a message to thank everyone who wrote to me to ask how I was. I’m fine, although I had a strong pain in my ear and a burning sensation in my knee,” explained the shot-stopper.
“I managed to train today and feel relieved, because having seen the footage, it could’ve really been a lot worse. I’m glad that it went well, despite it all.
“Unfortunately, these things still happen, but I hope they will stop in future. I thank all those who wrote to me and send a hug.”
Sandro Tonali’s agent Beppe Riso denies reports he offered the Newcastle United player to Arsenal, but left the door open to Juventus. ‘We’ll evaluate it in March.’
There had been rumours that the Gunners were in talks for the midfielder in the January transfer window, but that Newcastle slammed the door shut immediately.
Claims Tonali pushing for Newcastle exit
FLORENCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Gianluigi Donnarumma and Sandro Tonali of Italy arrive during an Italy Training Session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on September 05, 2023 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
Now The Athletic claim that it was Tonali’s agent who made the approach to Arsenal director Andrea Berta and proposed the potential move.
“I read it, but Newcastle won’t let Sandro leave in January, and we never talked to Arsenal about this,” said Tonali’s representative.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 11: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Chelsea FC at St James’ Park on May 11, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
“We will evaluate in March whether Newcastle are open to anything, but right now he is playing in the Champions League, it is not the right moment to talk about it.”
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – OCTOBER 01: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between R. Union Saint-Gilloise and Newcastle United FC at RSC Anderlecht Stadium on October 01, 2025 in Brussels, Belgium. (Photo by Omar Havana/Getty Images)
This would open up a scenario where the Azzurri star is actively seeking a new club beyond the Magpies, who he joined from Milan for €60.8m plus add-ons in 2023.
His current contract with Newcastle United only runs to June 2028, and Milan are owed a 10 per cent cut of his future sale fee.
Tonali has 35 competitive appearances for the Premier League side so far this season, contributing five assists.
That will become an obligation if certain sporting conditions are met, specifically Champions League qualification and a specific number of appearances made by the player.
MADRID, SPAIN – DECEMBER 07: Bryan Zaragoza of RC Celta Vigo looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on December 07, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Zaragoza is a versatile attacking player, able to work on the left, the right, or in a more central trequartista role.
He came through the Granada youth academy, moving to Bayern Munich in 2024 for a total fee of €17m.
The 31-year-old defender completed the transfer this afternoon, with just hours to spare before the deadline.
It is believed that the cost of the six-month loan is €500,000 and the option to buy is worth a further €2m.
This will become an obligation if certain conditions are met, which Sky Sport Italia maintain are Fiorentina managing to avoid relegation into Serie B.
New Serie A experience for Rugani
LEWISBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – JUNE 14: Daniele Rugani #24 Juventus arrives at the airport prior to the official FIFA Club World Cup 2025 on June 14, 2025 in Lewisburg, West Virginia. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)
Rugani was a product of the Empoli and Juventus youth academies, also going out on loan to Stade Rennes, Cagliari and Ajax.
The centre-back had managed eight appearances for Juventus this season between Serie A and the Champions League.
He amassed 177 Serie A games in his career, winning five Scudetto titles, four editions of the Coppa Italia and two of the Supercoppa Italiana.
Play was temporarily halted at the Stadio Giovanni Zini when a loud explosion was heard and smoke filled the air, as a firework thrown from the away end filled with Inter supporters hit Audero.
He was able to recover and continue the game, despite a small cut and burn mark on his leg.
Inter fans turned on ‘lone wolf’ responsible
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
When a few minutes later, another loud explosion was heard, this time the firework did not land near any players.
A scuffle erupted inside the away end, where the majority of Inter supporters were furious with this outsider, who they felt was risking the suspension of the match as well as being a genuine danger to the players.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Referee Davide Massa talks to the players including Francesco Pio Esposito during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
However, La Gazzetta dello Sport and the Corriere della Sera newspapers claim that the person responsible was identified because he turned up at the hospital in Cremona with a hand injury, having damaged three of his own fingers.
He will be arrested and banned from attending stadiums, but it remains to be seen how the authorities will react, potentially banning all Nerazzurri fans from away matches.
President Beppe Marotta tried to get ahead of the situation by publicly condemning the hooligan responsible and apologising to Cremonese.
Lazio midfielder Matias Vecino is reportedly on his way to join Celta Vigo, which could in turn stall Reda Belahyane’s move to Verona, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was targeted by Bournemouth.
ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma argues with Reda Belahyane of SS Lazio the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)
The 34-year-old is only under contract until June 30, although there is also an option to extend at the end of the season.
He joined the club as a free agent from Inter in the summer of 2022 and made only 14 competitive appearances this term, contributing two assists.
If the Uruguay international does go to Celta Vigo, it means the Serie A side might not therefore release Belahyane for his agreed move to Hellas Verona.
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of SS Lazio celebrates a opening goal during the Serie match between Lazio and Atalanta at Stadio Olimpico on December 28, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
This is because it would leave coach Maurizio Sarri short-staffed in midfield if both were to move on at the same time.
Meanwhile, LaLazioSiamoNoi also report that the Biancocelesti turned down a proposal from Bournemouth for midfielder Dele-Bashiru, a loan with option to buy set at €18m.
Luciano Spalletti explains Pierre Kalulu’s positioning at Juventus, reveals a Kenan Yildiz fitness problem, and assures they ‘don’t want Mauro Icardi’ from Galatasaray.
Parma only managed to find the back of the net thanks to a comical Andrea Cambiaso own goal on Alessandro Circati’s cross, while Lois Openda’s effort in stoppages was ruled offside.
Spalletti keeps Juventus on their toes
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It is better not to look at statistics, as often those come from static situations that do not influence the result, as football is more about sudden changes of pace, duels and second balls, that is where you get into the real game. Whoever is more wide awake there can win the match,” Spalletti told DAZN Italia.
In their post-match interview, Gleison Bremer and Weston McKennie called the coach ‘unique’ and said they’d never worked with anyone quite like him.
“If they said that, naturally it is pleasing. What is fundamental for me is having a rapport with a team that wants to enjoy its football, because that is how you unleash the quality we saw today. They must never be disconnected from the match, so always plugged in and ready for the next situation.
“Every game is a step for us to learn, and it is never definitive, it is a process that keeps going. In any case, I told them they shouldn’t compliment me, but instead praise their teammates. This group has the potential to be a great team, thanks also to that unity and enjoyment they have in training and in a match situation. They combine enthusiasm with determination, no matter what you ask of them.”
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Pierre Kalulu pushes forward a lot in Spalletti’s Juventus down the right flank, not dissimilar to Giovanni Di Lorenzo at Napoli, and provided the assist for McKennie’s volley.
“This position is crucial to give alternatives and create some chaos in the marking of the opposition team. He has this ability to start runs at the right time. A team must have this ability to go from tight to stretched out in a moment, knowing when to play short and when to go long,” noted Spalletti.
“As you mentioned Di Lorenzo, I want to send him my best wishes to return to the field as soon as possible, because he deserves all the best. When I saw him hurt like that, it pained all of us. He is the master at that positioning between the lines, he is a complete player, and Kalulu is getting to that level too. He dictates the tempo for his teammates.”
