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Conte rage at referee and Napoli injury crisis after Coppa Italia elimination

Antonio Conte explained his anger at the referee after the Coppa Italia shoot-out exit to Como, but above all the injury crisis. ‘We’re having an incredibly positive season, in the circumstances.’

They were held to a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, as Antonio Vergara struck at the dawn of the second half to cancel out the Martin Baturina penalty.

There was a great deal of controversy too, as at the 50th minute Jacobo Ramon was fortunate not to receive a second yellow card for his foul on Rasmus Hojlund on the edge of the penalty area.

Even the first card caused some anger on the touchline, as some thought Ramon’s foul on Hojlund was enough to warrant a straight red for denying a clear scoring opportunity.

Conte fuming at referee after Napoli exit

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“Let’s not always go and talk about referees, because there’s always going to be someone complaining,” Conte told Sport Mediaset when asked immediately about those decisions.

“It’s certainly not a good season for referees and for VAR, I hope they can find something that will improve the situation. The fact is, everyone is complaining, coaches, players and fans, so the sport needs to step up and improve, because just as we improve our teams, Rocchi has to improve his referees and VAR officials.

“It’s not good for football, it’s not good for us.”

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy.  (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

It went to not just a penalty shoot-out, but sudden death, where the decisive errors were made by Romelu Lukaku and Stanislav Lobotka.

“I credit the lads, because it was certainly not easy to face a Como side with a full squad available, who had rested for 10 days,” continued Conte.

“We were coming off a game played against Genoa three days ago, which we ended with 10 men and lost another player to injury, as Scott McTominay is so important for us.”

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, head coach of SSC Napoli, looks down in disappointment during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, head coach of SSC Napoli, looks down in disappointment during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

The Partenopei were already out of the Champions League and are now eliminated from the Coppa Italia in the quarter-final stage too.

“I can only praise these players, because we are pushing beyond our current potential. We have very few resources available, which are simply nowhere near the ambitions that we should’ve had for this season.

“Despite that, the lads are doing remarkably well. Como will go into the semi-final, we won the Supercoppa Italiana and the Scudetto in the last year and a half. It’s disappointing, because there are years where you’d want to do more, but considering the squad at our disposal right now, any coach would struggle.

“I thank the fans, who can see the effort we are putting in against a complete Como squad. Despite all the difficulties, we were centimetres away from qualifying for the semi-final.”

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures before the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures before the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

At least with only Serie A to focus on and one game per week, Conte was asked if he could promise Napoli can at least try to challenge Inter for the Scudetto now, and potentially find out why they’ve had so many injuries?

“What an absurd question,” he laughed bitterly.

“How can you predict Di Lorenzo’s injury, or Lukaku with a detached tendon, De Bruyne with damage to a tendon in a leg he already had an operation on, or Gilmour who needs surgery and spends months out. How can you predict that?

“What we can do is go to a shrine and pray, because these are injuries that last for the whole season. With six or seven important players out for months at a time, it forces the same ones to keep playing all the time, so that creates problems for McTominay and Rrahmani.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Conte, SSC Napoli head coach, gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“I don’t think this sort of thing has ever happened to another club. On top of that, I was told we couldn’t do anything on the transfer market either, we brought in two young lads to give us a hand.

“I think what we are doing this season is incredibly positive, in the circumstances. As for the Scudetto, there’s a nine-point gap, we have serious problems and you are talking about the Scudetto. Come on. There’s Inter, Milan, Roma, Juventus, even Como, what are we talking about?

“We have to be serious in questions and evaluations too, otherwise it all becomes ridiculous,” concluded a visibly angry Conte.

Fabregas revealed precious Como advice for penalties with Napoli

Cesc Fabregas reveals what he told Como about his experience ahead of the penalty shoot-out against Napoli to reach the Coppa Italia semi-final. ‘I’d been in their situation.’

The Lariani will face Inter in the Coppa Italia semi-final, a stage of the tournament this club had only ever reached once before in 1986, when once again they eliminated the reigning Serie A title holders.

It was Verona back then, but Napoli this time, needing a sudden death penalty shoot-out following the 1-1 draw at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Martin Baturina had converted the opening spot-kick before half-time, while Antonio Vergara scored the equaliser straight after the restart.

Fabregas taking Como to new heights

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“It is an historic achievement, a positive time, but we have another very important game coming up on Saturday. We must leave the euphoria to the end of the season,” Fabregas told Sport Mediaset.

“It will be tough to shake off the adrenaline, but we listened to music for 10 minutes in the locker room, now we will begin preparing for the weekend, as we want all three points.”

There was a moment of controversy on 50 minutes when Jacobo Ramon was very lucky not to receive a second yellow card for his foul on Rasmus Hojlund just outside the box.

Seeing that his player was fortunate, Fabregas immediately moved to substitute the defender moments later.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“Obviously, he would get sent off at the next foul, he is a 20-year-old who is lacking experience, this is his first full season as a professional. A good thing about being that young is you don’t feel the pressure, but the negative is that you can be a bit too free and easy as well.

“I had to take him off, because going down to 10 men in a situation like this would make everything far more difficult.”

The decisive errors in the shoot-out were Romelu Lukaku drilling wide and Jean Butez parrying from Stanislav Lobotka, while Vanja Milinkovic-Savic saved from Maximo Perrone.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy.  (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Romelu Lukaku of SSC Napoli reacts after missing a penalty in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“I thought the first half was good, but in the second less so, and unfortunately it’s not the first, second or even third time that has happened. It means we need to improve a few things,” noted Fabregas.

“We had from the start sent a positive signal, that we came here to play on the front foot and not just wait and defend. We did do things a little differently in defence today, because we didn’t press too high, as they have players with such quality who can find those spaces and hurt you.

“In order to compete in Serie A, you need a centre-forward of the level of Hojlund and he’s so good. I understand that Napoli had a lot of injuries, but we had suffered with quite a few injuries too in January and February, but with a young squad we always tried to take the initiative and play on the front foot.

“We moved to five at the back for a few minutes, as don’t forget we are Como, and we are a small club in this competition, so in that situation we preferred to lock it down.”

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Jean Butez of Como 1907 celebrates with his teammates after making the decisive save in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia Quarter Finals match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy.  (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Jean Butez of Como 1907 celebrates with his teammates after making the decisive save in the penalty shootout during the Coppa Italia Quarter Finals match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

In his speech to the team before the penalties, Fabregas told the Como players to ‘enjoy’ themselves, which is quite an ask in that tense atmosphere.

“I thanked them for giving me this experience as a coach, as a person, because many of them had never been through an experience like this, so it was fundamental they had belief, but also needed to enjoy this moment.

“I told them, I’d been in Napoli’s situation of being the ‘big’ team expected to win and that it adds a bit of fear. We were also lucky to be first in the draw, as that helps. I thanked the players for all they do, as removing a few older lads like Moreno, Morata and Alberto, the average age is 22.

“We need to maintain humility and keep working, because we’ve got three in a row now.”

The semi-final is the only stage of the Coppa Italia that is played over two legs, so with home and away fixtures, although it’s not a long trip in this Lombardy Derby.

The other semi-final is between Atalanta and either Bologna or Lazio.

Coppa Italia | Napoli 1-1 Como (6-7 pens): Sudden death sends Fabregas into semi-final

Como will face Inter in their first Coppa Italia semi-final for 40 years, after eliminating Antonio Conte’s Napoli in a sudden death penalty shoot-out, following the 1-1 draw.

The Partenopei lost Scott McTominay in a controversial 3-2 win over Genoa, so Eljif Elmas dropped into midfield with Giovane getting his first start upfront, as David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne were injured, but Vanja Milinkovic-Savic returned in goal. Como earned a 0-0 draw here in Serie A back in November, but were well rested as their Serie A Week 24 fixture with Milan was rescheduled to February 18.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 battles for possession with Giovane of SSC Napoli during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 battles for possession with Giovane of SSC Napoli during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Jayden Addai’s ambitious lob landed on the roof of the net in the opening minute, while Jean Butez rushed out of his area to nod clear when Rasmus Hojlund sprung the offside trap.

Juan Jesus needed a desperate block after Alex Valle shrugged off Pasquale Mazzocchi to get into the area, but Como were awarded a penalty.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Martin Baturina of Como 1907 celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Alex Valle got down the left and stood up a cross to the back post for Ivan Smolcic, who was brought down clumsily by Matias Olivera from behind. The Lariani have failed to convert numerous penalties this season, including one in their Serie A match against Napoli in November, but this time Baturina drilled it into the near bottom corner just beyond Milinkovic-Savic’s fingertips.

Como open the scoring in Naples! ⚫

Cesc Fàbregas' men take the lead as Martin Baturina converts from the spot 👏 pic.twitter.com/FG9XnHH0vl

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) February 10, 2026

Jacobo Ramon was inches away from giving Napoli a spot-kick, as he brought down Hojlund just outside the penalty area on a long goal kick and VAR evaluated, but decided against upgrading the yellow card to red.

The hosts equalised within 60 seconds of the restart, as Hojlund’s first-time flick in the centre-circle was probably supposed to be for Giovane, but instead kept rolling into the path of Vergara, who surged forward and kept his cool to beat Butez one-on-one.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates with teammate Pasquale Mazzocchi after scoring his team's first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Antonio Vergara of SSC Napoli celebrates with teammate Pasquale Mazzocchi after scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

There was controversy moments later, as Jacobo Ramon brought down Hojlund on the edge of the box and was very lucky not to receive his second booking. Inevitably, Cesc Fabregas took Ramon off to rescue him from danger, amid fury from Conte on the touchline.

Napoli were a different team to the first half, as Hojlund’s head only grazed a Sam Beukema cross, then on the resulting corner Amir Rrahmani’s header was cleared practically off the line by Nico Paz.

Tasos Douvikas couldn’t keep his header down on a Lucas Da Cunha free kick, but Mergim Vojvoda forced a great fingertip save out of Milinkovic-Savic at the near post.

NAPLES, ITALY - FEBRUARY 10: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – FEBRUARY 10: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli gestures during the Coppa Italia match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on February 10, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Just like in Serie A, the teams could not be divided, but here went straight into a penalty shoot-out. Como famously have a poor record from the spot this season, while Milinkovic-Savic is the best goalkeeper in the league on these situations.

