Juventus midfielder Teun Koopmeiners ‘can’t be happy’ after scoring a brace against Galatasaray as the Bianconeri slumped to a 5-2 loss away at Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Juventus suffered a heavy 5-2 loss against Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off on Tuesday.

Koopmeiners’ comments after Galatasaray 5-2 Juventus

Koopmeiners scored his first goals this season and his first two in the Champions League before the break, giving Juventus a 2-1 lead.

“I think we played a good first half; we scored two great goals. We said in the dressing room that we had to keep the ball possession longer, but the way the second half went was not good,” the Dutch midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.

“We must look at the videos and know that there’s a new game next week.”

Juan Cabal was sent off in the second half, after barely 20 minutes from his introduction, while Gleison Bremer suffered a suspected muscle injury in the first half and was forced to be subbed off.

The decider will be played in Turin on Wednesday next week.

“We must improve and score three goals at least; it’s easy,” said the Juventus midfielder.

“I started well with this coach, I scored two important goals in the first half, but I can’t be happy. Because nothing matters when you look at the second half. We scored twice, but we need at least three in the next one.

“I feel well in this position. I think I can contribute with goals. I told myself I had to score more goals. I did it in the first half, but we had to do more in the second.”

Juventus have lost three of their last four games across all competitions, drawing once, and conceding 13 goals in the process.

Juventus’ next game will be at home against Como in Serie A this coming Saturday.

Di Gregorio 5 – A couple of decent saves here and there, but it was always too easy for Juventus opponents to score. The Italian didn’t look confident on set pieces and with distribution.

• Match report – Galatasaray 5-2 Juventus: Cabal catastrophe ruins Champions League play-off

Kalulu 6 – Straight back to action after Saturday’s controversy against Inter, the French played a key role in Teun Koopmeiners’ equaliser, forcing a save from Ugurcan Cakir before the rebound was tapped home.

Bremer 6.5 – Injured early in the first half, but remained on the pitch until the Bianconeri took the lead. Juventus collapsed after he left the field. (34′ Gatti 4)

Kelly 4 – A positive performance in the first half, but the Englishman faded after the break. He lost the ball inside the box for Galatasaray’s fourth goal and lost yet another duel against Osimhen for the fifth.

Cambiaso 6.5 – His forward run right after Galatasaray’s opener paved the way for Koopmeiners’ equaliser. His cross for Kalulu came with a high degree of difficulty. He was booked in the first half and will miss the return leg next week. (46′ Cabal 3 – A terrible impact. In the wrong position for Gala’s equaliser, then caused the free kick that led to the opponents’ third goal. Very few successful passes. Two yellow cards in 20 minutes. A disaster.)

Koopmeiners 7  – He had no goals and no assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this season. No Champions League in his career. All of a sudden, he showed why Juventus paid €60m for him over 18 months ago.

Locatelli 5 – Too many errors in the build-up, and didn’t help the team defensively as he usually does.

Thuram 4.5 – Back to action after missing Saturday’s game against Inter. The Frenchman was sloppy on the ball and made a dangerous backpass that Galatasaray converted in their fourth goal. (80′ Miretti N/A).

Conceicao 5 – Energetic and involved throughout, as always, but his impact faded in the final third, where the decisive pass was missing. (70′ Kostic 5).

McKennie 6.5 – Started as a centre-forward but, as ever, he played all over the pitch. Also provided the assist for Koopmeiners’ second goal.

Yildiz 4.5 – The homeboy didn’t seem fully fit as he often checked on his knee during the match. He also lost possession in a danger zone, leading to Galatasaray’s opening goal. He was never dangerous and was subbed off when the game was practically over (81′ Openda N/A).

Coach: Spalletti 4 – A shocking result, a disastrous second half for the Bianconeri. Still not clear why he replaced Cambiaso after a brilliant first-half performance. Cabal dragged the team down, and this time, Juventus sank rather than reacting.

Galatasaray: Ugurcan Cakir 6; Sallai 6, Sanchez 7, Abdulkerim Bardakci 7 (77′ Singo N/A), Jakobs 6.5 (83′ Elmali N/A); Torreira 7, Gabriel Sara 8.5; Baris Alper Yilmaz 7.5 (77′ Icardi N/A), Yunus Akgun 7.5 (70′ Sané), Lang 7.5 (83′ Boey); Osimhen 8. Coach: Buruk 8.

Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino explains how he prepared his team for a ‘fascinating’ Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund: ‘A maturity test.’

Atalanta visit Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off this evening.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta – Palladino’s pre-match quotes

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

“I’ve tried to convey serenity and tranquillity as we tried to prepare the game in a fascinating stadium,” Palladino told Sky Sport via TMW.

“I see it in the lads’ eyes. I’ve spoken to them, just a few things, very clear. It’s a nice maturity test for us tonight.”

Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere are injured, so Mario Pasalic starts as an attacking midfielder.

“He’s a versatile midfielder who can play as an attacking midfielder too. He did in the past, and he can score,” Palladino said.

“It shouldn’t take long for Raspadori; we’ll assess it with the staff. I hope he returns in two or three weeks, and around a month for De Ketelaere. We’ll try to recover them as quickly as possible.”

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer was forced to be substituted during the first half of a Champions League match against Galatasaray due to a suspected muscle injury.

Juventus defender Bremer suffered a suspected muscle injury during the first half of a Champions League match against Galatasaray on Tuesday.

Bremer suffered a suspected muscle injury vs. Galatasaray

As reported by Gazzetta, the Brazilian repeatedly touched his right thigh before being forced to be subbed off.

Bremer even left the field for a few minutes to get his thigh massaged by doctors, but Juventus were one goal down, so he refused to leave the field.

Teun Koopmeiners, however, scored twice in a few minutes, and Bremer surrendered just after the Dutchman’s second goal.

This evening’s match between Galatasaray and Juventus is the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off. The decider will be played in Turin next week.