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Kenan Yildiz was rested midweek in the Champions League 0-0 draw away to AS Monaco and started this evening, but went off at half-time after complaining of muscular issues.
“Yildiz told us during the first half he felt a bit of pain, but he could make it to half-time,” explained Spalletti.
“We trusted him, but he now has a bit of pain even when walking, so we have to evaluate it, but it shouldn’t be too serious. I think it’ll be tough to get him ready for Thursday.”
The transfer deadline is tomorrow and Juve have already snapped up two players today, securing Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice on loan and Emil Holm from Bologna in an exchange with Joao Mario.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Carlos Cuesta, Head Coach of Parma Calcio 1913, and Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, talk prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“I get asked about Icardi and Osimhen in a press conference, so I can only speak highly of Icardi as a player when he was in my team,” explained Spalletti.
“There were other situations that he took into the locker room that were about his home life and didn’t belong in the locker room, so I had to talk to him. When you are in a dressing room, you cannot keep the door open to let in other matters.
“I had to make a decision then, and I decided to exclude him, so he had a reaction based on that. He is a good lad, a lovely person, and a fantastic striker. But we don’t want Icardi. Is that ok?
“If I speak highly of someone then it goes all over the headlines that I want to sign him, but it’s not true. We are looking for a player with specific characteristics, if we don’t find him, then we’ll stay as we are. After all, McKennie is as good a hitman as anyone, you saw him again tonight.”
Gleison Bremer and Weston McKennie were full of praise for Luciano Spalletti after Juventus swept Parma aside 4-1. ‘He’s unique, I never in my career worked with a coach like this.’
The Bianconeri are keeping themselves in the thick of the race for a top four finish, further boosted by Como and Atalanta holding each other to a 0-0 draw earlier today.
They ran riot at the Stadio Tardini with a rare Bremer brace, acrobatic Weston McKennie finish, and Jonathan David tapping in at the back post.
Parma’s only goal was also scored by a Juve player, as Andrea Cambiaso accidentally put the Alessandro Circati cross into his own net.
Bremer and McKennie impressed by Spalletti
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Francisco Conceicao during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It’s a wonderful sensation to score goals, especially as I was out for basically a year and that was tough. I feel better, the leg is responding, and I am glad to help the team, what counts is that we won,” Bremer told DAZN Italia.
It’s a completely different team under Spalletti, as since his arrival they amassed 30 Serie A points, fewer only than Inter’s 37 during the same period.
“The coach is very strong, you can see that he totally changed the way we play. Even when we win, he tries to keep us on our toes. We are still missing something, he always says so, but we’re on the right track.
“This is certainly the best Juventus spirit I’ve experienced here. I only felt this kind of positivity at the start under Motta, but then I got injured.
“Spalletti arrived with his mentality and you can see the difference he makes,” concluded Bremer.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Weston McKennie of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juventus scored seven goals in their last two Serie A games, having also crushed Napoli 3-0 last week, but in the Champions League only managed a dull 0-0 away to AS Monaco midweek.
There were two different goal celebrations involving McKennie, one was shaking hands with all his teammates like an introduction, the other was shuffling along in a line.
“We work on the wall in training, so that’s what the celebration was, taking those steps,” McKennie told DAZN Italia.
“Spalletti is unique, as I have never in my career worked with a coach like this. He is so good, works with the team spirit, I’m really happy and I think everyone here is happy to be working with him.”
Juventus celebrated a rare Gleison Bremer brace, along with Weston McKennie and Jonathan David efforts around a comical Andrea Cambiaso own goal to beat Parma 4-1.
The Bianconeri thumped Napoli 3-0 and booked their place in the Champions League play-offs after a midweek 0-0 draw away to Monaco, with Dusan Vlahovic, Arek Milik and Daniele Rugani still injured. The Ducali failed to score in their last three games, although they were 0-0 with Napoli and Genoa before a 4-0 hammering by Atalanta. Zion Suzuki, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Matija Frigan, Lautaro Valenti and Pontus Almqvist missed out, with new signing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia starting on his debut.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus is challenged by Emanuele Valeri and Mandela Keita of Parma Calcio 1913 during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Francisco Conceicao nearly scored twice in the opening six minutes, as first he forced a desperate Edoardo Corvi save on a Pierre Kalulu assist from the right, then he smashed his finish onto the underside of the bar from seven yards on a Weston McKennie pull-back.
The deadlock was broken when Francisco Conceicao’s corner found Bremer for a bullet header into the near bottom corner from seven yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Conceicao kept pushing, as Enrico Delprato got back just in time to prevent him tapping in the Jonathan David pull-back, but McKennie was booked and a VAR silent check conducted for potential red over his high boot on Mariano Troilo’s ankle.
Emanuele Valeri surged forward and Michele Di Gregorio was at full stretch to fingertip the daisy-cutter round the far post.
Instead, Juventus doubled their lead when Kalulu stood up a cross from the right for McKennie’s acrobatic right-foot volley from eight yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Weston McKennie of Juventus scores his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Parma kept pushing, as Gaetano Oristanio’s scorcher from distance stung Di Gregorio’s gloves, but Kenan Yildiz was struggling with a muscular issue and made way for Fabio Miretti at half-time.
Juve literally gifted the hosts a way back into the game with a comical own goal from Andrea Cambiaso. He anticipated Sascha Britschgi on the Alessandro Circati cross from the left and bizarrely flicked it off the outside of the boot into his net from six yards.
PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Andrea Cambiaso of Juventus scores an own goal and Parma Calcio 1913 first goal, during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Ducali barely had time to celebrate when Juventus had restored their two-goal cushion in chaotic fashion. A free kick was taken short, McKennie’s attempt ricocheted off the bar, David’s looping header was probably going in anyway, but Bremer got the final touch just to be sure.
A fourth arrived a few minutes later, as Corvi was late getting down to a Conceicao angled drive and only fingertipped it into the path of David to tap in at the back stick. It’s the second game in a row where Parma conceded four goals.
Lois Openda and Mateo Pellegrino glancing headers whistled wide late on. Openda had the ball in the net with an angled drive, but only after wandering offside.
Pellegrino also forced another tricky save from Di Gregorio in stoppages after turning Federico Gatti.
Parma 1-4 Juventus
Bremer 15, 54 (J), McKennie 37 (J), Cambiaso og 51 (P), David 64 (J)
The USMNT midfielder has been used in numerous different roles so far this season, and is currently flourishing in a more advanced midfield role supporting the striker.
McKennie on target again for Juventus
Lovely finish from Weston McKennie as his acrobatic finish gives Juve a 2 goal lead now in Parma
He confirmed his eye for goal by meeting the Pierre Kalulu cross from the right with his right foot from eight yards to surprise Edoardo Corvi at the Stadio Tardini this evening.
This takes his goal tally for the season to six, along with four assists between Serie A, the Champions League and Cppa Italia.
Juve had already been 1-0 up thanks to the Gleison Bremer header on a Francisco Conceicao corner.
Brilliant header from Juventus' central defender Bremer puts them 1-0 ahead at Parma
Cristian Chivu is impressed with Inter’s ‘maturity’ after a 2-0 victory away to Cremonese and reiterates Davide Frattesi will not join Nottingham Forest.