Lukaku stepped up with a stuttering run-up only to drill it wide of the target, while Baturina beat Milinkovic-Savic for the second time this evening, but Maximo Perrone’s central attempt was parried.

It went to sudden death, and Milinkovic-Savic was so lucky, as his penalty went in off the underside of the bar and the back of Butez’s head.

They kept going until Butez parried the Stanislav Lobotka effort, sending Como through to their first Coppa Italia semi-final in 40 years.

Napoli 1-1 Como (6-7 on pens)

Baturina pen 39 (C), Vergara 46 (N)

Penalties: Da Cunha (C, goal), Politano (N, goal), Douvikas (C, goal), Lukaku (N, miss), Baturina (C, goal), Spinazzola (N, goal), Perrone (C, saved), Alisson Santos (N, goal), Smolcic (C, goal), Elmas (N, goal), Diego Carlos (C, goal), Milinkovic-Savic (N, goal), Vojvoda (C, goal), Gutierrez (N, goal), Valle (C, goal), Lobotka (N, saved)

10-02-2026 20:00
1/4 Final

Match statistic

48
Possession %
52
8
Total shots
9
3
Shots on target
4
1
Shots off target
2
4
Blocked shots
3
6
Corners
4
1
Offsides
3
13
Fouls
8
Napoli
Como

Starting lineups

32
13
Defender
5
Defender
17
Defender
60'
30
61'
31
Defender
26
Midfielder
74'
20
Midfielder
68
Midfielder
23
Attacker
61'
19
Attacker
74'
1
Goalkeeper
3
Defender
34
Defender
28
Defender
14
Defender
53'
20
Midfielder
6
Midfielder
53'
23
Midfielder
10
Midfielder
82'
8
Midfielder
67'
42
Attacker
67'

Substitutes

1
Goalkeeper
14
Goalkeeper
98
Midfielder
95
Midfielder
37
60'
21
Attacker
61'
27
Attacker
61'
9
Attacker
74'
3
74'
7
Attacker
22
Goalkeeper
77
18
Defender
19
Attacker
21
Goalkeeper
98
Attacker
Midfielder
11
53'
2
53'
33
Attacker
67'
17
Attacker
67'
31
Defender
82'

Pavard likely to be sent back to Inter after poor Marseille performance

Inter are increasingly likely to have Benjamin Pavard returned to them in the summer, as Olympique Marseille do not intend to buy him outright.

The defender was sent out on loan to the French side at a cost of €2.5m, with an option to buy at the end of the campaign for a further €15m.

It had been hoped that Marseille would be willing to activate that purchase option and therefore put some much-needed funds into the Inter coffers.

Inter might get Pavard back from Marseille

MILAN, ITALY - AUGUST 25: Benjamin Pavard of Internazionale controls the ball during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Benjamin Pavard of Internazionale controls the ball during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Pavard has made 26 competitive appearances so far this season for Olympique Marseille, contributing one goal and three assists from defence.

His performance was singled out by the French media following the embarrassing 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, and is therefore increasingly unlikely to remain beyond June 30.

It would also devalue Pavard, whose contract with Inter only runs to June 2028.

The 29-year-old had hoped that this experience in Ligue 1 would give him more regular playing time and a better chance of making the France squad at the 2026 World Cup.

Como: ‘Fabregas is a world class coach, we have unlimited ambition’

Como director Carlalberto Ludi assures Cesc Fabregas ‘was a world class player and is even better as a coach’ working with a club that has ‘unlimited ambition.’

The Coppa Italia quarter-final against Napoli kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

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

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time, to decide who faces Inter in the semi-final.

Como set no limits on Coppa Italia ambition

LECCE, ITALY - DECEMBER 27: Nicolas Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring his team's opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Como 1907 at Stadio Via del Mare on December 27, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
LECCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Nicolas Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Como 1907 at Stadio Via del Mare on December 27, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

“Our idea is to keep growing, week by week, with the work of Cesc and the squad in training,” director Ludi told Sport Mediaset.

“We cannot know where we will end up, but the ambition of this club is unlimited. We want to keep raising the bar every single time.”

It is always a special moment when Fabregas faces off against Antonio Conte, who was his coach when Chelsea won the FA Cup.

They already met earlier this season in a 0-0 draw at the Stadio Maradona in Serie A, where Vanja Milinkovic-Savic parried an Alvaro Morata penalty.

ROME, ITALY - DECEMBER 15: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, applauds the fans at the end of 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)
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 15: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, applauds the fans at the end of 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)

Big clubs are believed to be sniffing around the coach, so are Como worried about someone making Fabregas an offer?

“It has already happened. Cesc was a world class player and he is even better as a coach,” said Ludi.

“We are in a honeymoon period, he is added value for the present and the near future.”

Como are well-rested, because their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Milan was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Tasos Douvikas is only on the bench, so it looks as if Nico Paz could be used as a False 9, or alternatively Jayden Addai.

Manna: ‘Napoli wish we had played with normal number of injuries’

Giovanni Manna insists the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Como is ‘a very important competition,’ but he wishes Napoli had played this season ‘with a normal number of injuries.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

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

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time, to decide who faces Inter in the semi-final.

Como are well-rested, because their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Milan was rescheduled to February 18 due to San Siro being used for the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Napoli reshuffle again in Coppa Italia

TURIN, ITALY - JANUARY 25: Giovane of SSC Napoli runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Khephren Thuram of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Giovane of SSC Napoli runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Khephren Thuram of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“This is part of the sport, it’s not our fault and not theirs either, so we are not seeking any alibis,” Manna told Sport Mediaset.

“It is a very important competition, we want a prestigious semi-final against Inter. We are accustomed now to playing in difficult circumstances, so we’ll give our best.”

Scott McTominay aggravated an inflammation of the tendon in his thigh and is therefore rested, with David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne injured.

It means January signing Giovane gets his first start for Napoli, while Alisson Santos is on the bench. Are they the buys Manna wanted in mid-season?

“It was certainly more complicated than we had hoped, we tried to do some other deals, but the parameters weren’t suitable. So we decided to focus on two young players with margin for significant improvement and in my view can be functional for our style of football both today and in future.

“So we are eager to see them in action, but also in no rush.”

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Antonio Conte, head coach of Napoli, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Antonio Conte, head coach of Napoli, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Others like Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku are only fit for the bench, while Alessandro Buongiorno is left out after his disastrous performance against Genoa.

Goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic returns after several weeks out with a muscular problem, especially as his penalty save allowed Napoli to earn a 0-0 draw here with Como in November.

“I would prefer to have seen how things would’ve gone if we’d had the full squad at our disposal, or at least a normal number of injuries. I’d have loved to be able to see how this team would’ve handled the season in normal circumstances,” noted Manna when asked how the campaign was going.

NAPLES, ITALY - NOVEMBER 01: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of SSC Napoli saves a penalty shot by Alvaro Morata of Como 19 during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of SSC Napoli saves a penalty shot by Alvaro Morata of Como 19 during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“Seeing as that was not possible, we have to look forward. We already won the Supercoppa Italiana, we have the chance to progress in the Coppa Italia, it’s true we went out of the Champions League, but in Serie A we are pretty much where we expected to be.

“What happened is not an alibi. We are fortunate enough to have a great squad, a real coach, and a group with guts. That has allowed us to stay pretty much on track, then we’ll see what happens.”

Khephren Thuram believes father Lilian will favour Juventus against Marcus and Inter

Khephren Thuram reveals what it feels like to face his brother Marcus and why he thinks their father Lilian will be cheering on Juventus against Inter. ‘Our whole family will be in the stands.’

The Derby d’Italia kicks off at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Neutrals will be hoping for a repeat of the extraordinary thriller that saw Juve emerge 4-3 winners in stoppages, with both Thuram brothers on target.

Thuram brothers face off in Derby d’Italia

TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 13: Khephren Thuram of Juventus scores his team's third goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 13: Khephren Thuram of Juventus scores his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“When you grow up with a brother who plays football, it’s natural you would always love to be in the same team,” Khephren told Sky Sport Italia.

“In school, we would always pick each other first to go into our sides. But now we are professionals, we both play for big Italian clubs, and that is good too. I hope to play many games alongside him for France.

“I expect a great game, because these are two big teams, both playing well, and tough on a tactical level. It will be difficult for both sides.”

Will the two brothers speak before the big match this weekend?

“We speak every day, but never about matches. We discuss more important things than football. Our whole family will be in the stands this time, though.”

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 04: The players of FC Internazionale celebrate as Federico Gatti of Juventus scores an own-goal during the Serie A TIM match between FC Internazionale and Juventus - Serie A TIM at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 04, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: The players of FC Internazionale celebrate as Federico Gatti of Juventus scores an own-goal during the Serie A TIM match between FC Internazionale and Juventus – Serie A TIM at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 04, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

It is a situation where their father, former Juventus and Parma defender Lilian, is going to feel a little torn.

However, Khephren has an idea of why the Bianconeri might get the benefit of a smile from their dad.

“He will be neutral, but I am the baby, so perhaps he’ll have a little bit more attention towards me.”

PARIS, FRANCE - MARCH 28:  Lilian Thuram attends the UEFA Woman's Champions League Quarter Final match between Glasgow City and Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes on March 28, 2015 in Paris, France.  (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)
PARIS, FRANCE – MARCH 28: Lilian Thuram attends the UEFA Woman’s Champions League Quarter Final match between Glasgow City and Paris Saint-Germain at Parc des Princes on March 28, 2015 in Paris, France. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)

Juventus have certainly boosted their form since Luciano Spalletti took over from Igor Tudor, so how does the coach differ from his predecessor?

“He asks me to always keep moving, to anticipate the play, but the most important thing is to play with my qualities and know that I am strong,” said Khephren Thuram.

“He is one of the coaches who most in my career has tried to make me understand my own strength. I enjoy working with him, he also gives me tips on where to improve, but I’ll keep those details to myself.

“Spalletti is very demanding with the team, he asks us for many things, and we try to deliver for him.”

Coppa Italia quarter final line-ups: Napoli vs. Como

With Scott McTominay out of action, Napoli rely on Rasmus Hojlund, Giovane and returning Vanja Milinkovic-Savic against Nico Paz’s Como in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

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

The winner will be decided after 90 minutes or go straight to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time.

Whoever goes through can then prepare for the semi-final against Inter.