You can follow live updates for Galatasaray-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund-Atalanta in the Football Italia LIVEBLOG.

Reports in Italy claim that Tommaso Pobega has formally joined Bologna on a permanent deal from Milan after the Rossoblu secured a win over Torino on Sunday.

Italian midfielder Pobega is now fully owned by Serie A side Bologna after fulfilling the terms required to convert his initial loan into a permanent transfer.

Milan to get €7m from Pobega’s permanent transfer

Italian transfer expert Nicolò Schira reports on X social media that the Rossoneri will earn €7m and that Pobega has signed a contract until 2030.

Pobega spent the last two seasons on loan at the Stadio Dall’Ara, and according to PianetaMilan, his permanent transfer was just a formality as Bologna would complete his purchase after securing at least one point starting from February 1, 2026.

The Rossoblu had lost against Milan and Parma earlier this month, but secured an away 2-1 win at Torino this past weekend, leading to Pobega’s permanent move.

The Italian midfielder has scored seven goals and provided five assists in 55 appearances at Bologna.

Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri says Christian Pulisic is in doubt for tomorrow’s Serie A match against Como, while Inter remain the ‘clear favourites’ in the race for the title.

• Read more – Allegri weighs in on diving debate and asks for offside rule change

Milan prepre to host Como at San Siro in a rescheduled Serie A fixture from Round 24 on Wednesday. It was not played earlier this month as the Winter Olympics’ opening ceremony took place at the Stadio Meazza in San Siro.

Santiago Gimenez is injured, and Adrien Rabiot is suspended for Milan, but Pulisic is also not fully fit.

Milan team news ahead of Como clash

“Aside from Rabiot, who is suspended, the others feel quite well. Saelemaekers is available, and I hope the same goes for Pulisic, because he still feels discomfort. Let’s see if he’ll be there. Gimenez will return soon,” Allegri said at a press conference via Milannews.

When asked about Rabiot’s replacement, Allegri replied: “I haven’t decided yet. Jashari feels well, and I must decide. Adrien is okay, he’s improved technically, phisically and mentally. Those who play tomorrow will have a great performance.”

Milan, however, can rely on another top-class player in central midfield, Luka Modric: “The secret of Luka is that he has passion and a visceral love for football that drives him to deliver these performances,” Allegri argued.

“He apologises and gets angry with himself when he misplaces a pass, one out of every 50 or 60 he makes. The calmness with which he approaches training sessions and matches is something others have a lot to learn from. When the decisive moment of the game comes, Luka’s expression changes. And that is something you see in great champions.”

Neither Rafael Leao nor Pulisic started in the last two Serie A games for Milan, but will Leao make it to the Rossoneri XI this time?

“It’s hard to give a percentage. Let’s say he’s okay. He had quite a good training session yesterday,” Allegri replied.

“Like Pulisic, he’s had some physical issues this season, but also scored important goals. Surely, they’ll do very well in the final part of the season when games will change, and we’ll need technical players.”

Como coach Fabregas showed frustration after Milan’s 3-1 win against the Azzurri last month.

“There’s no debate. I think Como and Fabregas are doing an excellent job. They are in the race for the Champions League,” Allegri said.

“They’ve done a great job in a short time, so we can only congratulate them. In some moments, you play well, in others not so well. For Milan, it is important to get a result through performances, which can be good or not so good. The main target is to reach the Champions League.”

A reporter asked whether the referee controversy in Inter-Juventus could affect his team.

“Why? We are doing good things. Inter were the clear title favourites; they were the favourites with Napoli, and now they are even more,” Allegri replied.

“There are still many games remaining. Juve, Napoli, Roma, Como. We have to remain calm. Once we are in the Champions League, we’ll see.

“We aren’t the only thing fighting for the title: 13 games are remaining, and anything can still happen. Caution is needed at both ends of the table. We must not waste energy on situations happening outside. Right now, blinders are needed.”

Milan director Igli Tare was fined €10,000 after the Rossoneri’s 2-1 win over Pisa on Friday as he ‘aggressively’ protested the referee on the field at full-time.

Milan director Tare was fined by the Serie A sports judge following a 2-1 win over Pisa on Friday.

Tare fined after Pisa 1-2 Milan

The Rossoneri sporting director will have to pay €10,000 as he “aggressively contested the referee’s decisions” after entering the pitch at full-time.

Milan had been given a penalty kick in the second half, which was missed by Niclas Fullkrug, but also saw their midfielder, Adrien Rabiot, sent off. The Frenchman received two yellow cards, the second one for dissent in the dying minutes.

Rabiot will miss tomorrow’s Serie A game against Como, a rescheduled league fixture from round 24, which was not played earlier this month because of the Winter Olympics opening ceremony taking place at San Siro.

The sports judge also confirmed a fine for Juventus director Damien Comolli and a ban for both him and Chiellini.

Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni will join Cristian Chivu for a pre-match press conference today, talking for the first time after Saturday’s controversial Serie A match against Juventus.

Inter star Bastoni will talk to the media today, on the eve of a Champions League knockout play-off first leg against Bodo/Glimt, as reported by Sky Sport Italia.

It’s technically a pre-match press conference, but Bastoni will inevitably face questions about the incident that led to a red card for Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu in Saturday’s Serie A match against Juventus.

Bastoni appeared to go down too easily on contact with the Bianconeri defender, causing a second yellow card for his opponent.

Bastoni received criticism from fans and media as he not only dived to deceive the referee, but also celebrated as soon as the red card was shown.

Some even suggested that Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso should drop Bastoni due to his behaviour, while the defender has been forced to disable comments on his social media accounts and those of his wife after receiving a wave of abusive messages following the match.

Inter have travelled to Bodo/Glimt without Hakan Calhanoglu and Davide Frattesi. Chivu and Bastoni will hold their press conference from Norway at 17:15 CET (16:15 GMT).