The Nerazzurri had the result under lock and key by half-time thanks to a Lautaro Martinez free header on Federico Dimarco’s corner, and Piotr Zielinski’s long-range strike that swerved under the bar.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Fortunately, he was only shaken, and could finish the game, albeit with a cut and a burn mark on his leg.
Chivu proud of Inter concentration in Cremona
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
“I saw maturity in understanding the right moments of the match, and the ways of getting to the victory,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.
“In terms of dominating the game, we were always in charge, although they didn’t allow us very much. We were a little slow in moving the ball around, because we lacked energy to attack their deep defensive lines, but then we went in front before half-time.
“It was a little more relaxed after the break, as obviously some fatigue set in, but the important thing was to win and we did it.”
Davide Frattesi was given a rare start in midfield, as Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Denzel Dumfries and Carlos Augusto were out of action.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
There had been reports Frattesi was close to joining Nottingham Forest, but President Beppe Marotta assured he has not asked to leave Inter.
“Frattesi is an Inter player and for me he is an important figure in the squad,” added Chivu.
“He has to prove it on the field and in training, because we trust his qualities. We need him in great shape for the final months of the season, so that he can give us that something extra that at times we are missing in some games.”
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Inter solidify their status as Serie A leaders, opening up an eight-point lead waiting for second-placed Milan to play against Bologna on Tuesday evening.
Antonio Conte and Luciano Spalletti have been complaining that there are too many games in modern football, so what is Chivu’s take on the situation?
“The decisions I made in the past to rotate reflect what you said. I allowed rest days before big matches and was criticised in the media for that.
“There are many games, it increases the risk of injury, but when we are in that many tournaments, it is a risk we have to accept.
“I do not complain, but what I will say is that I can’t wait for the transfer window to close,” concluded Chivu.
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini has ‘ruled out’ any pursuit of Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi and seemingly abandoned Randal Kolo Muani too, as Jeremie Boga and Emil Holm arrive.
Their trip to Parma kicks off at the Stadio Tardini at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The transfer deadline is on Monday evening, and Juve are still very active on the market, especially when it comes to the pursuit of attacking options.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Former Juventus player Giorgio Chiellini looks on prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We were looking for someone who could give Yildiz an occasional rest and be of use over the next few games,” Chiellini told DAZN Italia.
“Boga knows Serie A well, he can make the difference both off the bench and when starting, but is coming off an injury and will take a while to get into his best shape.
“Holm is a reliable full-back, Serie A is difficult and different to Portuguese football, so Joao Mario had a few problems adapting and Bologna represent an opportunity for him. Holm brings more physicality and extra resources.”
Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.
There are reports they are also targeting Icardi of Galatasaray in case Tottenham won’t release Kolo Muani early from the Paris Saint-Germain loan agreement.
“Vlahovic will be back in a while, but unfortunately not soon enough, so we have been looking for a striker who can fit in with the requests of the coach and also with our financial situation,” explained Chiellini.
“Mauro Icardi emerged because of what the coach said in his press conference, as he was referring to him and Victor Osimhen as examples of great strikers, but there was nothing more than that. I can rule out any pursuit of Icardi.
“As for the other names that have been rumoured, we’ll not forget that Dusan will return in about a month and a half, so we’ll see what happens.”
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 25: Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Istanbulspor at Rams Park on January 25, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta had also been linked, but is now on the verge of joining Milan.
“Mateta is a player we evaluated, but decided not to proceed for the costs and risks. Kolo Muani is a Tottenham player, that is the truth of the matter.”
The Bianconeri surged up the standings with last week’s 3-0 victory over Napoli and booked their spot in the Champions League play-offs following a 0-0 draw at AS Monaco.
Inter comfortably swept Cremonese aside 2-0 with Lautaro Martinez and Piotr Zielinski goals, but there was a scare when Emil Audero was struck by a firework.
The Nerazzurri beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in Germany on Wednesday, though it was not enough to avoid the Champions League play-offs. Carlos Augusto joined Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries on the treatment table. The hosts managed just three draws in eight games, failing to score for the last three in a row. Tommaso Barbieri was suspended, with Martin Payero, Antonio Sanabria, Warren Bondo, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo injured, so Youssef Maleh was thrown straight into the starting XI.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Petar Sucic fired just over and Lautaro Martinez turned wide from distance after Cremonese struggled playing out from the back, but Inter broke the deadlock when Lautaro Martinez was allowed a surprisingly free header from six yards on Federico Dimarco’s corner. It was his 128th Serie A goal for Inter and he celebrated with a message for his daughter’s birthday.
Federico Ceccherini drilled wide from a Cremonese corner moments later, while Yann Sommer had to sprint out to clear from Federico Bonazzoli after a heavy touch ruined the counter-attack.
Davide Frattesi at full stretch couldn’t keep the finish down on another Dimarco cross, but Piotr Zielinski doubled Inter’s lead with a long-range strike that swerved mid-air to surprise the not impeccable Audero under the bar.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Piotr Zielinski of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring the 0-2 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Bonazzoli tried to repeat the trick at the other end and stung Sommer’s gloves with another swerving effort.
There was a horrible incident on 50 minutes when a firework was thrown into the penalty area and exploded right next to Cremonese goalkeeper Audero. He had a burn mark on his leg and was evidently shaken, but was able to continue after a few minutes.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Goalkeeper Emil Audero of US Cremonese gets stunned by a firework during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Alessio Zerbin tested Sommer with an angled drive, while Marcus Thuram’s header turned an Alessandro Bastoni cross wide.
New signing Milan Djuric made his Cremonese debut, but couldn’t quite get his head to the Giuseppe Pezzella cross.
The hosts were unlucky not to break their goal drought in the final minutes when a free kick was cleared to the edge of the box for Alessio Zerbin’s first-time strike off the outside of the right boot, which thumped the base of the upright. A mad scramble followed, culminating in Sommer smothering at Jamie Vardy’s feet.
PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Head coach Luciano Spalletti manager of Juventus FC looks on during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Juventus FC at Arena Garibaldi on December 27, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri have really hit form in 2026, thumping Napoli 3-0 and securing their place in the Champions League play-offs thanks to a midweek 0-0 draw at Monaco.
Luciano Spalletti rotated his squad in that trip, so here brings back Kenan Yildiz, Manuel Locatelli and Francisco Conceicao.
They are in support of David rather than Lois Openda upfront, as Dusan Vlahovic, Arek Milik and Daniele Rugani are still out of action.
Francisco Conceicao celebrates opening the scoring for Juventus against Roma (@seriea_en)
Parma have not scored in their last three games, but those were 0-0 draws against Napoli and Genoa, before a 4-0 defeat to Atalanta.
Coach Carlos Cuesta spent time in the Juventus academy as a coach, and here has to do without injured Zion Suzuki, Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Matija Frigan, Lautaro Valenti and Pontus Almqvist.
Centre-forward Pellegrino returns to the starting XI, supported by Gaetano Oristanio and Jacob Ondrejka.
New signing Hans Nicolussi Caviglia is thrown straight in from the start, with Franco Carboni on the bench.
PARMA, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Gaetano Oristanio of Parma Calcio competes for the ball with Stefano Sabelli of Genoa CFC during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Genoa CFC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on January 18, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Inter are facing a huge fine after Cremonese goalkeeper Emil Audero was struck by a firework that exploded next to him during this evening’s Serie A game.