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Eljif Elmas of Napoli (right) sprays his teammate Scott McTominay's right ankle during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Eljif Elmas of Napoli (right) sprays his teammate Scott McTominay’s right ankle during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Napoli earned a controversial last-gasp 3-2 victory away to Genoa in Serie A at the weekend, but McTominay felt pain from a recurring inflammation after scoring one of the goals.

He is therefore rested, with the usual list of absentees like David Neres, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Billy Gilmour and Kevin De Bruyne.

The good news is that goalkeeper Milinkovic-Savic is available after a couple of weeks out, with Matteo Politano and Romelu Lukaku fit for the bench.

January signing Giovane therefore steps into the trident attack with Hojlund and Antonio Vergara, dropping Eljif Elmas into midfield to replace McTominay.

ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 04: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of SSC Napoli in action during the warm up before the Serie A match between SS Lazio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on January 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of SSC Napoli in action during the warm up before the Serie A match between SS Lazio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on January 04, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Como have been the surprise outfit of this season under coach Cesc Fabregas, and already held Napoli to a 0-0 draw here in Serie A.

Nico Paz is the star man in attack, with impressive Martin Baturina and Jayden Addai, but with Tasos Douvikas and Alvaro Morata on the bench, it’s possible the Argentine will be used as a False 9.

Edoardo Goldaniga and Assane Diao are on the treatment table, but the squad is rested because their Serie A Week 24 fixture with Milan was postponed to February 18 so San Siro could prepare for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Of course, this is a big reunion for Fabregas and Antonio Conte, who worked together to win the FA Cup at Chelsea.

It could also be the first Coppa Italia semi-final for Como in 40 years, since eliminating then reigning Champions of Italy Verona in 1986.

COMO, ITALY - JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Napoli vs. Como official line-ups

Napoli: Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus; Mazzocchi, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Giovane, Vergara; Hojlund

Como: Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Perrone, Sergi Roberto; Addai, Caqueret, Baturina; Nico Paz

10-02-2026 20:00
1/4 Final

Match statistic

48
Possession %
52
8
Total shots
9
3
Shots on target
4
1
Shots off target
2
4
Blocked shots
3
6
Corners
4
1
Offsides
3
13
Fouls
8
Napoli
Como

Starting lineups

32
13
Defender
5
Defender
17
Defender
60'
30
61'
31
Defender
26
Midfielder
74'
20
Midfielder
68
Midfielder
23
Attacker
61'
19
Attacker
74'
1
Goalkeeper
3
Defender
34
Defender
28
Defender
14
Defender
53'
20
Midfielder
6
Midfielder
53'
23
Midfielder
10
Midfielder
82'
8
Midfielder
67'
42
Attacker
67'

Substitutes

1
Goalkeeper
14
Goalkeeper
98
Midfielder
95
Midfielder
37
60'
21
Attacker
61'
27
Attacker
61'
9
Attacker
74'
3
74'
7
Attacker
22
Goalkeeper
77
18
Defender
19
Attacker
21
Goalkeeper
98
Attacker
Midfielder
11
53'
2
53'
33
Attacker
67'
17
Attacker
67'
31
Defender
82'

Italiano: ‘Bologna must battle for every ball’ in Coppa Italia

Vincenzo Italiano outlines where Bologna must be more alert and effective if they are to break the crisis against Lazio in the Coppa Italia quarter-final. ‘We must battle for every ball.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Wednesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

The winners will be decided after 90 minutes or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no provision for extra time.

Whoever emerges will then go on to play Atalanta in a two-legged semi-final.

Italiano dealing with Bologna crisis

BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Vincenzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Vincenzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Although Bologna are the reigning Coppa Italia holders and reached the Supercoppa Italiana Final, losing to Napoli in December, their recent Serie A form has been dismal.

Since the start of December, they scraped just one Serie A victory, three draws and eight defeats, crumbling 1-0 at home to Parma over the weekend.

“We must battle for every ball, knowing that any situation can become favourable, for example in the build-up to the Christian Ordonez goal for Parma,” said Italiano in his press conference.

“This is when we need determination and presence. I ask all the players to read the game, to have a greater sense of danger.

“We also must create more scoring opportunities, that is the key to emerging from this difficult moment. We know the path that we have to take.”

BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 03: Vincenzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Vincenzo Italiano head coach of Bologna FC during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Balancing Serie A, the Coppa Italia, Europa League and Supercoppa Italiana is proving to be quite a strain on Bologna’s resources this season.

“What surprised me the most is how much energy we waste, we are struggling to recover from one match to the next. Our focus has to be on preparation and studying the opponents.”

Lazio have changed quite a bit in the January transfer window, with some players leaving and others like Kenneth Taylor and Petar Ratkov arriving.

“Lazio achieved a great result against an on form Juventus at the weekend, but Maurizio Sarri and I know each other well. We’ve got to put in an impeccable performance if we are to reach the semi-final,” concluded Italiano.

Torbjorn Heggem and Lorenzo De Silvestri are out of action.

Jonathan Rowe, Riccardo Orsolini and Lewis Ferguson celebrate for Bologna against Maccabi Tel-Aviv in the Europa League (@bolognafc1909)
Jonathan Rowe, Riccardo Orsolini and Lewis Ferguson celebrate for Bologna against Maccabi Tel-Aviv in the Europa League (@bolognafc1909)

Bologna squad for Lazio

Pessina, Ravaglia, Skorupski, Casale, Helland, Lucumì, Joao Mario, Miranda, Vitik, Zortea, Ferguson, Freuler, Moro, Pobega, Sohm, Bernardeschi, Cambiaghi, Castro, Dallinga, Dominguez, Odgaard, Orsolini, Rowe

Montella praise for ‘extremely intelligent’ Chivu during Calhanoglu visit

Turkiye coach Vincenzo Montella visited the Inter training ground today to see Hakan Calhanoglu’s recovery, and praised ‘extremely intelligent’ Cristian Chivu.

The Italian tactician is currently back home so that he can meet up with some of the Turkish football talents who are playing in Serie A, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

After seeing Juventus and Cagliari for Kenan Yildiz and Semih Kilicsoy, today Montella was in Milan for the Inter training camp.

Montella on tour of Serie A clubs

Turkey LEIPZIG, GERMANY - JULY 02: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, celebrates after the team's victory in the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Austria and Turkiye at Football Stadium Leipzig on July 02, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
LEIPZIG, GERMANY – JULY 02: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, celebrates after the team’s victory in the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between Austria and Turkiye at Football Stadium Leipzig on July 02, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

“I am having a series of meetings, because we are getting close to the call-ups for the play-offs,” Montella told Sky Sport Italia.

“I received a warm welcome, and it was lovely to see Cristian again after so many years. Plus obviously Hakan too. So much depends on having players in good shape at the right time for international duty, so we’ve got our fingers crossed.”

🤝🖤💙 pic.twitter.com/o9sGHBQmf9

— Inter (@Inter) February 10, 2026

Calhanoglu had been out of action since suffering a left soleus strain on January 11, during the Scudetto showdown with Napoli, but today was his return to training with his teammates.

Nicolò Barella also resumed work with the squad, so both are available for Saturday’s clash against Juventus.

MILAN, ITALY - OCTOBER 29: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team's third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“It is always a classic, the Derby d’Italia generally is an exciting fixture. I expect a real spectacle, regardless of the result.”

Montella was teammates with Chivu when both were in the Roma squad, so they had a warm embrace as they were reunited.

“We were teammates, there is a great rapport, he’s a really good guy and I wish him all the best. He is proving himself to be a great coach who is extremely intelligent, so he’ll do well.”

🔗🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/NbycpRHnsT

— Inter ⭐ (@Inter) February 10, 2026

Mateta mystery deepens, Crystal Palace insist failed Milan transfer ‘does not need surgery’

Jean-Philippe Mateta failed a medical test with Milan to scupper his €30m transfer from Crystal Palace, but today Oliver Glasner insisted the striker ‘does not need surgery.’

The deal was all done between the clubs, and he had accepted the personal terms on offer for the move to San Siro, in a package worth in excess of €30m.

Mateta rejected by Milan after failed medical

BECKENHAM, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

However, it all fell apart at the final hurdle when Milan requested extra medical tests in London, their staff deciding that Mateta would not be fit for a while due to a knee injury.

It was even suggested that the centre-forward could need surgery, which would rule him out for several months.

The mystery continues, as today Crystal Palace coach Glasner tried to provide a little more clarity.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JANUARY 04: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace at St James' Park on January 04, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace at St James’ Park on January 04, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

“I can’t say two weeks, three weeks, four weeks, but he doesn’t need surgery,” said Glasner.

“That’s very positive and hopefully he’s back soon.”

Instead, Crystal Palace medical staff are confident that the striker only needs two weeks of individual training to strengthen the muscles around his knee.

Juventus had also been heavily linked with Mateta during the January transfer window.

Serie A disciplinary verdict: 2-match ban for Matic after insults

Sassuolo midfielder Nemanja Matic has received a two-match Serie A ban for insulting the referee, while others suspended include Napoli defender Juan Jesus.

The Disciplinary Commission gave its verdicts following the Week 24 fixtures, although one is still to be played.

That is because Milan vs. Como was rescheduled for February 18, as San Siro was being used for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

Serie A bans after Week 24 games

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (left), greets Juan Jesus of Napoli prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (left), greets Juan Jesus of Napoli prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

Matic saw red for insulting the referee during Sassuolo’s 5-0 defeat to Inter, and he has been punished with a two-match ban, plus €10,000 fine.

Parma player Mariano Troilo was also fined €2,000 and given a one-match ban, as he initially refused to leave when sent off.

BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Thijs Dallinga of Bologna FC competes for the ball with Mariano Troilo of Parma Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Thijs Dallinga of Bologna FC competes for the ball with Mariano Troilo of Parma Calcio during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Parma Calcio 1913 at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 08, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Napoli defender Juan Jesus is suspended for his team’s big match against Roma, having received two yellow cards in the 3-2 win over Genoa.

Also given one-match Serie A bans are Tommaso Pobega (Bologna), Alessio Romagnoli (Lazio), Lameck Banda (Lecce) and Marius Marin (Pisa).

Referees confess huge mistake in Genoa 2-3 Napoli: ‘Absolutely not a foul’

Napoli’s controversial winning penalty against Genoa was ‘absolutely in no way a foul,’ confessed Dino Tommasi, representing the Italian Referees’ Association (AIA).