Sky Sport Italia reports that Inter midfielders Hakan Calhanoglu and Davide Frattesi won’t be available for a Champions League match against Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday.

Inter have travelled to Norway for the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off against Bodo/Glimt without their midfielders Calhanoglu and Frattesi.

Why Calhanoglu and Frattesi will miss Bodo/Glimt vs. Inter

As reported by Sky Sport Italia, Calhanoglu will miss the match due to muscle fatigue, while Frattesi has had a fever.

Calhanoglu had only just returned to action after spending a month on the sidelines, making a substitute appearance against Juventus on Saturday.

The Turkey international, 32, has already missed nine games across all competitions due to injuries this term.

Inter will visit Bodo/Glimt tomorrow, Wednesday, February 18, at 21:00 CET, while two other Serie A clubs play in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off later today.

Luciano Spalletti’s Juventus will visit Galatasaray at 18:45 CET, while Raffaele Palladino’s Atalanta play away at Borussia Dortmund at 21:00 CET.

Victor Osimhen praises Luciano Spalletti and denies disagreements with his ex-Napoli coach: ‘He worked night and day to convince us that we could win the Scudetto.’

Spalletti and Osimhen reunite in Istanbul this evening, when the Nigerian striker will lead Galatasaray against Juventus in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.

“It will be exciting to face a top club. We know we have no room for distractions because any error against them can cost dearly, and then I’ll reunite with Spalletti,” the striker told Gazzetta.

Osimhen and Spalletti won the Serie A title at Napoli in 2022-23, but the coach left the Stadio Maradona in 2023, while the striker moved to Galatasaray a year later.

During his interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Osimhen explained what led to his departure from Naples, claiming that the Partenopei treated him “like a dog” before his exit in 2024.

Osimhen, however, spoke positively about Spalletti, insisting that they shared a good relationship.

“People said we argued, but it wasn’t true. I respect him so much,” Osimhen said.

“He slept for months in the Napoli training centre, working night and day to convince us that we could win the Scudetto. He brought Kim, Anguissa, Kvaratskhelia and me in our best condition, winning with the club that hadn’t done it for years.

“He was very demanding, but he also gave you so much in return. Certain coaches make you grow first as a man and then as a footballer.”

Osimhen added that Juventus tried to sign him in 2024 through their previous director, Cristiano Giuntoli, when Spalletti was the Italy national team coach.

Under Spalletti, Osimhen scored 49 goals in 71 Napoli appearances across two seasons.

Former Napoli star Victor Osimhen says the Partenopei treated him ‘like a dog’ before his move to Galatasaray, but Antonio Conte wanted him to stay, and Juventus tried to sign him through Cristiano Giuntoli.

Osimhen confirms Juventus tried to sign him in 2024 before completing an initial loan deal to Galatasaray, which was made permanent a year later.

• Read more – Champions League: Galatasaray vs. Juventus – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV

“Yes, but I could have been in two other top Serie A clubs today,” Osimhen told Gazzetta.

“[Ex-Juventus director] Giuntoli called me to take me to Juve before negotiations with Galatasaray began. I spoke with a couple of people from the club. They showed interest, but I knew that he [Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis] wouldn’t let me leave. In any case, the interest was definitely there. And when Juventus call, regardless of everything, you sit down and listen.”

When Osimhen left the club in 2024, he was no longer on good terms with De Laurentiis, and it’s no coincidence that the striker never mentioned the Napoli owner in his interview.

Osimhen has made history at Napoli, contributing to winning the Serie A title in 2022-23 under Luciano Spalletti.

That season, Osimhen became the top-Serie A goalscorer, but things started going downhill from the following campaign.

In September 2023, Napoli mocked Osimhen on TikTok after the Nigerian had missed a penalty kick against Bologna.

“I feel sorry for the fans, also because I never spoke about what happened before,” said the striker.

“Some of them even came to my house asking for explaination. I asked them to put themselves in my shoes. After Napoli posted that video on TikTok, something broke.

“Anyone can miss a penalty, and anyone can be mocked for it. Napoli did it only to me, and with certain kinds of insinuations as well. I was the victim of racist insults, and I made my decision. I wanted to leave. I deleted the photos of me wearing the Napoli shirt from my Instagram, and they took the opportunity to turn the fans against me. And to think that, for me, my daughter is more Neapolitan than Nigerian.

“No one ever publicly apologised for what happened. After that famous video, Edoardo De Laurentiis called me several times. That’s it. Meanwhile, rumours were going around that I arrived late at training, and that I argued with teammates. They’re all lies. I’m sorry for the fans, but I understand and admire them: they support the club, no matter what. For them, Napoli comes before everything.”

Osimhen extended his contract with Napoli in December 2023, but already knew he’d not stay at the club long-term.

“We had a gentleman’s agreement according to which I could leave the following summer, but the commitment was not fully respected on the other side,” Osimhen recalled.

“They tried to send me anywhere to play, but they treated me like a dog. Go here, go there, do this, do that. I worked so hard to build my career, and I couldn’t accept that kind of treatment. I’m not a puppet.”

When Conte was appointed in 2024, Osimhen was already on his way out of Napoli, but according to the striker, the coach wanted him to stay.

“Of course, even if some people said he didn’t want me. Are we serious? Which coach at that moment wouldn’t have wanted me? As soon as he arrived, Conte called me into his office and said he was aware of the situation but that, despite everything, he wanted me to stay.

“I said I would have liked to work with him, but then I had made my decision: I didn’t want to keep working in a place where I didn’t feel happy.”

Osimhen is now in his second season at Galatasaray.

“I found a club and a city that I love. Maybe it was a stroke of luck. As soon as you arrive in Istanbul, you understand why anyone who has played here has fallen in love with the team and the people. I had never experienced anything like it,” he concluded.

Tonight, the Turkish giants will meet Spalletti’s Juventus in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.

Gianluca Scamacca is expected to lead the Atalanta attack in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off, away at Borussia Dortmund.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund.