The incident occurred at the 50th minute at the Stadio Giovanni Zini, when Audero was the only player inside the penalty area.
Cremonese goalkeeper struck by flare thrown by Inter fans
He was understandably shaken, but able to continue after a few minutes of treatment.
There was a visible small cut and burn mark on Audero’s leg, where the explosion struck him.
CREMONA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Coach Cristian Chivu of FC Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and FC Internazionale at Stadio Giovanni Zini on February 01, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
Inter players and coach Cristian Chivu rushed over to warn their supporters not to throw any more objects onto the pitch.
It could’ve been considerably worse, but Audero was able to carry on the match, with his team 2-0 down.
The Serie A match between Cremonese and Inter temporarily stopped after a firecracker thrown from the away fans section exploded near goalkeeper Emil Audero. After receiving medical attention and being deemed okay, the match has resumed. pic.twitter.com/T1TRdcReYH
Cesc Fabregas tried to reassure a distraught Nico Paz, who was in tears after his last-gasp penalty was saved in a 0-0 with 10-man Atalanta. ‘I missed penalties, so did Lionel Messi and John Terry.’
The incident was the dramatic finale to a strange match, as Atalanta were reduced to 10 men in just the eighth minute when Honest Ahanor was sent off for a reaction foul, responding to Maximo Perrone’s provocation.
Giorgio Scalvini’s handling offence was spotted by VAR and a penalty awarded deep into stoppages, but Marco Carnesecchi parried the weak Nico Paz spot-kick.
Fabregas stands by upset Nico Paz
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Nico Paz of Como 1907 shows his dejection during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It means Nico Paz has now failed to convert all three penalties in his Serie A career, and the young man was in tears at the final whistle.
“I don’t want to kill a young player over a penalty, I am not like that. I missed penalties, so did Leo Messi, so did John Terry.
“We are all with Nico, we are with the young players who have the courage to make a difference. A great champion must always lift his head back up when he hasn’t done well.”
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas salutes the fans at the end of the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Was it really more of a hindrance than an advantage playing against 10?
“Yes and no,” replied Fabregas.
“If I say that I prefer to play 11 against 11, I might be misunderstood, so I’ll just say that today the ball didn’t want to go in. It happens, this is football, but I also want to congratulate Atalanta, who wouldn’t give in, and played their game.
“Let’s say we were unlucky, but when their goalkeeper makes nine saves, it’s not like I or my assistant can come off the touchline and put the ball in the net. We created nine clear-cut scoring opportunities, so let’s lift our heads and keep going.”
This was a battle between Como in sixth place and Atalanta in seventh, so what are their ambitions for this season?
“The objective this term was to do better than last year, taking it one game at a time. We will always play our game, if we are up against Napoli, Fiorentina, Milan or Juventus.
“We played a lot in recent weeks, and were not accustomed to it, so we’ve got to just keep it going,” concluded Fabregas.
Inter President Beppe Marotta confirms Davide Frattesi will not join Nottingham Forest, Liverpool did call for Denzel Dumfries, but there ‘weren’t the right conditions’ for Moussa Diaby or Ivan Perisic.
The visit to Cremonese kicks off at the Stadio Giovanni Zini at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 23: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Pisa SC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 23, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Frattesi gets a rare start, despite the rumours he could be on the verge of a potential move to Nottingham Forest before the transfer deadline.
“As we have always said, we don’t want to hold back any player who wants to go elsewhere. Frattesi has never expressed the desire to leave, of course everyone wants more playing time, but he will have the chance during the season to show what he can do,” Marotta told Sky Sport Italia.
Carlos Augusto has joined the absentee list along with Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries.
Marotta outlines Inter transfer strategy
PISA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Giuseppe Marotta of FC Internazionale looks on prior to the Serie A match between Pisa SC and FC Internazionale at Arena Garibaldi on November 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The transfer window is open for just over another 24 hours and Inter had been in talks to secure Moussa Diaby from Al-Ittihad, on loan with an option to buy becoming an obligation in certain conditions.
“We went into this transfer window without a sense of anxiety or with the desperate need to fill any gaps. Dumfries had surgery, and we were therefore looking for an opportunity in that area of the squad, but it had to be advantageous, and we couldn’t find anyone to fit the bill,” explained Marotta.
“With regards to Diaby, we had made an approach, but the right conditions did not appear, so we don’t predict any other transfer negotiations.”
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Internazionale looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There were reports that Liverpool had made an approach for Dumfries in the January transfer window as well.
“Liverpool made a phone call just to ask about the Dumfries situation, but there is absolutely nothing more than that. These are unplanned calls that do nothing other than destabilise a situation. He is staying with us.”
Perisic was also linked with a potential return to Serie A and specifically San Siro from PSV Eindhoven.
“Perisic is fond of Inter, as he had some great seasons here. We interpreted that as his desire to end a very long season with us, but there aren’t the right conditions. So albeit appreciating his quality and professionalism, there was nothing more concrete than a couple of phone calls,” concluded Marotta.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 21: Ivan Perisic of PSV Eindhoven warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD7 match between Newcastle United FC and PSV Eindhoven at St James’ Park on January 21, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are top of the Serie A table and beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in Germany on Wednesday, even if that was not enough for them to avoid the Champions League play-offs.
They will be up against Bodo/Glimt, who have already caused some upsets on home turf, famously beating Manchester City.
“Nothing can be taken for granted and they have some very difficult climactic conditions in home games, including that artificial pitch.”
Atalanta were down to 10 for practically the entire match after an Honest Ahanor reaction foul, but Como were frustrated and Marco Carnesecchi saved Nico Paz’s last-gasp penalty.
This was a battle for ambition and Europe, as sixth hosted seventh in the Serie A table. Cesc Fabregas had won five of the last seven Serie A games and was fresh off a midweek 3-1 Coppa Italia victory over Fiorentina. La Dea lost 1-0 to Union Saint-Gilloise, but still swept into the Champions League play-offs. Their Serie A form was better, picking up 13 points from five rounds. Ademola Lookman was left out pending a transfer.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Como 1907 fans show their support during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It was a dramatic start to the match, as within eight minutes Atalanta went down to 10 men. Maxi Perrone was saying something to Honest Ahanor, who reacted angrily by shoving him in the face during an off the ball incident. The referee did not see it, but showed the red card to Ahanor and the yellow to Perrone after consulting with his assistants.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Honest Ahanor of Atalanta BC walks off after getting a red card during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Tasos Douvikas failed to make the most of an inspired Martin Baturina pass that sent him clear, while Douvikas and Jacobo Ramon also turned headers just off target.
Douvikas was sent through the middle by Baturina only to scuff the weak finish into the arms of Marco Carnesecchi, followed by Nico Paz doing the same on a Douvikas lay-off.
Carnesecchi parried a powerful Nico Paz snapshot and Giorgio Scalvini threw himself in the way to prevent Perrone tapping in the rebound.
Mergim Vojvoda also tested the Atalanta goalkeeper, while Carnesecchi rushed out to stop Jacobo Ramon turning in the deflected Marc-Oliver Kempf attempt at the near post.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Maximo Perrone of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Raoul Bellanova made his return after two months out with a thigh injury, and 10-man Atalanta nearly took the lead straight after the restart. Charles De Ketelaere sent Kamaldeen Sulemana on the counter, forcing a difficult one-handed Jean Butez save after sending Jacobo Ramon to ground.