The incident caused a huge amount of controversy, especially as it was so decisive, happening deep into stoppages in what turned out to be a 3-2 victory for the Partenopei.

VAR spotted Maxwel Cornet’s foot on that of Antonio Vergara, which was considered the classic ‘step on foot’ that referees automatically give a penalty for, even when contact itself is fairly minimal.

The footage was analysed on the DAZN Italia show Open VAR with representative of the AIA, former referee Tommasi, who confessed it was a catalogue of errors.

Genoa denied a point by controversial Napoli penalty

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa, reacts during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“VAR Di Bello and AVAR Fabbri are drawn to the contact between Cornet and Vergara,” explained Tommasi.

“In truth, he is simply taking up a position, the movement from Cornet is entirely accidental and in absolutely no way is it a foul.

“The issue of ‘step on foot’ was created to punish recklessness, but here it is not that. He touches the top of the foot, but the dynamics of the movement are normal within football.

“There is no recklessness, and no need to punish it. The first camera angle might make it seem like a foul, but there’s very little in real football terms.

“It is an accidental ‘graze’ and fouls need to be clear, not like this.”

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Rasmus Hojlund of Napoli (2nd from right) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring his second goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Rasmus Hojlund of Napoli (2nd from right) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring his second goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

So was it the correct decision to get the referee to review it himself with the On-Field Review?

“With hindsight, it was not the right choice to call him. The On-Field Review is for a clear and obvious error, whereas this was a normal movement in the dynamics of the game, so the call was incorrect.”

Even when the referee had been called to evaluate it, he still could’ve stuck with his original decision not to award a penalty to Napoli.

“There are situations where the referee has correctly rejected the indications of the VAR. The referee must analyse what he sees, he is the ultimate decision-maker,” confirmed Tommasi.

VAR had already intervened in the opening minute when the referee did not spot a clear Alex Meret foul on Vitinha for a Genoa penalty.

“In this situation there are no doubts, the Meret foul on Vitinha is clear.”

Cornet colpisce il piede di Vergara 🕵️‍♂️ Rigore per il Napoli! ⚠
L'episodio di #GenoaNapoli visto al microscopio 🔬

L'audio del VAR e la spiegazione dell'episodio ad #OpenVAR, ora su #DAZN 📲 pic.twitter.com/qWy1rnPpI6

— DAZN Italia (@DAZN_IT) February 10, 2026

Inter boost with return of Barella and Calhanoglu for big Juventus match

There is good news for Inter ahead of Saturday’s Derby d’Italia with Juventus, as Nicolò Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu are back in training.

It kicks off at San Siro on Saturday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET) and reignites the bitter rivalry as well as precious points in the top four.

Inter welcome back star midfielders

MILAN, ITALY - DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Nerazzurri are on a roll at the moment and flying away at the top of the table, despite missing half their first choice midfield.

Denzel Dumfries is still out of action following ankle surgery, but there was a significant development today, because Barella and Calhanoglu returned to training.

The Turkish veteran had been missing since limping off during the game with Napoli, suffering from a left soleus strain on January 11.

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)
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)

As for Barella, he suffered a right thigh problem in training ahead of the Champions League trip to Borussia Dortmund on January 28.

It is more likely that the Italian will be straight back into the starting XI, whereas Piotr Zielinski is expected to keep hold of the midfield reins to start this weekend’s big match.

Inter have one last obstacle to overcome to win Serie A title

Inter have been far the most consistent team in Serie A this season, but they have yet to beat any direct rival, which feels like the final step missing to claim the Scudetto.

Inter have an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan after Serie A Round 24, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand to be played against Como at San Siro on February 18.

Cristian Chivu’s side have been the more consistent team this season as they hardly dropped points against teams in the bottom half of the table, a reliability that bettors following the trend with a fanduel promo code have been quick to take advantage of.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Inter, however, have yet to win a game against either Juventus, Milan or Napoli and that is an issue that has been ongoing for some time as the Nerazzurri faced the same problematic under Chivu’s predecessor Simone Inzaghi.

Inter have not won any of their last 14 Serie A meetings against Milan, Juve or Napoli and they’ll be hoping to reverse this trend in the second part of the campaign.

Inter have the best attack in the league with 57 goals scored in 24 matches. The Nerazzurri just beat Sassuolo 5-0 away with a dominant performance at the Mapei Stadium.

“This team seems more mature now, of how to accept and adapt in certain moments of the game,” Chivu said at full-time.

“We’ve understood the moment that we’re in, we suffered from their intensity and once they got hold of the ball, they went straight at the game. We struck at the right time with that corner, then our solidity became an important factor for how we went about the game.

“We can’t forget where we’ve come from. We can’t be afraid of anything, but we have to be aware that we can still improve. There’s no such thing as perfection.

“It isn’t easy because there’s still a long way to go in the league and these are important phases of the season. We’re halfway through the marathon, we have to keep our maturity and be competitive.”

Inter are still running for three titles this season, having qualified for the Coppa Italia semifinals and the Champions League play-off, where they’ll meet Bodo/Glimt.

MADRID, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 26: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale reacts after his side conceded a goal, scored by Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Alessandro Bastoni of Internazionale reacts after his side conceded a goal, scored by Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite their impressive results in recent weeks, Chivu remained cautious when asked about the Nerazzurri’s chances to win the Scudetto in 2025-26.

“Zero for me. There are fourteen games left to play. Theory’s still work to be done,” he replied.

Inter last won the domestic title in 2023-24, collecting 94 points under Inzaghi and lifting the 20th Scudetto in the club’s history.

During Inzaghi’s tenure, Inter also reached two Champions League Finals but lost to Manchester City and PSG, in 2023 and 2025, respectively.

Ten Hag leaves Twente door open for Schuurs after Torino exit

Twente’s technical director Erik ten Hag says the ‘door is open’ for ex-Torino defender Perr Schuurs: ‘I only hope he can recover in the best way for himself and his family.’

Dutch defender Schuurs recently terminated his contract with Torino, having made no appearances for the Granata in over two years.

Schuurs’ unfortunate Torino spell

epa10162584 Torino?s Nikola Vlasic (R) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match Torino FC vs US Lecce at the Olimpico Grande Torino Stadium in Turin, Italy, 05 September 2022. EPA-EFE/Alessandro Di Marco
Nikola Vlasic (R) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match Torino FC vs US Lecce at the Olimpico Grande Torino Stadium in Turin, Italy, 05 September 2022. EPA-EFE/Alessandro Di Marco

The 26-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture on October 21, 2023 and underwent surgery twice since.

Schuurs had joined Torino from Ajax in 2022 and made 43 appearances with the Granata before his serious injury.

Before joining Roma, Schuurs had made 92 appearances under Ten Hag at Ajax and the former Manchester United coach, now the technical director for Dutch side Twente, would love to reunite with his ex-defender.

Ten Hag eager to ‘help’ Schuurs

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United, looks on as players of Manchester United warm up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Manchester United FC at London Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Erik ten Hag, Manager of Manchester United, looks on as players of Manchester United warm up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Manchester United FC at London Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

“If I have a chance to help him, I’ll surely do it. The door at Twente is always open for him, but we must first consider his shape when he returns,” Ten Hag told De Telegraaf.

“He might be a very important resource in a club like ours, but currently, I only hope he can recover in the best way for himself and his family. He deserves it. The rest will come afterwards.”

Schuurs was called up for the Netherlands’ Nations League games against Poland and Italy in September 2020 but spent both matches on the bench, failing to make his debut with his national team.

The Dutchman played 39 Serie A games with Torino, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Slot points to Chiesa as example of Liverpool’s Champions League impact

Arne Slot is ‘aware’ that the lack of Champions League football in 2026-27 will limit Liverpool’s spending next summer: ‘When I arrived after a Europa League season, we could only sign Federico Chiesa.’

Liverpool sit 6th in the Premier League table, five points below a Champions League spot. Missing out on qualification for Europe’s elite competition would naturally impact their spending next summer.

Slot: Liverpool ‘could only sign Chiesa’ after Europa League campaign

Federico Chiesa of Liverpool is seen during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between PSV Eindhoven and Liverpool FC at PSV Stadion on January 29, 2025 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
Federico Chiesa of Liverpool is seen during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between PSV Eindhoven and Liverpool FC at PSV Stadion on January 29, 2025 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

“When I arrived here, we could only sign Federico Chiesa and that was after a Europa League season,” Slot said at a press conference on Tuesday.

“So, that does have an enormous impact on the way this club is run, that is clear. So, we are completely aware and I am completely aware of that.

“If we don’t have Champions League football it has definitely not been an acceptable season.”

Chiesa joined Liverpool from Juventus on the 2024 summer transfer window deadline day.

He has been struggling with playing time under Slot, especially in his first season at Anfield, when he collected just three goals and two assists in 15 appearances across all competitions.

Will Chiesa play for Italy again?

Chiesa and Donnarumma playing for Italy
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 17: Gianluigi Donnarumma and Federico Chiesa of Italy celebrate the win at the end of the UEFA EURO 2024 European qualifier match between Italy and North Macedonia at Stadio Olimpico on November 17, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

There have been slight improvements in 2025-26 as Chiesa has scored three times and assisted just as many times in 25 games for Liverpool.

Chiesa has not been part of the Italy national team since the 2024 Euros.

However, Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso has been eager to bring Chiesa back to the team for some time and recently met him for dinner in London, along with other Italy players.

Conceiçao: I want to stay at Juventus ‘for a long time’, but lack of goals frustrating

Juventus winger Francisco Conceiçao is confident that it’s ‘just a matter of time’ before he starts scoring consistently and hopes to stay at the Allianz Stadium ‘for a long time.’

Juventus star Conceiçao released an interview with Sportmediaset ahead of some tricky fixtures for the Bianconeri who will meet Inter in the next Serie A match on Saturday and then Galatasaray in the Champions League knock-out play-off.

“We must do our job. We want to win and prove we are a great team,” Conceiçao said.

“We know Inter are in a very good moment, winning every game comfortably, but we have the quality to do well and win, and we’ll go there to do just that.

“We know the Champions League is the best competition in the world. It will be a very tough game, against a strong team with strong players, but the least we can do is to win and join the top clubs.”