Atalanta have travelled to Germany without the injured Charles De Ketelaere and Giacomo Raspadori, so they are short of options in attack.

Italy international Scamacca started the last two Serie A games on the bench, but is expected to return to the Atalanta XI tonight.

Nicola Zalewski will be one of the two attacking midfielders for La Dea, while the other spot will be taken by Lazar Samardzic or Mario Pasalic, who is the favourite to get the nod, according to Gazzetta and Tuttosport.

Davide Zappacosta will start as a right midfielder for Atalanta, while Lorenzo Bernasconi will play on the opposite flank.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 3 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates for this match and Galatasaray-Juventus (18:45 CET) on a liveblog.

Borussia Dortmund vs. Atalanta – probable line-ups

Borussia Dortmund (3-4-2-1): Kobel; Ryerson, Anton, Bensebaini; Yan Couto, Bellingham, Nmecha, Svensson; Beier; Brandt; Guirassy.

Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Hien, Djimsiti; Zappacosta, Ederson, De Roon, Bernasconi; Pasalic, Zalewski; Krstovic.

Weston McKennie will start as a false nine for Juventus in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off against Galatasaray.

It kicks off at 18:45 CET (17:45 GMT) at the Ali Sami Yen Stadium in Istanbul.

Juventus have travelled to the Turkish capital without the injured Dusan Vlahovic, Arek Milik, Emil Holm and Jonathan David.

Lois Openda is the only centre-forward available for the Serie A giants, but according to several sources, including Gazzetta and Tuttosport, USMNT star McKennie will be deployed as a false nine.

Khephren Thuram is available after missing Saturday’s Serie A match against Inter. The Frenchman is expected to start alongside Manuel Locatelli in central midfield.

The Old Lady’s defensive line won’t change with Pierre Kalulu, Gleison Bremer, Lloyd Kelly and Andrea Cambiaso.

Former Napoli star Victor Osimhen, who won the Scudetto at Napoli in 2022-23 under Luciano Spalletti, will start up front for Galatasaray.

The 27-year-old has scored 15 goals in 22 appearances across all competitions this season.

Galatasaray vs. Juventus – where to watch on TV

The match will be shown on TNT Sports 1 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.

Galatasaray vs. Juventus – probable line-ups

Galatasaray (4-2-3-1): Cakir; Sallai, Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakci, Jakobs; Torreira, Sara; Yilmaz, Yunus Akgün, Lang; Osimhen.

Juventus (4-2-3-1): Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Kelly, Cambiaso; Locatelli, Thuram; Conceição, Miretti, Yildiz; McKennie.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

What a brawl

But give us Europe

Endless Inter-Juve and a Champions League not to miss.

Spalletti: ‘Chivu made Kalulu look silly.’ Marotta: ‘Public shaming of Bastoni. Cuadrado dived too.’

The first leg play-off begins at 18:45 with the Bianconeri at Galatasaray’s home.

The yellow wall is a test for Atalanta.

Milan don’t give up

Fewer games and the derby: Allegri believes in it.

Corriere dello Sport

‘Marotta: ‘Juve, what a favour.’

Tough reply from the Inter President to Elkann’s club

‘With Cuadrado’s simulation on Perisic, the Bianconeri earned 70m. Chiellini? Inexperienced director. Bastoni made a mistake, but was subject to public shaming.’ La Penna spoke to the prosecutor yesterday: more threats, investigation opened.

Lucio, only Turkish things

Double clash

Play-off Champions: In Istanbul the first leg against Galatasaray, but it’s still derby

‘Chivu made Kalulu look silly.’

‘Simulations offend football. Cristian’s claims would also give me the chance to talk about Inter players.’ Waiting for the judge: ‘Spalletti risks a ban like Chiellini and Comolli. David injured, McKennie to play as a No.9. Yildiz challenges Osi and Icardi. Atalanta, exam with Borussia (21).

Alisson breaks Napoli games

Totti: ‘Roma still my home.’

Lecce coup, Cagliari darkness

Tuttosport

McKennie, do you dare?

Champions play-off: Juve in Istanbul with Wes as a striker.

David is out in the first leg of the Champions League play-off. The versatile American will replace him. ‘I could even play in goal for Spalletti. Renewal? I hope to stay.’ Yildiz’s game, a prophet in his own land. Terim: ‘He’s an icon like Del Piero.’ Lucio attacks Inter: ‘Two injustices for Kalulu, it’s unacceptable that Chivu makes him look silly.’

Marotta, Cuadrado has nothing to do with this…

The Nerazzurri president reacts to accusations, but he slips by recalling an incident from 2021: ‘Juventus went to the Champions League thanks to a simulation. Bastoni made a mistake, but enough with the public shaming. Saviano? I don’t know who he is.’

Atalanta without fear in front of the yellow wall

Protests, Baroni flop, Serie B nightmare, Cairo on the ropes

It wasn’t a good look for Alessandro Bastoni  during Inter-Juventus when he caused and celebrated Pierre Kalulu’s red card, but it would be wrong to omit him from the Italy national team for this, writes Lorenzo Bettoni.

Why Bastoni should not face punishment with Italy national team

Some Italian fans and journalists called for Bastoni to be dropped from the Italy national team because of his behaviour in Inter-Juventus on Saturday. The Italy international not only deceived the referee with a dive that led to Kalulu’s second yellow card, but also wildly celebrated when the official showed the red.

Bastoni’s actions “didn’t align with the principles of fair play,” as Inter President Beppe Marotta has admitted, but this doesn’t mean the defender should be excluded from the Italy squad.

Several sources have already reassured that Gattuso will not take action, meaning that Bastoni will be part of the Italy squad next month when the Azzurri meet Northern Ireland in a vital World Cup play-off semi-final. Rightly so, I would say.