Ramon had several chances at the other end, a header over and angled drive skimming the far post, but Douvikas was once again wasteful when he failed to connect with a Jayden Addai roll across from five yards.
Meanwhile, the Atalanta counter-attacks were getting more frequent, Nikola Krstovic nodding a Lorenzo Bernasconi cross wide.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 is challenged by Marten De Roon of Atalanta BC during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 01, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Alvaro Morata was incorrectly flagged offside when his angled drive shaved a coat of paint off the far post, then his free header was straight at Carnesecchi after Giorgio Scalvini slipped.
Ederson drilled wide, but Carnesecchi was again decisive on Jacobo Ramon, who controlled a ball with his chest, let it bounce and flicked it around Bernasconi to force the save from point-blank range.
Deep into stoppages, VAR spotted that Scalvini had struck the ball with his hand when going to head it away and Como were awarded a penalty. Nico Paz had missed his previous two spot-kicks in Serie A, and made it three out of three when Carnesecchi parried his fairly weak and central attempt at the 98th minute.
The Inter injury list keeps growing, but Lautaro Martinez partners Francesco Pio Esposito with Davide Frattesi in midfield against Jamie Vardy’s unpredictable Cremonese.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JANUARY 28: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between Borussia Dortmund and FC Internazionale Milano at BVB Stadion Dortmund on January 28, 2026 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri are flying away at the top of the Serie A table and had their confidence boosted by a midweek 2-0 victory away to Borussia Dortmund, even if it wasn’t enough to avoid the Champions League play-offs.
However, the injury list is growing, now missing Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu, Denzel Dumfries and also Carlos Augusto.
Lautaro Martinez and Alessandro Bastoni were rested in the Champions League midweek, so return to the starting XI with Pio Esposito.
Sucic and Piotr Zielinski form the midfield with Frattesi, while despite rumours of a potential exit, Luis Henrique also starts.
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 02, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Cremonese made their name as giant-killers this season with victories over Milan and Bologna, holding Como, Atalanta and Lazio to draws.
Their form has taken a dip in recent weeks, managing just three stalemates in their last eight games, not scoring for three on the bounce.
Tommaso Barbieri is suspended, with Martin Payero, Antonio Sanabria, Warren Bondo, Faris Moumbagna and Michele Collocolo injured.
New signings Milan Djuric and Youssef Maleh are thrown straight onto the bench.
Veteran Vardy leads the way with Federico Bonazzoli, while Alessio Zerbin moves into a midfield role.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Davide Nicola, Head Coach of Cremonese, congratulates Jamie Vardy of Cremonese following the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Cremonese at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Bianconeri are looking for reinforcements in attack after the serious Dusan Vlahovic injury, as Jonathan David and Lois Openda have struggled to find the net.
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 26: Mauro Icardi of FC Internazionale claps the hands during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Empoli FC at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 26, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It’s reported now by Sportitalia chief Pedullà that Juve approached Galatasaray to ask after Icardi.
It comes after the two teams were paired in the Champions League play-offs, so Spalletti praised the Argentine in his press conference yesterday, calling Icardi “one of the best finishers I ever worked with.”
They were together at Inter and that was also the last time the centre-forward was in Serie A, leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in a €50m transfer in the summer of 2020.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
He turns 33 later this month and his contract with Galatasaray only runs to June 30, so he ought to be available for quite a low price.
The striker scored 10 goals with two assists in 29 competitive games this season, having recovered from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2024.
Napoli are breathing a sigh of relief after tests showed Giovanni Di Lorenzo avoided serious knee ligament damage, so he might only be out for a month.
There had been genuine concerns that his season was over after he hyperextended his left knee during yesterday’s 2-1 Serie A win over Fiorentina.
The Partenopei captain was stretchered off in agony and seen leaving the stadium on crutches.
Di Lorenzo avoided far worse damage
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Pisa have officially announced the dismissal of coach Alberto Gilardino after managing just one victory in 23 Serie A games.
There had been reports swirling around on Saturday evening that the 3-1 home defeat to Sassuolo would be the final straw in a situation that had become increasingly untenable.
The club released a formal statement late into the night confirming that Gilardino had been sacked from his position and they are seeking a new coach.
Gilardino fired by rock bottom Pisa
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Fans of Pisa Sporting Club let off flares 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)
He had taken over in the summer following their promotion from Serie B, a return to the top flight after several decades in the Calcio wilderness.
However, Gilardino oversaw just one win, 11 draws and 11 losses this season in Serie A.
There was also one victory and one defeat in the Coppa Italia.
Despite the serious Giovanni Di Lorenzo injury, Napoli will reportedly go ahead and complete the swoop for Sporting CP wide striker Alisson Santos, on loan with option to buy for a total €20m.
Di Lorenzo was stretchered off during today’s 2-1 win over Fiorentina and coach Antonio Conte suggested they fear he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Alisson Santos of Sporting Clube de Portugal battles for possession with Leonardo Spinazzola of SSC Napoli during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between SSC Napoli and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
However, Sky Sport Italia claim that will not change their transfer strategy, so the focus remains on investing in a new attacking wide man.
That will be Alisson Santos, who is expected to arrive over the weekend on loan for €3.5m from Sporting CP.
There is an option to buy that is not an obligation, which would bring the entire cost of the operation to circa €20m.
The 23-year-old Brazilian is right-footed and attacks down the left flank, scoring three goals with two assists in 30 competitive games this season.
There are growing reports that Pisa could pull the plug on Alberto Gilardino following today’s defeat to Sassuolo, with Marco Giampaolo approached to take over.
The newly-promoted club knew it would be a tough campaign, but find themselves in joint last place alongside Hellas Verona after 23 rounds.
Gilardino struggling to turn Pisa around
NAPLES, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 22: Alberto Gilardino Pisa SC heaad coach greets Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Pisa SC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on September 22, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
They were beaten 3-1 by Sassuolo this afternoon on home turf and now have just one victory, 11 draws and 11 defeats in Serie A this season.
Gilardino was sitting out a one-match touchline ban and so had to watch from the stands.
Nonetheless, it was unusual that Pisa did not send anyone to speak with the media after the final whistle.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 12: Marco Giampaolo, Head Coach of US Lecce, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus and Lecce at Allianz Stadium on April 12, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sport Italia, the club is losing faith in Gilardino’s ability to turn this situation around and a decision could be made to axe him within 48 hours.
The first choice to take over is Giampaolo, who has been a free agent since his experience at Lecce ended in June 2025.
His former clubs include Milan, Torino, Sampdoria, Empoli and Cremonese.
Cagliari put themselves comfortably mid-table with a spectacular Semih Kilicsoy scissor-kick volley the highlight of their 4-0 win against 10-man Hellas Verona.
This was a big relegation tussle, as Hellas were in joint last place with Pisa going into this weekend, while the Sardinians had broken away following back-to-back wins over Juventus and Fiorentina. Michael Folorunsho, Andrea Belotti and Mattia Felici were still out injured, while the visitors missed Rafik Belghali, Armel Bella-Kotchap and Tomas Suslov.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Elia Caprile and Mina Yerry of Cagliari shake hands during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Mazzitelli had the first real chance with a well-taken volley from the D, which Simone Perilli had to fingertip round the base of the near post at full stretch.