Juventus have recently been eliminated from the Coppa Italia by Atalanta and were held to a 2-2 home draw by Lazio in Serie A, wasting many chances in both games.

Juventus ‘a bit nervous’ for lack of goals

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)
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)

“Many times, creating chances is the most difficult thing, but I’ve lacked the goals that could have helped the team, which is the most important thing,” Conceiçao noted.

“I think it’s just a matter of time if I continue like this.

“We want to win every game; it’s what we want to do. We must continue to win in Serie A to remain up there. I want to help the team as much as possible, with more goals and assists to reach our objectives,” the Portuguese winger continued.

“If we score first, the team feels more confident, but we are lacking it now, so we feel a bit nervous as we want to score to win. I think we create many chances, which is the hard part, but we must improve, score goals and improve.”

Conceiçao has only scored one goal and provided one assist in 18 appearances under Luciano Spalletti, who was appointed as the new Juventus coach at the end of October.

The Bianconeri have climbed the table and are currently in the top four, but Conceiçao sees ample room for improvement.

“I like the way we play and the way we want to win,” he said.

Conceiçao opens up about Juventus future

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus is challenged by Honest Ahanor of Atalanta during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus is challenged by Honest Ahanor of Atalanta during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“The results speak for themselves; we’ve won more games, and we must continue to improve. We all know we have the potential to do much more, including myself.”

Conceiçao is in his second season at Juventus and hopes to remain in Turin long-term.

“Yes, obviously, for a long time, I want to win titles and do great things personally,” he concluded.

 

Jimenez feared limited Milan playing time, Nico Paz ‘ready’ for Real Madrid return

Alex Jimenez feared he’d get limited playing time at Milan, so he joined Bournemouth last summer and feels Como star Nico Paz is ‘ready’ to return to Real Madrid.

Spanish full-back Jimenez has recently completed a permanent move to Bournemouth, just six months after joining the Premier League side on loan from Milan.

The 20-year-old has scored one goal and provided one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions this season and is happy with his life on and off the pitch in England.

“Life is much calmer than in Milan or Madrid, and I think that’s helping me stay even more focused on football,” he told Mundo Deportivo.

“My family is living with me, and I have a very peaceful daily life.

“In Italy, [football] it’s a bit slower because football there is much more tactical than in the Premier League. Here it’s much more physical, back and forth, and you have to be very well prepared physically. Given my characteristics, I feel more comfortable, and the Premier League suits me better.”

Jimenez went on to explain why he decided to leave Milan last summer, after making 34 appearances with the Rossoneri.

Jimenez on why he left Milan for Bournemouth

Alex Jimenez of AC Milan in action during the Trofeo Berlusconi match between AC Milan and AC Monza on August 13, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Alex Jimenez of AC Milan in action during the Trofeo Berlusconi match between AC Milan and AC Monza on August 13, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“I think at Milan I wasn’t going to get the minutes I wanted this season, and this opportunity came up,” he said.

“I saw it as a chance, and I think I’m making the most of it.

“I really valued that the coach was Spanish [Andoni Iraola], considering he could help me integrate into the team,” Jimenez continued.

“In the end, changing language and country makes a difference. Also, I’ve always liked watching Premier League matches, and it seemed like a fun team based on what I saw last season.”

During his time at Milan, however, Jimenez had the chance to play alongside one of his role models, Theo Hernandez.

“I’ve always had Dani Carvajal as a reference because I spent many years at Madrid,” said the 20-year-old.

“Also, Alexander-Arnold, Davies and Theo Hernandez, whom I was lucky enough to play alongside at Milan.”

Nico Paz ‘ready’ for Real Madrid return

COMO, ITALY - JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Lastly, Jimenez argued that Como star Nico Paz has done enough in Serie A this season to justify a return to Real Madrid next summer.

The Merengues have an option to re-sign the Argentine in 2026 and 2027.

“Yes, he’s ready. He already did very well last season, and in the current campaign, he’s made a further step forward,” Jimenez said.

“I’ve always liked him, and I’d be very happy if he eventually returns to Real Madrid.”

Juventus wait for 32m boost as Nico Gonzalez closer to permanent Atletico move

Only nine more La Liga appearances separate Juventus loanee Nico Gonzalez from a permanent move to Atletico Madrid.

Argentina international Nico Gonzalez is edging closer to joining Atletico Madrid on a permanent deal.

When will Nico Gonzalez join Atletico Madrid permanently?

Official: Nico Gonzalez joins Atletico Madrid on loan with an option to buy from Juventus.
Official: Nico Gonzalez joins Atletico Madrid on loan with an option to buy from Juventus.

The 27-year-old moved to the Wanda Metropolitano last summer on a €1m loan deal with an option to buy for 32m.

As reported by Calciomercato.com, Atletico’s option to buy becomes mandatory if Nico makes at least 60% appearances in La Liga, for 45 minutes each.

Nico has already played at least 45 minutes in 12 La Liga matches, so he has nine more to complete before joining the Colchoneros permanently.

Juventus’ changes in attack

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JUNE 26: Manuel Akanji #25 of Manchester City is challenged by Nico Gonzalez #11 of Juventus FC during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Juventus FC and Manchester City FC at Camping World Stadium on June 26, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – JUNE 26: Manuel Akanji #25 of Manchester City is challenged by Nico Gonzalez #11 of Juventus FC during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Juventus FC and Manchester City FC at Camping World Stadium on June 26, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Overall, Nico Gonzalez has scored one goal in 25 appearances with Atletico Madrid this season.

Nico Gonzalez only spent one season at Juventus, scoring five goals and providing four assists in 40 appearances during the 2024-25 campaign.

MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY - MARCH 21: Nicolás González of Juventus and Argentina reacts after being sent off during the South of American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Uruguay and Argentina at Centenario Stadium on March 21, 2025 in Montevideo, Uruguay. (Photo by Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)
MONTEVIDEO, URUGUAY – MARCH 21: Nicolás González of Argentina reacts after being sent off during the South of American FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Uruguay and Argentina at Centenario Stadium on March 21, 2025 in Montevideo, Uruguay. (Photo by Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)

Juventus signed Edon Zhegrova and Lois Openda as attacking reinforcements on deadline day last summer and welcomed Jeremie Boga from OGC Nice in the January transfer window.

Referee chiefs back decision to deny Juventus penalty vs. Lazio

Referee chiefs reportedly agreed that the decision to deny a penalty kick to Juventus in their latest Serie A match against Lazio was correct.

La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Calciomercato.com) reports that AIA chiefs considered Marco Guida’s decision not to award a penalty to Juventus against Lazio on Sunday to be correct.

Juventus rightly denied a penalty vs. Lazio, according to referee chiefs

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Kalulu of Juventis celebrates a second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Kalulu of Juventis celebrates a second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

The Biancocelesti defender Mario Gila appeared to foul Juventus’ Juan Cabal with a sliding tackle inside the box.

Guida did not give a penalty, and he was not urged to the pitchside monitor to spot any potential error.

According to referee chiefs, the decisions were correct given the Lazio defender’s “intention to withdraw.”

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Juventus Head coach Luciano Spalletti and SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus Head coach Luciano Spalletti and SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti complained about the decision at full-time, arguing that his side had been denied a clear penalty.

Spalletti’s remarks were shared by DAZN pundit Luca Marelli, who claimed Lazio should have been punished due to Gila’s negligence in his tackle.

Juventus sit fourth in the Serie A table, level on 46 points with 5th-placed Roma.

Ex-Serie A defender names top two Italy centre-backs, snubs Bastoni

Former Torino defender Giacomo Ferri feels that Alessandro Buongiorno and Giorgio Scalvini are the best Italian centre-backs: ‘Alessandro Bastoni has other qualities.’

Former Torino star Ferri defended Napoli centre-back Buongiorno after the Italy international made clear errors in an eventual 3-2 win over Genoa on Saturday.

‘Buongiorno and Scalvini the best centre-backs in Italy’

Alessandro Buongiorno plays for Italy in Moldova during the 2026 World Cup qualifier (@azzurri)
Alessandro Buongiorno plays for Italy in Moldova during the 2026 World Cup qualifier (@azzurri)

“I think there are many reasons why he’ll bounce back,” Ferri told Radio TuttoNapoli via Calciomercato.com.

“He’s young, he still has room for improvement and has a coach who, for me, is able to make everyone improve. Buongiorno has indeed made errors in recent times, but I think physical issues played a part in this. He hasn’t been 100% fit.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 23: Giorgio Scalvini of Italy arrives before Italy training session at NY Red Bulls TG on March 23, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 23: Giorgio Scalvini of Italy arrives before Italy training session at NY Red Bulls TG on March 23, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

“For me, Scalvini and Buongiorno are the best Italian centre-backs right now,” Ferri continued.

“They might be struggling at times, but they have room for improvement and coaches who can make them develop.”

Ferri even prefers Buongiorno over Inter’s Bastoni.

BERGAMO, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's fifth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s fifth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

“As a pure centre-back, Buongiorno is superior,” he claimed.

“Bastoni has other qualities, especially when he attacks. He’s perfect as a left defender in a three-man defence. I’m not saying he’s a bad defender, quite the opposite, but as a pure centre-back, Buongiorno is superior.”

 

Juventus still have Vlahovic hope, but Serbia fitness coach drops Barcelona hint

Juventus director Marco Ottolini reveals the Bianconeri still hope to extend Dusan Vlahovic’s contract, but the Serbia national team fitness coach predicts the striker will join Barcelona.

Juventus striker Vlahovic has less than six months left in his contract at the Allianz Stadium.

Talks between the two parties have been stalling for several months, given that Vlahovic is reportedly unwilling to cut his €12m salary.

Juventus set to continue Vlahovic contract talks

TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 16: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Vlahovic has been unavailable since December and is expected to return to action next month.

Despite his injury and uncertain future at Juventus, Vlahovic still seems quite involved in the team, as his celebration of Pierre Kalulu’s late equaliser against Lazio suggested.

“It’s something we have considered too,” Juventus sporting director Marco Ottolini told Sky Sport Italia.

“Vlahovic will be available again in a few weeks, and we’ll surely talk to him. Negotiations will continue, so it’s not a completely closed matter.”