Again, what Bastoni did wasn’t nice to see, especially because we are talking about one of the best Italian players and one of the supposed leaders in the Azzurri dressing room, who should set the example rather than trying to cause even more confusion to the referee.

Sadly, Bastoni is not alone in this. Over the last few months, the quality of refereeing in Serie A has hit new lows one week after another, but match officials have not been helped by footballers in any way.

Every time, in every game, we see players going down in pain for the slightest touches, hoping that a VAR check would spot a step-on-foot and a resulting penalty. Too many times, footballers, especially in Serie A, overreact whenever an opponent goes for a challenge, hoping to cause whatever punishment.

VAR has surely caused more problems than those it has solved this term. It’s been overused far too much for minor incidents, but, ironically, the protocol didn’t allow it to intervene to save Kalulu from being sent off on Saturday, given that his foul was a second-yellow card offence.

The Bastoni incident has been blown out of proportion because of the scale of the game, but it should also be a turning point from which footballers have to show a different attitude towards referees by sticking to the principles of the game without unnecessary drama that only makes the game more toxic.

Bastoni should not be punished by Gattuso for something that everybody, wrongly, does. And this is even more true ahead of the most important Italy game in the last four years.

On March 26, the Azzurri will be hosting Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the World Cup play-off semi-final. If they progress, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final, and if the Azzurri are to qualify for the World Cup, they need their best players and unity.

Hopefully, Bastoni won’t get the tough reception that Gigio Donnarumma has sometimes experienced during Italy games in the past, especially in his first years at PSG. Club-related matters must be set aside during the next international break as Gennaro Gattuso will need unity on and off the pitch to avoid another World Cup fiasco.

Many Juventus fans won’t agree with this, but not even Juventus would want or need Bastoni to be dropped from the Italy squad. The Bianconeri didn’t hold back criticism towards Italian referees on Saturday, calling for immediate “change” but didn’t mention Bastoni directly during post-match interviews.

They know this sort of attitude is sadly part of the game sometimes, but referees should now have the tools to avoid affecting games so heavily.

Surely, Bastoni won’t be proud watching the replays of his dive and celebration, but he has a lesson to learn from this. Italian legends like Franco Baresi, Beppe Bergomi and Paolo Maldini earned the respect of their opponents, especially for the way they behaved on the pitch, and those who are now expected to lead the national team, such as Bastoni, must lead by example.

Moreover, there’s a lesson that all Serie A players should learn. The less that referee gets involved, the better it is for the game. Inter’s 2-2 draw against Napoli in January was one of the best games in Serie A this season, also because the match official, Daniele Doveri, rarely blew the whistle; only five times in the first half.

Too often, when an Italian team faces a Premier League side in Europe, we are shocked by the difference in the pace and intensity, which is also a consequence of how fragmented Serie A games are.

VAR has to change, players and referees must change too, but this doesn’t mean the Azzurri must go to a massive game without one of their best players.

Former Serie A coach Serse Cosmi responds to Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini, who complained about the officiating in the Bianconeri’s 3-2 loss against Inter: ‘I experienced what wasn’t football.’

Ex-Serie A coach Cosmi criticises Juventus director Chiellini, who had raged at a red card shown to Pierre Kalulu in Saturday’s Serie A match against Inter.

Kalulu’s red card infuriates Chiellini and Juventus

The French defender received a second yellow card for a foul on Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni, who appeared to go down too easily and then celebrated when his opponent was sent off.

Inter coach Cristian Chivu said the Juventus defender should not have put his hands on Bastoni, while Chiellini angrily confronted the referee inside the tunnel and then voiced his frustration to the media, arguing that it was “impossible to talk about football” after such a mistake.

“I didn’t like any of the words,” Cosmi told Sport Mediaset via Corriere dello Sport.

Cosmi tells Chiellini: ‘I experienced what wasn’t football’

“Not those Cristian Chivu, from whom I expected something different considering his intelligence, but I also didn’t like Giorgio Chiellini’s, who came to tell us this isn’t football. With all due respect, I experienced what wasn’t football.”

Cosmi’s reference was to the Calciopoli scandal in 2006, which saw Juventus being stripped of two titles and relegated to Serie B.

Cosmi was the Udinese coach in 2005-06, but remained in charge of the Bianconeri for just 24 games as he was sacked in February 2006.

Corriere dello Sport reports that the officiating in Inter-Juventus did not infuriate the Bianconeri only, but Milan are also upset, especially because the Rossoneri previously complained about other referee decisions this season.

Juventus are not the only Serie A side unhappy with the officiating in their latest Serie A match against Inter, which saw their defender Pierre Kalulu sent off with two yellow cards in the first half.

Milan unhappy with referee decisions in Inter vs. Juventus

As reported by Corriere dello Sport (via Calciomercato.com), there is also discontent within Milan about how such an important game was officiated, especially because the Rossoneri are challenging Inter in the race for the Scudetto.

Milan sit second in the standings, eight points below their city rivals, but Massimiliano Allegri’s men have a game in hand to be played this coming Wednesday at home against Como.

Previous Milan referee controversies

Milan have already voiced concerns over refereeing decisions they believe have had an impact on their season so far.

The latest incident was on Friday, when Adrien Rabiot was sent off for dissent in an away 2-1 win at Pisa.

The Frenchman received two yellow cards, so he’ll miss tomorrow’s match against Como.

Back in December, the Rossoneri were held to a 2-2 home draw by Sassuolo, but had a Christian Pulisic goal disallowed for a foul from Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the build-up.

Roma legend Francesco Totti confirms he’s in talks to return to the club as a director and reveals he ‘had dinner’ with Giallorossi coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Former Roma striker Totti confirms he’s in talks with the Giallorossi over his potential return to the Stadio Olimpico as a club director.

Totti confirms talks for return to Roma

Senior advisor Claudio Ranieri surprisingly revealed a few weeks ago that Roma owners were considering bringing back the club legend with an operative role in the control room.