Roberto Gagliardini was struggling after an early knock to the ribs and eventually had to be substituted, so new signing Sandi Lovric made his debut just hours after completing the transfer from Udinese.
Cagliari opened the scoring when Marco Palestra rode two tackles to pull back from the by-line, Adam Obert intelligently saw Mazzitelli behind him and provided the assist with a back-heel flick to drill in at the near post.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Luca Mazzitelli of Cagliari scores his goal 1-0 during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Sebastiano Esposito fired just over from the edge of the box following another strong Palestra run down the right, then Semih Kilicsoy had the ball in the net with a spectacular scissor-kick volley at the back post on Esposito’s cross after a corner. At first, he was flagged offside, but that decision was reversed following the VAR review.
Things went from bad to worse for Verona, as Amin Sarr received his second yellow card. Both were for clumsy rather than malicious challenges, going in late on first Mazzitelli and then Ze Pedro.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Gift Emmanuel Orban of Hellas Verona in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 31, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Nonetheless, Hellas threatened with Daniel Mosquera’s deflected finish looping up, forcing Elia Caprile to fingertip it over the bar.
Perilli scrambled across to push a Sebastiano Luperto snapshot round the near post and Lovric’s Verona debut did not last long, as he went off with a minor injury.
Cagliari added a third late on when Perilli made an extraordinary reaction save on Michel Adopo’s header from a corner, but could do nothing on Ibrahim Sulemana’s follow-up.
Verona visibly lost all confidence and capitulated to a fourth in the final minute, as Gabriele Zappa whipped a cross from the right for Riyad Idrissi to nod in from close range. He only has two Serie A goals, both scored against Verona.
Ademola Lookman is edging closer to Atletico Madrid, after reports the Spanish side improved their personal terms and agreed a deal with Atalanta, unlike Fenerbahce.
The Nigeria international had been trying to push for the exit over the summer towards Inter, but La Dea wouldn’t sell to a direct competitor within Serie A for under €50m.
Lookman torn between Atletico Madrid and Fenerbahce
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta controls the ball whilst under pressure from Moises Caicedo of Chelsea during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Chelsea FC at Stadio di Bergamo on December 09, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
He had seemed to be ready for Fenerbahce in January, but the Turkish team would not provide the financial guarantees demanded by Atalanta.
This would reportedly be a €40m package with most of the money upfront, as much as €35m.
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lookman had at first resisted the idea, as he had already agreed personal terms with Fenerbahce, with reports they were offering him €9m per season plus bonuses.
This evening, Sportitalia, Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and Sports Digitale all report that Atletico Madrid improved their proposal to Lookman, who is beginning to open the door to the Colchoneros.
The player was left out of the squad for tomorrow’s Serie A match against Como, so that he can focus on these last-minute negotiations.
Atalanta also favour Atletico Madrid because they already did business in January with Giacomo Raspadori’s move to Bergamo.
Torino have officially signed Sandro Kulenovic from GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Luca Marianucci from Napoli, but deals for Tottenham’s Callum Olusesi and Kevin Jappert of Barracas Central stalled.
The Granata are having a very active spell on the transfer market as we approach the January deadline.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan is challenged by Luca Marianucci of Napoli during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Marianucci completed his loan move from Napoli and there is no option to make it permanent at the end of the season.
The Croatian centre-forward turned 26 last month and the cost of the operation is believed to be circa €4m.
Torino hits and misses on the transfer market
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Torino FC coach Marco Baroni during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Torino FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
However, other transfers are proving decidedly more difficult for Torino to complete.
Instead, the Granata turned towards Atletico Rafaele-owned Jappert, but Sky Sport Italia warn that too has run into issues.
He is currently on loan at Barracas Central, who have seemingly refused to let him interrupt that experience early.
The same source also reports that Torino had agreed a loan with option to buy for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Olusesi, and he even flew in for a medical on Friday, but problems emerged to stall the whole thing.
Paolo Vanoli feels Fiorentina ‘deserved something more’ from their 2-1 defeat to Napoli and is open to a new heavy strike partnership in future.
The Viola had been revitalised in 2026, but have now lost three on the bounce in all competition after defeats to Cagliari, then Como in the Coppa Italia, and this evening Napoli.
Antonio Vergara and Miguel Gutierrez had put the Partenopei 2-0 up, but Manor Solomon got one back and set up a tense finale at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Vanoli saw Fiorentina progress against Napoli
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Paolo Vanoli ACF Fiorentina head coach with his player Pietro Comuzzo during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“We need to stay in the game more, because I said that the first half would mean suffering under pressure, we shouldn’t have conceded that goal,” Vanoli told DAZN Italia.
“Individual errors are becoming very damaging at the moment. We did better after the restart and in my view deserved something more.”
Moise Kean was only fit for the bench, but when he came on as a substitute, formed a new partnership with Roberto Piccoli.
When both are fit, is it possible for Fiorentina to start them together upfront?
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Alessandro Buongiorno of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Roberto Piccoli of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“At times, Roberto struggled with the step up to a club like Fiorentina, but he works hard and I liked the pairing this evening,” replied Vanoli.
“Now we’ve got to get Moise back to full fitness. We are a decent team now, but need to whittle down those little errors that saw us drop points against Lazio and Milan.
“We always struggled against the smaller sides because we didn’t have enough balance, so in those fixtures we’ll understand if we have really improved.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Vanoli is no stranger to Antonio Conte’s tactics, as he was part of the Napoli coach’s staff at Chelsea and Inter before going it alone.
With this in mind, he had a warm hug with ex-Inter striker Romelu Lukaku after the final whistle.
“Those were good memories, I was Conte’s assistant at Inter and Romelu was an important part of that squad. When a player comes over to hug you, it means you gave them something special in their career.”
Antonio Conte confirms Giovanni Di Lorenzo has probably torn his ACL, then lashes out angrily at Napoli directors, UEFA and more. ‘We need a bigger squad, otherwise it’s suicide.’
The Partenopei were in dire need of a boost after back-to-back defeats against Juventus in Serie A and Chelsea in the Champions League, the latter sealing their early elimination.
Antonio Vergara scored his first senior Napoli goal in that midweek tie and this evening got his first in Serie A, followed by Miguel Gutierrez for a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina.
Conte confirms season probably over for Di Lorenzo
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
There was bad news too for Napoli, as captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo was stretchered off in agony after his left knee seemed to hyper-extend, prompting fears of ligament damage.
“There’s not much we can say, it’s game upon game upon game, we have to keep using players who ought to be rested and yet can’t, it leads to these situations,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“I tore my cruciate ligament, I know it’s a traumatic injury. I continue to say playing all these matches, it kills the players and kills football.
“Now there are restrictions on who you can have in the squad, and ours is even smaller because we don’t have many players from the youth academy, and the ones we do have want to go out on loan to play more regularly.
“We pulled Vergara out the hat, then there are age limits, but if we have to play 60 games per year, we need a bigger squad, otherwise it’s suicide.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Albert Gudmundsson of ACF Fiorentina battles for possession with Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Di Lorenzo has not had the tests yet, but Conte suggests the initial feedback from the medical staff is very bad indeed.
“The sensation is he’s done serious damage to his knee and it’s the cruciate ligament. It’s nasty. You know full well what Di Lorenzo means for us.