BELGRADE, SERBIA - OCTOBER 11: Dusan Vlahovic of Serbia and Juventus reacts after a missed chance during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Serbia and Albania at Gradski stadion Dubocica on October 11, 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)
BELGRADE, SERBIA – OCTOBER 11: Dusan Vlahovic of Serbia reacts after a missed chance during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Serbia and Albania at Gradski stadion Dubocica on October 11, 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

Vlahovic, however, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Milan, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

Dusan Ilic, the fitness coach of the Serbian national predicted that the Juventus forward will move to Spain in the summer.

“For me, he’ll go to Barcelona,” Ilic told Tuttosport.

“Before joining Juventus, he had held talks with Atletico Madrid, but then picked the Bianconeri. It was impossible to refuse that offer.”

TURIN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 16: Manuel Locatelli and Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus celebrates after Lloyd Kelly (not pictured) scores his team's fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: Manuel Locatelli and Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus celebrates after Lloyd Kelly (not pictured) scores his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Vlahovic underwent surgery in December due to a high-grade adductor injury.

“The injury hit a very specific part that takes longer to heal,” continued Ilic.

“Naturally, the recovery is longer, but given the doctors and the specialists he has at his disposal, I can say we’ll see him return soon.”

Report Pulisic waits for Milan contract offer as Liverpool and Arsenal loom

Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly interested in Milan star Christian Pulisic, who hasn’t yet received an offer to extend his contract at San Siro.

Premier League giants Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in Pulisic, according to TMW.

Milan prepare contract extension offer for Pulisic

MILAN, ITALY - DECEMBER 28: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Hellas Verona FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Pulisic’s contract with the Rossoneri expires in June 2027, even if the agreement includes an option to extend for a further campaign.

According to the report, Pulisic thought he’d receive an offer in the past months, but the club have never made a formal proposal.

The Rossoneri, however, are reportedly determined to send their offer shortly as they are willing to continue with the USMNT international for the coming years.

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA - DECEMBER 18: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan battles for possession with Stanislav Lobotka of SSC Napoli during the Supercoppa Italiana Semi-Final match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at King Saud University Stadium on December 18, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 18: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan battles for possession with Stanislav Lobotka of SSC Napoli during the Supercoppa Italiana Semi-Final match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at King Saud University Stadium on December 18, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Milan have recently confirmed Mike Maignan’s contract extension, but negotiations with the Frenchman had a higher priority as the goalkeeper only had six months left in his previous deal.

MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 02: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates victory with teammates Fikayo Tomori and Strahinja Pavlovic after the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates victory with teammates Fikayo Tomori and Strahinja Pavlovic after the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Pulisic began the season in excellent form, but recent physical setbacks have slowed his momentum. The American has yet to score in 2026 and was forced to miss the latest Serie A match against Bologna because of bursitis.

The 27-year-old has scored ten goals and provided two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions.

Conte and Fabregas: from Chelsea glory to Coppa Italia showdown

Antonio Conte’s Napoli and Cesc Fabregas’ Como will be looking to earn a place in the Coppa Italia semifinals tonight, reuniting for the fourth time on the sidelines after winning titles with Chelsea.

Napoli and Como meet at the Stadio Maradona tonight in a Coppa Italia quarter-final showdown.

Napoli have already been eliminated from the Champions League, so they only have Serie A and Coppa Italia left to play for, even if they sit third in the league standings, and the gap from leaders Inter is now nine points.

NAPLES, ITALY - JANUARY 31: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach 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 – JANUARY 31: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach 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)

Como, on the other hand, sit 6th in Serie A, just five points below a ChampionsLeague spot, with a game in hand.

Fabregas’ side, in fact, didn’t play this past weekend as their away game against Milan at San Siro was postponed due to the stadium being occupied by the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

Como’s last competitive match was on February 1, while Napoli beat Genoa 3-2 on Saturday, but saw their midfielder, Scott McTominay, suffer a minor injury. The Scotland international is part of a big group of Napoli players unavailable for tonight’s Coppa Italia fixture.

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (L) greets player Cesc Fabregas (R) at the end of the English Premier League soccer match Chelsea vs Swansea at Stamford Bridge, London, Britain, 25 February 2017. EPA/WILL OLIVER EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte (L) greets player Cesc Fabregas (R) at the end of the English Premier League soccer match Chelsea vs Swansea at Stamford Bridge, London, Britain, 25 February 2017. EPA/WILL OLIVER 

The winner will go on to face Inter in the semifinals.

Fabregas and Conte already met three times as coaches. Conte won the first match in October 2024, but the Spaniard is unbeaten in the last two, having grabbed a home 2-1 win in February 2025 and an away 0-0 draw at the Maradona this past November.

Fabregas played under Conte at Chelsea, scoring ten goals and providing 22 assists in 86 appearances between 2016 and 2018.

During their time at Stamford Bridge, Conte and Fabregas won a Premier League title (2016-17) and an FA Cup (2017-18).

Ex-Aston Villa striker Malen ‘explosive like dynamite’ at Roma, Italian media say

Doneyll Malen earned praise from Italian media after scoring a brace in Roma’s 2-0 win over Cagliari: ‘explosive like dynamite,’ wrote Corriere dello Sport.

Malen has had a tremendous impact at Roma, scoring three goals in his opening four Serie A appearances. His last two, scored in a home game against Cagliari on Monday, allowed the Giallorossi to catch Juventus in the top four.

🇳🇱 🎩 🪄#ASRoma #RomaCagliari pic.twitter.com/YO1sM5L900

— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) February 10, 2026

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini was clearly delighted with the Dutchman’s performance, and the coach’s words of praise were echoed by Italian newspapers.

Malen resulted as the obvious Man of the Match in all Italian sports papers.

He was rated 8/10 by Corriere dello Sport and Gazzetta.

Italian media react to Malen’s brace in Roma 2-0 Cagliari

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma scores the team's second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma scores the team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“Explosive like dynamite, delicate as a caress,” wrote Corriere dello Sport.

“The first goal, beautiful, was a tribute to his qualities as a mobile centre-forward. The second, just as valuable, showed a boundless hunger. Side note: when he accelerated and hit top gear, he became uncatachable.”

Gazzetta added: “Worthy of a manual of attacking football for how he made his runs, called for the pass and finished. Extraordinary. The first goal was a gem, on the second, he was flawless.”

Malen joined Roma from Aston Villa on an initial loan deal with an option to buy in the January transfer window.

Roma’s option to buy for €25m becomes mandatory if they qualify for the Champions League or the Conference League this season.

Celik ➡ Malen 🟰 💥#ASRoma #RomaCagliari pic.twitter.com/0Gdfw9Qsvp

— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) February 10, 2026

Gattuso meets Italy players across the globe ahead of World Cup play-off

Denied a training retreat this month, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso has taken his World Cup preparations on the road, visiting players in Saudi Arabia, London and Milan ahead of March’s play-off.

Italy coach Gattuso has been visiting the players he is considering calling up for March’s World Cup play-offs.

Italy’s World Cup play-off opponent

BERGAMO, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Players of Italy during the National Anthem during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Players of Italy during the National Anthem during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the semis on March 26, and if they progress, they’ll visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Final.

The congested fixture list has made it impossible for the FIGC and Lega Serie A to find a two-day window for the Azzurri to train at Coverciano this month. This means Gattuso will reunite with his players four months after their last competitive match, lost 4-1 at home against Norway in November.

Therefore, Gattuso has opted to meet his players face to face, travelling around the world and catching up with them over dinner.

According to Gazzetta, Gattuso has already met with Mateo Retegui in Saudi Arabia, Marco Verratti in Qatar and many Italian players in the Premier League: Riccardo Calafiori, Federico Chiesa, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Michael Kayode, Nicolò Savona, Sandro Tonali, Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario.

BERGAMO, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Coach Gennaro Gattuso of Italy looks on prior to the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Coach Gennaro Gattuso of Italy looks on prior to the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Gazzetta highlights that Gattuso has meticulously planned for these meetings, ensuring they would not disrupt the clubs’ weekly work or compromise the players’ rest.

Last night, he had dinner in Milan with Juventus, Inter, Milan, Bologna and Fiorentina players who could be part of the Azzurri team next month.

Within Friday, depending on the commitments of each team, he’ll go to Bergamo, Rome and Naples to meet the others.

BERGAMO, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy during the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Gennaro Gattuso, Head Coach of Italy during the National anthems prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Next Monday, he’ll sit down with Cagliari’s Elia Caprile and Marco Palestra after attending the match between the Rossoblu and Lecce.

 

Nkunku: France have three teams to win World Cup, Rabiot ‘a beast’

During his interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan striker Christopher Nkunku praised many of his Rossoneri teammates and said France could compete to win the World Cup with three different teams.

Milan striker Nkunku has been in excellent form in recent weeks, scoring one Serie A goal every 63 minutes since the end of December.

Despite being linked with leaving the Rossoneri in the January window, Nkunku insisted that he never considered leaving the club last month.

MILAN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 14: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan hugs teammate Christopher Nkunku during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Adrien Rabiot of AC Milan hugs teammate Christopher Nkunku during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

During his interview with Gazzetta, Nkunku spoke highly of many of his Milan teammates, including his compatriots Adrien Rabiot and Mike Maignan.

Nkunku and Rabiot are Milan’s best scorers in 2026.

Nkunku: Rabiot ‘could play 90 minutes every day’

“Adrien always been like this; maybe he’s just more decisive now,” Nkunku said.

“Allegri wants him to play more in attack, while before he used to be more defensive. Adrien has a phenomenal shot, and he runs so much. I think he could play 90 minutes every day because he’s never tired. He’s at the peak of his career, between 29 and 31 years old. He has no limits; he always pushes on and off the pitch. He’s a beast.”

MILAN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 23: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan inflates a balloon as he celebrates with teammates after scoring to give the side a 2-0 lead during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan inflates a balloon as he celebrates with teammates after scoring to give the side a 2-0 lead during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

Maignan has recently extended his Milan contract and has been a crucial player for the Serie A giants this term. The French keeper saved penalty kicks against Inter and Roma, so Nkunku was asked whether he can score consistently from the spot in training, against his compatriot.

“I would say it’s 50-50, Mike has helped us earn points,” the striker replied.

“He has great leadership inside the dressing room. Everyone listens to him when he says something. He always speaks for the team’s good, as a true captain. We couldn’t tell him to stay, but now that he has extended his contract, we are calmer. It’s good for the club that he stays.”