“I’ve always been a fan. To me, Roma is my home; it’s always been, even if I’m not there. I’m happy with what they are doing and their path,” Totti told Sky Sport Italia on Monday (via Repubblica).

“There have been rumours lately. It’s true, we are talking, discussing some details and deciding what’s best for everyone. I hope we can solve this situation soon. Sooner or later, surely we are talking about it.”

The legendary Italian striker went on to praise Roma boss Gasperini, who was appointed last summer.

Totti: ‘I had dinner with Gasperini’

“He has started on the right foot, and we are cheering him on for a return to the Champions League. I had dinner with him, and we spoke a bit about everything, not just about football,” Totti concluded.

Roma sit fourth in the Serie A standings after an away 2-2 draw at Napoli on Sunday.

The Giallorossi have collected 47 points, one more than fifth-placed Juventus, who they’ll host at the Olimpico in a crucial Serie A match on March 1.

Totti spent his entire playing career at Roma, scoring 307 goals in 786 games and winning the Serie A title in 2000-01.

According to Sport Mediaset, Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti told Inter President Beppe Marotta ‘you made a pig’s ear of it’ as the Bianconeri protested for a red card shown to Pierre Kalulu.

More details emerge after a brutal confrontation between Juventus directors and referee Federico La Penna during the halftime break of Saturday’s Serie A match Inter-Juventus.

What Spalletti told Marotta during Inter-Juventus

The Bianconeri were furious for a red card given to Kalulu minutes before the break, prompting directors Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli to face the referee inside the tunnel at halftime.

Spalletti separated Comolli and the match official, but according to Sport Mediaset, the Italian tactician also addressed Inter President Marotta, telling him: “You made a pig’s ear of it.”

Bans for Comolli and Chiellini after Inter-Juventus?

The heated confrontation between Juventus directors and the match official will likely lead to a ban for Comolli and Chiellini, according to reports in Italy.

Today, Marotta hit back at criticism from the Old Lady, recalling previous referee decisions that went in favour of the Bianconeri

Juventus striker Jonathan David has been ruled out of tomorrow’s Champions League match against Galatasaray due to a groin injury.

Juventus have travelled to Istanbul to face Galatasaray without Canada star David.

Why David is not available for Galatasaray vs. Juventus

The ex-Lille forward is not part of the Bianconeri squad list released just a few minutes ago.

According to Sky Sport Italia, David has been omitted due to a groin injury.

David had been subbed off in the second half of an away game at Inter on Saturday in what appeared to be a tactical substitution.

Dusan Vlahovic and Arkadiusz Milik are also unavailable for the upcoming European fixture, so Lois Openda will be the only centre-forward available for the Old Lady in Istanbul.

David started in the last eight Serie A games for Juventus.

He has scored seven goals and provided five assists in 34 appearances across all competitions this season, including two in the Champions League.

Tomorrow, February, Tuesday 17, Juventus visit Galatasaray in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.

Juventus squad list vs. Galatasaray

La lista dei convocati per la sfida di #UCL di domani in trasferta in Turchia #GalatasarayJuve pic.twitter.com/xrEymkcn0x

— JuventusFC (@juventusfc) February 16, 2026

Scotland international Billy Gilmour is delighted to have returned to action for Napoli after ’10 long weeks’ on the sidelines: ‘No feeling like being on the pitch.’

Gilmour returned to action for the first time since November on Sunday, making a substitute appearance in Napoli’s 2-2 home draw against Roma.

Gilmour returns to action for Napoli

The Scotland international was introduced in the second half and contributed to the Partenopei’s equaliser with a through ball in the build-up to Alisson Santos’ first goal for the defending Serie A champions.

“First steps in 2026,” Gilmour wrote on Instagram.

“No feeling like being on the pitch & none bigger or better than doing it in front of your support. 10 long weeks, now back doing what I love with this team. Forza Napoli Sempre.”

Gilmour spent over 2 months on the sidelines

Gilmour underwent surgery in November 2025 due to a groin injury and had missed the previous 23 matches with the Partenopei.

 

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Un post condiviso da Billy Gilmour (@billygilmour)

Inter President Beppe Marotta feels Alessandro Bastoni has been subject to ‘excessive media exposure’ and hits back at Juventus, saying that a ‘clear simulation’ of Juan Cuadrado in 2021 allowed the Bianconeri to beat the Nerazzurri and qualify for the Champions League.

The controversy surrounding Inter-Juventus and a red card shown to Pierre Kalulu on Saturday is far from over.

Inter President Marotta spoke to reporters on Monday ahead of a Lega Serie A meeting in Milan, saying (via Calciomercato.com): “I’m here because we have fought against excessive media exposure, a public shaming of Bastoni that goes beyond what actually happened. A young man who represents an asset for our national team, it is unfair to put his participation in doubt.

“Who doesn’t make mistakes? Since the 1950s, there have been players, no names mentioned, famous for actions like this. We are facing, in my view, an ordinary event, not an extraordinary one. Reprehensible, but also due to other circumstances, such as the wide arm,” Marotta continued.

Marotta recalls referee mistake that qualified Juventus for Champions League

“Last season, we lost the Scudetto by one point, and there was a confirmed error in Inter-Roma, but we didn’t protest. This season, Inter have only intervened once, after Napoli-Inter, where a penalty kick, later deemed unfair, had been given.”

Italian media already reported that Inter felt Juventus’ reaction was blown out of proportion, a view strongly confirmed by Marotta.

“If we talk about simulations, I want to remember Juventus-Inter in 2021 and a penalty given despite a clear simulation from Cuadrado with Calvarese as a referee,” he said.

“Afterwards, both the referee and the technical bodies confirmed it had been an obvious simulation, and with that win, Juventus qualified for the Champions League, which is worth €60-70m.”

Marotta admitted that Bastoni’s simulation against Juventus was against the principles of fair play, and also called for stronger sanctions.