“People say I complain, but we’re doing anything but complaining considering this is an infinite series of injuries. They are bad injuries too, not just muscular ones for 2-4 weeks out, these are serious.
“We are managing to plug the holes because these lads are doing extraordinary things. Once again, there weren’t many options on the bench.”
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Conte then lashed out at the Napoli hierarchy, but at the football calendar in general with the expanded Champions League and Supercoppa Italiana.
“Clubs don’t seem to understand it’s like a dog chasing its own tail. You fight to qualify for all these tournaments to get more money, but it’s ephemeral, because the more competitions you are in, the more players you have to buy, the more the wage bill goes up.
“If they don’t understand that, then football will go in a bad direction and leads to this sort of thing. I don’t just mean Napoli, I am speaking out in general to defend players and it’s a shame everyone turns their backs on players in favour of the clubs, leagues, UEFA, etc. I say this as an ex-player.”
This is a team already stretched thin without Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Miguel Gutierrez of SSC Napoli celebrates with his head coach Antonio Conte and Juan Jesus after scoring his side second goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
When Di Lorenzo was injured, why did Conte introduce Mathias Olivera rather than centre-back Sam Beukema?
“I introduced Mathias because right now he gives me more guarantees than Beukema, that’s it,” shrugged the Napoli coach.
“We are talking about a team trying to do its best with what we have at our disposal. Fortunately, we picked up these points, but if the season had started today and we had this squad, what position do you think Napoli would be challenging for? Be realistic.
“We have the Coppa Italia, we want to qualify for Europe, but it becomes very difficult, especially as the other clubs are bringing in reinforcements, while we are under a transfer embargo.
“That is just fantastic,” added Conte sarcastically. “We are the only club running at a profit of €240m and are banned from making transfers.
“Honestly, I am really p***ed off about Di Lorenzo, so it’s best we wrap this up or I’ll say something else and get into trouble.”
Antonio Vergara and Miguel Gutierrez got their first ever Serie A goals to put Napoli back on track against Fiorentina, but Giovanni Di Lorenzo was stretchered off.
The Partenopei were coming off back-to-back defeats to Juventus and Chelsea, the latter sealing their Champions League elimination midweek. The epic injury crisis meant there was no room for squad rotation, as Vanja Milinkovic-Savic was only fit for the bench, with David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour out. The Viola also lost two on the bounce, 2-1 to Cagliari in Serie A and a Coppa Italia exit to Como. Tariq Lamptey was the only absentee, as Moise Kean returned to the bench after an ankle issue.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Miguel Gutierrez volleyed just wide from the edge of the area, but Napoli broke through with an emotional moment for Vergara. The hometown player scored his first Champions League goal against Chelsea, and here got his first in Serie A.
The long Alex Meret ball was meant to be for Rasmus Hojlund, but as Marin Pongracic brought him down, it kept going with Vergara sprinting clear to beat the on-rushing David De Gea.
Scott McTominay’s acrobatic bicycle kick went over the bar, while Pongracic charged down another Vergara strike.
Hojlund twice tried to tap in a roll across from the right, but it was charged down right on the line by Pietro Comuzzo, who deflected it onto the base of the upright.
Moments later, Fiorentina had a huge double opportunity from a free kick, as first Roberto Piccoli’s header bounced off the upright, then the move continued and Alex Meret made an extraordinary reaction save on Albert Gudmundsson from point-blank range.
During that move, Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s left knee buckled and he was stretchered off in agony, replaced by Mathias Olivera.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli injured during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Eljif Elmas rode three tackles for a shot deflected by Marco Brescianini, then McTominay tested De Gea on the rebound, while Hojlund struck the side-netting on a Vergara lay-off.
Rolando Mandragora came on and immediately skimmed the upright with a free kick, but Napoli doubled their lead instead.
Vergara spread the play down the right for Miguel Gutierrez, who cut inside Robin Gosens and bent a left-foot finish into the far bottom corner, with De Gea perhaps unsighted.
Fiorentina did get one back when Dodo sent Piccoli through the middle, forcing a Meret save, but Manor Solomon was ready to turn in the rebound.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Manor Solomon of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring his side first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Hojlund twice aimed weak finishes into the arms of De Gea, while Kean was offside when he dribbled around Meret to clip the outside of the upright.
Kean did force a tricky save out of Meret at the near post moments later, and Mandragora’s strike was charged down from the resulting corner.
A deflected McTominay attempt was tricky for De Gea and Giovane’s volley was charged down, but Piccoli turned wide when off balance in stoppages from six yards on a Dodo cross.
Kean sprung the offside trap on Fagioli’s floated ball only to scuff the angled drive wide after a heavy first touch.
The Partenopei were leading 1-0 through an Antonio Vergara goal and had just seen Roberto Piccoli’s header bounce off the upright when Di Lorenzo went to charge down an effort.
As he landed, his left knee seemed to buckle under him, and he immediately called to the bench for medical assistance.
Napoli worried by Di Lorenzo injury
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Giovanni Di Lorenzo of SSC Napoli celebrates and shows the Supercoppa Italia to his supporters before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 07, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The captain was visibly in a great deal of pain as he was loaded onto a stretcher and taken away by ambulance, where he will undergo tests at the local hospital.
It is just the latest blow in an epic injury crisis at Napoli, who are already missing Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Amir Rrahmani, Matteo Politano, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
Roberto De Zerbi’s time at Olympique Marseille could be coming to an end, and new Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici reportedly wants to bring him back to Serie A.
There had already been rumours in France over the last few days that De Zerbi had handed in his resignation and asked to leave Marseille following their Champions League elimination.
That was seemingly rejected by the club, but the situation remains tense and the Italian is expected to walk away at the end of the season.
De Zerbi could return to Serie A
MARSEILLE, FRANCE – NOVEMBER 25: Roberto De Zerbi, head coach of Olympique de Marseille reacts 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)
According to Calciomercato.it, new Fiorentina director Paratici has plans to bring De Zerbi back to Serie A at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
It would be from next term, assuming of course that current boss Paolo Vanoli manages to keep them in the top flight.
The Italian coach has not worked in Italy since leaving Sassuolo on 2021, having experiences abroad for Shakhtar Donetsk, Brighton and Hove Albion, and since 2024 at Olympique Marseille.
Antonio Conte admits he has mixed feelings about Napoli’s Champions League exit, because it would’ve been ‘honestly impossible’ to continue with more games during the injury crisis.
This evening they host Fiorentina at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).
The Partenopei only have Serie A and the Coppa Italia to focus on now, as the 3-2 defeat to Chelsea here saw them eliminated from the Champions League just 67 hours ago.
Conte sees Napoli ‘on right track’
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts from the technical area during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
“I tried to evaluate the game with them, which I thought was very positive,” Conte told DAZN Italia.
“We created many chances and were not suitably rewarded for them, so we have regrets at going out of this competition. At the same time, we must gain belief from seeing we are on the right track at a European level, so can achieve great satisfaction.
“Like every journey, you need a bit of luck, and we are still missing a lot of players. There are things we can learn and develop so that in future we can do better.”
The injury crisis continues to take its toll, ruling out Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour.
NAPOLI, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli talks with his coach Antonio Conte during the Serie A match between Napoli and Parma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on August 31, 2024 in Napoli, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Luca Marianucci officially completed his loan to Torino today, but how long will it take for Romelu Lukaku to be ready for Napoli?