Do the French players in the Milan team talk much about the upcoming World Cup?

“Not much, because now we are all focused on winning at Milan,” Nkunku said.

“The World Cup will be in three or four months, and if we give our best for the club, we’ll have more chances to be called up.”

The French forward sustained an injury just a few days before the start of the 2022 World Cup.

“It was sad; every footballer dreams of playing at the World Cup. Now I must work to make it happen,” Nkunku said.

COMO, ITALY - JANUARY 15: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates with his team-mates after scoring their team's first goal1 from the penalty spot 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)
COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates with his team-mates after scoring their team’s first goal1 from the penalty spot 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)

“France are really strong. We could have three teams, and each would be competitive to win, because we have youth sectors that work well.”

Nkunku faced two final questions about other Milan stars, Rafael Leao and Luka Modric. Who is faster? Nkunku or Leao?

“Long distances, probably Rafa, but shorter distances, maybe myself,” Nkunku replied.

“Luka [Modric] is super, he has a unique quality and makes some fantastic long passes with the outside of his foot. If I even try, my hip goes out. It’s unbelievable that he’s 40. He could still play until 45 or 46.”

 

Nkunku: ‘Never’ wanted to leave Milan, Ibrahimovic hasn’t changed

Milan striker Christopher Nkunku insists he didn’t consider leaving the Rossoneri in the January transfer window and feels his former PSG teammate, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, has not changed in his new advisor role.

Nkuku completed a permanent move to Milan from Chelsea last summer, but initially struggled to settle in at San Siro.

At the end of December, he scored a brace against Verona, and he’s gone on to score one goal every 63 minutes played in Serie A since.

“Honestly, it made me very happy, but my objective now is to be in good shape,” Nkunku told Gazzetta.

When Nkunku arrived in Milan last summer, he had taken part in Chelsea’s pre-season training, which affected him in the first part of the campaign.

“A lot, it’s like a journalist conducting an interview without preparing the questions. It was hard because I had never skipped a pre-season, and next summer I’ll do anything to not make it happen again,” he said.

“If you don’t have a pre-season, you don’t have those four or five friendlies to get in shape.”

Despite some difficult months at the start of the season, Nkunku never considered leaving the club.

Nkunku ‘never thought about leaving’ Milan

BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 03: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall'Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“I tried to remain calm because I knew my qualities and I knew I’d score. It was just a matter of time and shape,” he claimed.

“If you play in attack, you must score because it’s your job. I hope I still helped the team differently, but if you score or assist, it’s more evident. The most important thing is to win and do what Allegri says.

“I’ve never thought about leaving, that’s the point,” Nkunku continued.

“My agent never mentioned any offer, so those were just rumours to me. He knows me well; I’ve never asked him to look for something different or talk to other clubs, because I wanted to be ready for Milan.

“I think Milan are the biggest club in Italy and I’ve understood that the club wants to win titles, which is also my objective. I’ve had a chance to lift trophies everywhere, and I want to do the same here, at a club that was born to win.”

In mid-December, Max Allegri said Nkunku had to ‘smile more’, and the French striker tried to follow his coach’s advice.

epa11761049 Swedish former soccer player and AC Milan's senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan, in Bergamo, Italy, 06 December 2024. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA
epa11761049 Swedish former soccer player and AC Milan’s senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan, in Bergamo, Italy, 06 December 2024. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA

“When the coach says something, you have to do it because he has a lot of experience,” said Nkunku.

“At that moment, I lived in my world, preparing to be ready. But it’s true, when you smile and see things positively, everything changes.

“Our target is to qualify for the Champions League, but we must focus on one game at a time. We also have a derby coming up, a special match.”

Nkunku played with Ibrahimovic at PSG, and now the ex-striker is an advisor for Gerry Cardinale’s Red Bird, who owns Milan.

PARMA, ITALY - NOVEMBER 08: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Abdoulaye Ndiaye of Parma during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Abdoulaye Ndiaye of Parma during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“Now I see Ibrahimovic wearing a jacket; before, he used to wear football boots. For the rest, it’s not a big change,” Nkunku said.

“He still has his character and desire to win. I remember that once in training, I made a mistake that made my team, which also included Ibra, lose. He didn’t say anything at first, but on the day of the game, inside the dressing room, he told me: ‘We lost, never again.'”

 

Coppa Italia: Napoli vs. Como – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV

January signing Giovane is expected to start his first game for Napoli against Cesc Fabregas’ Como in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals tonight.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Stadio Maradona.

The Partenopei are short of options in attack and midfield, with Scott McTominay, Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, David Neres, Matteo Politano and Billy Gilmour all injured.

TURIN, ITALY - JANUARY 25: Giovane of SSC Napoli runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Khephren Thuram of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Giovane of SSC Napoli runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Khephren Thuram of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SSC Napoli at Juventus Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Therefore, Eljif Elmas will start in central midfield alongside Stanislav Lobotka, while the attacking midfielders behind Rasmus Hojlund will be Giovane and Antonio Vergara, according to Sky Sport and Gazzetta.

Defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo is also injured, and Antonio Conte stated last week that the Italy international would be out of action for two months.

According to reports, Amir Rrahmani, Juan Jesus and Sam Beukema will start in central defence for the Partenopei.

Como are way more rested than Napoli as they didn’t play in Serie A this past weekend, making their last competitive outing on February 1.

Fabregas is expected to pick his ideal Como XI with Anastosis Douvikas and Nico Paz in attack. The only doubt for the Azzurri seems to be on the right wing with either Mergim Vojvoda or Jayden Addai starting.

The winner between Napoli and Como will meet Inter in the semi-finals.

Napoli vs. Como – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports 2 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide a live commentary via a live blog.

Napoli vs. Como – probable line-ups

Napoli (3-4-2-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Beukema, Rrahmani, Juan Jesus; Mazzocchi, Lobotka, Elmas, Olivera; Giovane, Vergara; Hojlund.

Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Smolcic, Ramon, Diego Carlos, Valle; Perrone, Da Cunha; Addai, Nico Paz, Baturina; Douvikas.

Today’s Papers – Juventus’ limits, Magic Malen

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Nkunku exclusive

Milan, I love you

‘I’m here to win, I know how to do it. I’ve never thought about leaving; I only needed time. Allegri told me to smile; he was right.’

Inter, no wing-back in Europe is as decisive as Dimarco

Juve: McKennie at San Siro as a false nine, then the renewal.

Roma, Malen’s brace. Cagliari surrendered (2-0).

Napoli, Coppa Italia target: Fabregas with an attacking Como.

Corriere dello Sport

Juve limits

Derby d’Italia on Saturday

Chivu’s team scores a goal every 7.7 shots. Spalletti also pays for Vlahovic’s absence.

Inter’s attack: 12 goals more. Yildiz alone. David-Openda flop.

Lautaro, Thuram, Esposito and Bonny have scored 29 goals. Lucio has made the playing style take off, but his quartet has only managed 17. Cristiano: +9 from the appointment of the ex-CT.

Napoli, Conte launches Giovane

Fenucci: ‘Yes to VAR, but not this way.’

Magic Malen: Roma sit fourth

A brace in front of Totti. The Dutchman has scored three goals in four matches. Gasperini catches Juventus.

Tuttosport

Maratona once again empty ‘to defend Toro’

‘The Italian VAR helps cheating.’

Everyone against the referees: Juve among the most affected, Ravanelli complains.

The ex-striker: ‘Abroad, they use technology differently.’ Irritated by referees’ mistakes, the Bianconeri seek replies from ref chiefs. Meantime Spalletti pushes for McKennie’s renewal. Ilic, Serbia’s fitness coach: ‘Vlahovic he’s hungry for goals, he’ll join Barça.’

Double Malen, Roma celebrate and catch Juve

Napoli-Como for the semis, Inter at stake

 

Ottolini on Juventus targets, new contracts and failure to secure a striker

New Juventus director Marco Ottolini confirms they ‘had tried’ to sign a striker in January, but are ‘proceeding with meetings’ for Luciano Spalletti and Weston McKennie contracts.

The Bianconeri did surprisingly little in the January transfer window, as although there were advanced negotiations with several forwards, including Randal Kolo Muani at Tottenham Hotspur via Paris Saint-Germain and Youssef En-Nesyri at Besiktas, nobody arrived.

Ottolini outlines Juventus strategy

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)
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)

“We had certain parameters that we had to stay within, so if there had been the right conditions, we would’ve done a deal,” director of sport Ottolini told Sport Mediaset.

“That was not the case for various reasons, but we are happy with the players we have, and we have faith in them.”

Last week was a celebratory one for Juventus, who locked talent Kenan Yildiz down to a new and improved contract.

PISA, ITALY - DECEMBER 27: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC reacts 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)
PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC reacts 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)

Now the focus can turn to others who are running down their current deals, including the coach and prolific midfielder McKennie.

“Now that the transfer window is closed, we can look at those issues of contract renewals, and that is what we are doing,” assured Ottolini.

“We are very happy with the Yildiz deal, with regards to McKennie we are proceeding with meetings, while we are very happy with the coach and will sit down with him over the next few weeks.”

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Juventus are up against Inter in the fiery Derby d’Italia on Saturday, trying to take down the runaway Serie A leaders, but Roma caught them in fourth place after a 2-2 draw with Lazio.

“At times results come, at others they don’t, but we are extremely happy with the way the team is performing, and we must keep going with conviction.”

After that, Juventus will also be gearing up for the Champions League play-off against Galatasaray.

“The extremely important objective for us is a top four finish, then we’ll concentrate on Istanbul, and hope to go through to the next round,” concluded Ottolini.

Report Palestra will get first Italy call for 2026 World Cup play-offs

Cagliari talent Marco Palestra, on loan from Atalanta, is likely to be called up by Gennaro Gattuso for Italy’s World Cup play-offs next month.

It would be the first senior call for the winger, who will celebrate his 21st birthday on March 3.

He was only one year old when Italy last won the World Cup in 2006, but he could help the Nazionale to qualify for the tournament in the USA, Mexico and Canada this summer, after missing the last two editions.

Palestra ready for senior Italy debut

FLORENCE, ITALY - JANUARY 24: Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

According to Sky Sport Italia, Palestra will be in the squad named by Gattuso for the play-offs, which start against Northern Ireland at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on March 26.