“We need to take responsibility: AIA, clubs and FIGC, all institutions,” he added.

Marotta on Chiellini and Bastoni

“We need to engage in a broad and calm discussion, toughening disciplinary penalties, especially financial ones. Too often, things go beyond the line, and that is unacceptable. Bastoni’s gesture does not align with the principles of fair play. Repression is not part of my approach. Prevention, however, is possiblethrough dialogue. There is often a lack of knowledge of the rules, which players in particular should be familiar with.”

Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini was particularly critical of the officiating as he and Damien Comolli showed up in front of the media after the match on Saturday night, while coach Luciano Spalletti remained silent.

Marotta had greeted Chiellini at San Siro, but didn’t seem impressed by the ex-defender’s claims.

“It was the least I could do as he was one of my players,” he concluded, via Gazzetta.

“Today, he’s a young and inexperienced director, but I do not dare give him suggestions.”

Fabio Capello was ‘upset’ to see Alessandro Bastoni’s ‘obvious simulation’ during Inter-Juventus but was also disappointed by Cristian Chivu, even if ‘his actions matter more than words.’

• Read more – Inter’s support for Bastoni after social media threats, but Juventus overreacted – report

Former Italian coach Capello strongly criticised Inter defender Bastoni and Nerazzurri coach Chivu in his latest column for Gazzetta dello Sport.

During Saturday’s game against Juventus, Bastoni had tricked the referee by going down too easily on a Pierre Kalulu challenge, causing a second yellow for the Bianconeri defender just before the break.

Capello: Bastoni ‘can’t behave like that’

“Two things struck me in particular. The first: a player like Bastoni, of international calibre and a key figure in our national team, cannot and, above all, must not behave like that,” wrote Capello.

“It was very upsetting for all the football fans to see him deceive the referee with an obvious simulation, especially since he was already booked and therefore risking a second yellow card.”

Inter coach Chivu refused to blame Bastoni during his post-match interviews, suggesting that Kalulu should have avoided putting his hands on his defender.

Before the game, however, the Inter coach had stated that he wouldn’t comment on a referee unless he heard a Serie A coach openly acknowledge a favourable referee decision.

“Second thing,” continued Capello.

Capello: Chivu’s ‘actions matter more’ than his words

“I know Chivu very well, as he was one of my players at Roma, but his words after the game deeply disappointed me. The Inter coach was not consistent with what he had said on the eve of the match, and in the end, he gave the impression of justifying what happened.

“More than his words, however, his actions matter. Chivu substituted Bastoni at halftime because he knew exactly that he would be at risk if he stayed on the pitch. I would have expected statements of a very different tone, especially after a victory.”

Inter and Juventus both return to action mid-week as both sides have European commitments.

The Bianconeri will visit Galatasaray on Tuesday, while Inter will play away at Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.

Hellas Verona striker Gift Orban calls for ‘equal treatment on the pitch’ after being shown an early red card in a Serie A game against Parma: ‘As a Black player in Italy, I can’t ignore how often we’re treated differently.’

Verona striker Orban complained about a straight red card he received in the opening minutes of an eventual 2-1 loss at Parma on Sunday.

Orban: Black players ‘treated differently’ in Serie A

The Nigeria international had been given his marching orders after just 10 minutes, with his team already down one goal.

Orban appeared to calmly protest for a potential foul from a Parma defender, but the referee was quick to stop the play to show the 23-year-old a red card.

“Sent off for protesting a decision. As a Black player in Italy, I can’t ignore how often we’re treated differently,” Orban added on X social media.

“I love the game, and all I ask for is fairness, respect, and equal treatment on the pitch.”

Orban has scored seven goals and provided two assists in 22 Serie A appearances with Verona this season.

This is his first season in Serie A, but his positive performances still couldn’t help Verona in their race for survival as the Gialloblu sit at the bottom of the table alongside Pisa with 15 points.

Verona didn’t send their coach to comment on the game at full-time as a sign of protest. They only released a statement, which, however, didn’t mention racism issues: “A very serious lack of respect towards a team, a city, a community and a fanbase,” the club said.

“We always accept mistakes, just as we make them ourselves. However, we believe that the sending off after ten minutes play, based on what was seen on the field and what we were told, is a signal of disrespect.”

Inter have shown support for their star Alessandro Bastoni after the Italian defender was subjected to social media abuse, and according to Gazzetta, the Nerazzurri feel the Juventus’ reaction was blown out of proportion.

Inter directors and coach Cristian Chivu sent support to their defender Bastoni on Sunday.

Inter send support to Bastoni

The Italy international had received hate messages and threats on social media after celebrating Pierre Kalulu’s red card during Inter-Juventus. Bastoni went down far too easily in a challenge with the French defender, causing a second yellow card.

Tension is so high that, according to Repubblica, Bastoni’s decision to disable comments on his social media accounts and those of his wife came under suggestion from the Italian Police.

According to Gazzetta, Bastoni was taken aback by the scale of online abuse, which even extended to his younger daughter. Italian sources claim that Bastoni spoke for a long time on the phone with Chivu and Inter directors on Sunday, receiving full support from his club.

‘No one at Inter considers him a diver in the slightest, with everyone viewing the incident as nothing more than a simple yellow-card incident,’ wrote Gazzetta.

Inter unhappy with Juventus’ reaction

At the same time, the Nerazzurri feel that the Juventus’ reaction was blown out of proportion as the Bianconeri directors confronted the referee inside the tunnel at half-time and sent Giorgio Chiellini and Damien Comolli in front of the media after the match, rather than coach Luciano Spalletti.

Gazzetta notes that Chiellini’s pointed comments after the match particularly rubbed Inter the wrong way. Having won the 2021 Euros alongside Bastoni, the former Juventus defender is regarded by the Inter star as one of the best centre-backs of the past decade, having seen firsthand the full spectrum of the ex-national captain’s skills, including his shrewdness in certain defensive situations.