“Lukaku played 19 minutes over two games. Romelu had a really nasty injury, he is speeding up the recovery process, but we need patience and will try to set up some midweek friendlies to get him back to match fitness.
“That was difficult so far, as we had barely any training sessions and a game every three days. Romelu is an important figure both within the team and the locker room, so we hope he and others can get back to fitness.
“It’s fortunate really that the number of matches have been reduced now, otherwise it would’ve been honestly impossible to continue,” concluded Conte.
Milan are not expected to announce it until Sunday, but today Mike Maignan signed the new contract to June 2030 with option until 2031.
The goalkeeper had been on the verge of an exit over the summer, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
There is no shortage of clubs who want to snap up the France international as a free agent, including Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United.
Maignan commits his future to Milan
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It will run to June 2030 and there is an option to extend until June 2031, which can be activated by the club.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – JANUARY 06: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates with the Italian Super Cup Trophy after his team’s victory in the Italian Super Cup Final between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Kingdom Arena on January 06, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Napoli try to put Champions League disappointment behind them and focus on Serie A with Rasmus Hojlund, Scott McTominay and Antonio Vergara, while Fiorentina look to Albert Gudmundsson.
CREMONA, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Coach Antonio Conte of SSC Napoli reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and SSC Napoli at Stadio Giovanni Zini on December 28, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Partenopei crashed out of Europe on Wednesday with their 3-2 home defeat to Chelsea, as the epic injury crisis continues to take its toll.
There is no room for squad rotation, as Vanja Milinkovic-Savic is still not fully fit, with David Neres, Matteo Politano, Amir Rrahmani, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne and Billy Gilmour out.
Luca Marianucci was loaned to Torino today, with new signing Giovane on the bench after his debut as a substitute in the 3-0 defeat to Juventus.
The only changes from the side that lost to Chelsea are in position, with Miguel Gutierrez and Leonardo Spinazzola expected to swap flanks in a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Antonio Vergara continues to impress after his wonder goal against Chelsea, supporting Hojlund with Eljif Elmas.
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 28: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD8 match between SSC Napoli and Chelsea FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 28, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Fiorentina remain in the relegation zone, but had certainly improved in 2026 with two wins and two draws before their 2-1 home loss to Cagliari.
They were knocked out of the Coppa Italia on Tuesday in a 3-1 defeat to Como as well.
Tariq Lamptey is the only remaining absentee, as Moise Kean is fit enough for a spot on the bench after a recurring ankle issue.
Roberto Piccoli, Dodo and Rolando Mandragora also shook off knocks, as the centre-forward had limped off during that Coppa Italia tie.
January buys Manor Solomon, Giovanni Fabbian, Marco Brescianini and Jack Harrison bolster the squad options.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 07: Robin Gosens of ACF Fiorentina celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Albert Gudmundsson and Nicolo Fagioli during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico on January 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Napoli vs. Fiorentina line-ups
Napoli: Meret; Di Lorenzo, Juan Jesus, Buongiorno; Gutierrez, Lobotka, McTominay, Spinazzola; Vergara, Elmas; Hojlund
Domenico Berardi made the ideal return to the starting XI, scoring and forcing an own goal in Sassuolo’s 3-1 victory away to rock bottom Pisa.
The team in last place missed suspended Arturo Calabresi and coach Alberto Gilardino, plus Adrian Semper, Raul Albiol, Daniel Denoon, Juan Cuadrado and Mateus Lusuardi after fumbling a lead to lose 6-2 with Inter. The Neroverdi were fairly comfortable mid-table, though Fali Cande, Daniel Boloca and Edoardo Pieragnolo were out of action. Domenico Berardi got his first start since November 28.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Fans of Pisa Sporting Club let off flares 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)
Pisa had the ball in the net within four minutes, but full debutant Rosen Bozhinov was offside when knocking back the Antonio Caracciolo cross to the back post.
Michael Aebischer curled just wide, while Armand Lauriente tested Simone Scuffet from the tightest of angles.
It was Sassuolo who scored on the counter-attack, as Berardi got down the right and scored from a tricky angle into the roof of the net using his weaker right foot. He hadn’t found the net since November 9.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Domenico Berardi of US Sassuolo scores 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)
Berardi nearly added another soon after, his volley on a Lauriente cross flashing wide, then fired inches over the bar after Kristjan Thorstvedt failed to pick the right pass.
Arijanet Muric flapped at a cross and was fortunate to parry Stefano Moreo’s follow-up, while Simone Scuffet rushed out for a desperate save on Ismael Kone from eight yards.
Sassuolo doubled their lead on the resulting corner, as Berardi’s cross-shot was accidentally deflected into his own net by Caracciolo.
Pisa made a triple change at half-time, with Mehdi Leris immediately stinging Arijanet Muric’s gloves.
The hosts got back into it when Rafia Durosinmi laid it off to the edge of the area for Michel Aebischer to thump a powerful strike into the top corner.
PISA, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Michel Aebischer of Pisa Sporting Club 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)
Just 60 seconds later, it was almost 2-2, but Jay Idzes sprinted back for a decisive goal-line clearance on the Leris angled drive that had beaten Muric.
Berardi also tested Scuffet at the base of the near post on the counter, and Sassuolo restored their two-goal cushion when Nemanja Matic got down the right and rolled across for Kone to sweep in first-time from 12 yards.
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)
Berardi’s nutmeg sent Lauriente down the right, where he was bundled over by Tramoni for a penalty, but VAR showed the initial contact was just outside the box.
Andrea Pinamonti’s header flashed inches over, while a Matic scorcher was just wide.
Muric crashed into Durosinmi, who had sprung the offside trap to chest down a long ball going clear on goal. It would’ve been a red card for Sassuolo goalkeeper, but he was rescued because the Pisa striker’s kneecap was offside.
Durosinmi also should’ve done better with a glancing header well wide from six yards.
Pisa 1-3 Sassuolo
Berardi 25 (S), Caracciolo og 45 (S), Aebischer 51 (P), Kone 59 (S)
The Rossoneri are looking to the Premier League during this January transfer window, also on the verge of securing striker Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace.
Disasi has his sights set on Milan move
Axel Disasi of Chelsea of Chelsea during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Chelsea FC and Shamrock Rovers FC at Stamford Bridge on December 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen what terms Chelsea and the Rossoneri will be able to agree to, a loan with an option to buy at the end of the season being the most likely.
The defender turns 28 in March and spent part of last season on loan at Aston Villa.
Chelsea paid €45m to buy the Frenchman from AS Monaco in the summer of 2023, but he hasn’t played for the senior squad at all this season.
A statement from Lazio announced that tests performed at the Villa Mafalda clinic had shown a medium-grade lesion to the oblique muscle in his abdomen.
Zaccagni not expected back until March 2026
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 15, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The report from Sky Sport Italia warns this kind of injury should keep Zaccagni out of action for at least four weeks.
It is a blow to the Aquile and the Italy squad, as Zaccagni had scored four goals with one assist in 20 games this season between Serie A and the Coppa Italia.
Lazio are still missing Gil Patric and Samuel Gigot, but signed Kenneth Taylor, Daniel Maldini, Petar Ratkov and Adrian Przyborek in the January transfer window.
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