Reports in Italy suggest that Juventus directors Damien Comolli and Giorgio Chiellini face a possible ban for a tunnel confrontation with referee Federico La Penna during a tense Serie A match against Inter.

Juventus directors Comolli and Chiellini could be punished following their heated protests against referee La Penna during the half-time break of Saturday’s Serie A match against Inter.

Furious Chiellini and Comolli confronted Inter-Juventus referee

A video that has gone viral on social media shows the two directors facing the match official just inside the tunnel at the Stadio Meazza as the two teams head to the dressing room at half-time.

La Penna had sent off Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu just a few minutes earlier, infuriating the Bianconeri players and their directors.

Comolli attempted to confront La Penna directly, but Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti stepped in to hold him back, while Chiellini voiced his anger toward the referee.

Report Juventus director Comolli risks two-month ban

As reported by Gazzetta, referee La Penna likely mentioned the incident in his post-match report, which would lead to a suspension for both Chiellini and Comolli.

Without an official report from the referee, the FIGC Prosecutor would need to open a formal investigation.

Gazzetta notes that ‘while Chiellini’s remarks seem like strong criticism and are not necessarily insulting, Comolli’s verbal attack risks being considered as such and, consequently, could lead to a ban of at least two months.’

Reports in Italy claim that Gennaro Gattuso will continue to rely on Inter star Alessandro Bastoni despite criticism over the defender’s behaviour during the Derby d’Italia against Juventus.

• Read more – Bastoni forced to silence fans on social media after insults following Derby d’Italia

Inter defender Bastoni will continue to be part of the Italy squad, as coach Gattuso is not considering dropping him following controversies in Inter-Juventus.

Gattuso won’t drop Bastoni for Italy games

Bastoni infuriated fans on Saturday as he went down far too easily in a challenge from Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, causing his second yellow card.

Bastoni celebrated widely when his opponent was shown a red card, prompting fans and some journalists in Italy to suggest he should be dropped from the Italy squad next month.

Italian sports papers, including Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport, however, claim that Gattuso is not even considering leaving Bastoni at home.

Crucial match for Italy in March

The Azzurri have a crucial match coming up as they’ll host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semifinal on March 26.

If they progress, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final and, if fit, Bastoni will surely be part of the Italy squad.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Inter-Juve, the tunnel like a ring: FIGC investigation, possible sanctions

Bastoni threatened, will play for the Azzurri. Rocchi: ‘Too many simulations.’ La Penna stop.

Malen scores twice, Alisson’s equaliser makes Napoli happy.

Corriere dello Sport

La Penna reports, Elkann calls Gravina

Death threats to the referee who calls the Postal Police. The Exor CEO: ‘Solutions now, Italian football must defend its credibility.’ Rocchi: ‘Bastoni simulated, everyone tries to trick us.’

Alisson Santos ruins Roma’s party

Malen freezes the Maradona. Spinazzola equalises. The Dutchman scores the 2-1, but Conte’s move proves decisive. The ex-Sporting is introduced and locks the third spot.

Tuttosport

Elkann to Gravina: ‘Respect us!’

John calls the FIGC President: ‘Repeated errors, solutions are needed to defend football.’ Not just Kalulu, Comolli, Chiellini and Spalletti risk bans too. Bastoni covered by insults, cancels himself from social media with his wife. Rocchi attacks divers.

Toro: Cairo and Baroni, endless pain

The Granata revive Bologna. The stadium was still half-empty. The President was insulted for the entire game, but the coach: ‘I feel trust.’

Juventus’ second-choice goalkeeper Mattia Perin confronted Cristian Chivu’s assistant, Aleksandar Kolarov, at full-time last night, while Inter star Nicolò Barella rushed onto the pitch to celebrate with his teammates.

It was another memorable and controversial Derby d’Italia on Saturday as Inter beat Juventus 3-2 at San Siro.

Juventus’ complaints over Pierre Kalulu’s red dominate media coverage the morning after, and Football Italia takes you back to the Stadio Meazza with three details you may have missed on TV. We were among the accredited press at San Siro last night: here’s what didn’t make it onto your screen.

Juventus’ protests

Referee Federico La Penna didn’t have his best night as he showed two debatable yellow cards to Kalulu in the opening 45 minutes. The second one, and the resulting red card, was given just minutes before the break, so tempers flared as the teams headed down the tunnel to the dressing rooms for the half-time break. Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli continued to protest to La Penna while walking towards the tunnel as coach Spalletti waited on the sidelines. The Italian tactician warmly hugged Inter captain Lautaro Martinez as the Argentine left the field and then walked down the stairs just in front of La Penna, while Bianconeri directors Damien Comolli and Giorgio Chiellini waited for the match official inside the tunnel to voice their discontent.

Support for Di Gregorio

Juventus full-back Andrea Cambiaso experienced a rollercoaster first half, finding the net at both ends. His own goal handed Inter the advantage, though the ball also slipped in after a delayed reaction from Bianconeri keeper Michele Di Gregorio.

Moments after drawing Juventus level, Di Gregorio was applauded afar by third-choice keeper Carlo Pinsoglio, who stepped out of the technical area on the touchline to wave his encouragement as the Bianconeri fought their way back into the contest.

Tension at full-time

As soon as the referee blew the final whistle, Inter star Barella rushed onto the pitch to celebrate with his teammates. The Italy international had been subbed off earlier in the second half. Barella ran onto the pitch with a leap and a spin, twirling around himself. Inevitably, tension skyrocketed on the other side. As soon as the referee signalled full-time, Juventus’ Mattia Perin walked towards the Inter bench to confront some members of the Nerazzurri’s staff, especially Kolarov, Chivu’s assistant and a former Nerazzurri and Roma defender. The confrontation didn’t last long as the pair quickly cleared the air. The Old Lady’s protests continued in the dressing room with directors Comolli and Chiellini urging referee designator Gianluca Rocchi to resign.