If they win, then the Final of the play-off will be against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31.

CAGLIARI, ITALY - JANUARY 02: Marco Palestra of Cagliari in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Sant'Elia on January 02, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 02: Marco Palestra of Cagliari in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 02, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

A product of the Atalanta youth academy, Palestra plays on the right side of Cagliari’s 3-5-2 formation, but can also be a right-back.

He contributed one goal and four assists in 23 Serie A games for the Sardinians so far this season.

The possible absence of Napoli captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo on the right further boosts Palestra’s chances of featuring.

Gasperini: ‘Malen will score ton of Roma goals, he’s in the Vialli mould’

Gian Piero Gasperini cannot hide his joy at Donyell Malen’s arrival for Roma after the brace to beat Cagliari. ‘He is in the Gianluca Vialli mould, he will score a ton of goals.’

The Giallorossi knew that this was a big opportunity to recapture fourth place after Juventus were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.

They certainly took it, as Malen bagged a goal either side of half-time to secure the 2-0 victory, beating a Cagliari side who were coming off three consecutive wins, yet had just one shot on target.

Gasperini feels Malen brings ‘vast repertoire’ to Roma

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“Undoubtedly it was a very good performance, the first half especially was played at a strong tempo,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.

“We were coming off a defeat to Udinese, but the team showed great strength of character to react to those difficulties, and also played some very good football. It’s a pity we didn’t score more goals, as it left the game somewhat open, but it was good.”

Malen really was the striker that the coach had been looking for, having criticised the movements of Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson, which the former Aston Villa man seems to already understand so well.

“I am convinced he will score a ton of goals this season, so we must know how to give him the right service for his characteristics. We’ve got quality in the attack that is difficult to contain now, as he has a vast repertoire,” smiled Gasperini.

In the post-match interview, Malen had been asked if he wanted to follow in the footsteps of Serie A’s ultimate Dutch legend Marco van Basten, and blushed at the comparison.

“Van Basten was physically very different too, but I do see more similarities with Vialli, in his power, the movement to shake off markers, diagonal runs attacking the space, there is something in the Vialli mould,” insisted Gasperini.

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen #14 with his teammates of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen #14 with his teammates of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

There was also a debut for January signing Bryan Zaragoza, who seemed considerably more impressive going forward than when defending.

Now that the transfer window has closed, did Gasperini get all the characteristics he was looking for to challenge the others in the fight for the top four?

“We always try to be up to the standards of our rivals. We have caught Juventus, while Napoli and Milan are there, Inter have gone by now I think, Atalanta and Como are not far behind us. If we are up there after 24 rounds, that is important, but we want to keep growing in attack.

“The arrival of Malen certainly gives us much more. Now we hope to get some of the players back from injury, but it’s undeniable you need a prolific and efficient set of forwards, otherwise you will not achieve the prestigious targets.”

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma scores the team's second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma scores the team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Cagliari only really threatened Roma with the attacks of wing-back Marco Palestra, who Gasperini had launched into the Atalanta squad last season.

“Palestra was born in 2005, so he’s a kid, but already a top player. We started training him with the youth team at the age of 17, but seeing as Atalanta had an Under-23 team set up by then, and we had a lot of alternatives in the role, he played for them.

“He played a bit in Serie A and the Champions League last season, so it helped, but he is now really flourishing at a young age.”

In an unusually good mood, this was also a rare match without a single VAR intervention.

“It was wonderful, it’s the best! It means everything went smoothly, we didn’t see a lot of stoppages either, so we got to see more football. When the referee sees it all and is able to judge without cameras, that’s the perfect match.”

Malen blushes at Van Basten comparison: ‘He was a very special player’

Donyell Malen blushed at Marco van Basten comparisons after scoring three goals in his first four Serie A games for Roma. ‘I’m very happy, it was a good day.’

It was a great night for the Giallorossi, and by no means to be taken for granted considering Cagliari were coming off three consecutive victories.

Malen had scored on his Serie A debut against Torino on January 18, but these were his first goals at the Stadio Olimpico, and his first brace.

The former Aston Villa striker first beat Elia Caprile from the tightest of angles with a delicate dink, then got between defenders to slide onto the Zeki Celik roll across from the right.

Malen having ideal start at Roma

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Inevitably, he was the Lega Serie A Man of the Match, so is the Dutchman looking to follow in the footsteps of Milan legend Marco van Basten in Italian football?

“Van Basten was a very special player, no!” blushed Malen on Sky Sport Italia.

“I’m very happy, a good win, I’m happy with the goals, nice assist, everybody played well, so it was a good day.”

Malen arrived on loan from Aston Villa at a cost of €2m, with option to buy for €25m that can become an obligation of Roma qualify for European football at the end of this season.

He now has an impressive three goals in just four Serie A games.

UDINE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 02: Donyell Malen of Roma during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Donyell Malen of Roma during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Friuli on February 02, 2026 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Standing next to Roma youth academy product Niccolò Pisilli, Malen was asked for a verdict on the midfielder.

“He’s amazing, I always talk to him in training, we need players with his kind of energy, and he brings that to the team.”

The Giallorossi knew that a victory would allow them to catch Juventus in joint fourth place, after the Bianconeri were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.

“It was a good performance, I tried to give my contribution, we played with a lot of intensity, and at times some quality football,” added Pisilli to Sky Sport Italia.

“A modern football player must be able to do everything, especially in midfield.”

Serie A | Roma 2-0 Cagliari: Malen magic to fly into joint fourth

Donyell Malen bagged his first brace in the Roma jersey to beat on-form Cagliari, allowing them to catch Juventus in fourth place, with Bryan Zaragoza also making his debut.

The Giallorossi missed Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz, Mario Hermoso, Manu Koné, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy, while Gianluca Mancini played with a protective mask after surgery on a broken nose, but deadline day signing Bryan Zaragoza was on the bench. The Sardinians had won three on the bounce against Juventus, Fiorentina and Verona, and beat Roma 1-0 back on December 7 after Zeki Celik saw red. Yerry Mina, Alessandro Deiola, Michael Folorunsho, Gennaro Borrelli, Mattia Felici and Andrea Belotti missed the trip.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma competes for the ball with Sebastiano Esposi of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma competes for the ball with Sebastiano Esposi of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Malen was denied by a desperate Juan Rodriguez block from six yards, then Elia Caprile almost got into a terrible tangle controlling a back-pass, forced to sprint back and clear it before the ball completely crossed the line of an empty net.

Matias Soulé curled just wide of the far post, while Niccolò Pisilli rode two tackles to test Caprile at the base of the near post.

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Matias Soule of AS Roma competes for the ball with Juan Martin Rodriguez Camejo of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Matias Soule of AS Roma competes for the ball with Juan Martin Rodriguez Camejo of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Roma took the lead with a moment of rare skill, as Malen ran onto the Mancini through ball down the right and dinked up a delicate finish over the on-rushing Caprile to score from the tightest of angles with his right foot. It was the ex-Aston Villa striker’s first goal at the Stadio Olimpico.

Donyell Malen hits a perfect chip to give Roma the lead over Cagliari 😮‍💨

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/aG8KVFaLaE

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 9, 2026

Malen threatened again with a header off target at the back stick, while Daniele Ghilardi nodded a Lorenzo Pellegrini cross just wide.

Zaragoza made his debut and immediately stood up a cross for the audacious Malen scissor-kick volley at the back post, but it was Zeki Celik who provided the assist for the second Malen goal, rolling it across from the right for the tap-in from point-blank range, getting between defenders.

Donyell Malen at the double to extend Roma's lead 💥

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/bmMS8LxMNG

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 9, 2026

There was almost a third moments later, but this time Malen sliding in couldn’t connect with the Soulé ball across the six-yard box.

Zaragoza also tested Caprile at the base of the near post, but his error allowed Marco Palestra to break down the right and force a tricky Mile Svilar save.

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Donyell Malen of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Cagliari threatened to get back into it at the 79th minute when a sudden long-range Ibrahim Sulemana scorcher clipped the top of the crossbar.

ROME, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Evan Ndicka of AS Roma competes for the ball with Sebastiano Esposito of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Evan Ndicka of AS Roma competes for the ball with Sebastiano Esposito of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on February 09, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

They also went close when Alberto Dossena at full stretch flicked inches wide of the back stick on a free kick.

Neil El Aynaoui came off the bench and immediately tested Caprile with a powerful volley.

Roma 2-0 Cagliari

Malen 25, 65 (R)

09-02-2026 19:45
MatchDay 24

Player statistic

1st half
    5' Alberto Dossena
Donyell Malen
(Assist: Gianluca Mancini)
25'    
    40' Marco Palestra
2nd half
Gianluca Mancini 58'    
    61' Gianluca Gaetano
Donyell Malen
(Assist: Zeki Celik)
Goal 65'    
Bryan Zaragoza 82'    
    89' Yellow card Riyad Idrissi

Match statistic

57
Possession %
43
15
Total shots
3
5
Shots on target
1
6
Shots off target
2
4
Blocked shots
0
7
Corners
1
3
Offsides
0
18
Fouls
14
Roma
Cagliari

Starting lineups

99
Goalkeeper
87
Defender
5
Defender
23
Defender
43
Defender
19
Defender
4
Midfielder
84'
7
Midfielder
57'
61
Midfielder
14
Attacker
84'
18
Attacker
84'
1
Goalkeeper
33
Defender
22
Defender
15
Defender
2
Defender
32
Defender
87'
10
Midfielder
87'
4
Midfielder
59'
8
Midfielder
94
73'
9
73'

Substitutes

3
Defender
95
Goalkeeper
12
2
Defender
24
Defender
91
Goalkeeper
97
Attacker
57'
8
Midfielder
84'
20
84'
68
Attacker
84'
24
Goalkeeper
12
Goalkeeper
27
Midfielder
20
18
Midfielder
31
Attacker
25
Midfielder
59'
30
73'
3
Defender
73'
28
Defender
87'
37
Attacker
87'

Palladino: ‘Atalanta showed maturity, we wanted Raspadori at all costs’

Raffaele Palladino saw the kind of ‘maturity’ he was looking for in Atalanta’s 2-1 win over Cremonese, and admits they ‘wanted Giacomo Raspadori at all costs.’

La Dea were feeling confident after last week’s 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Juventus, but knew they had struggled against the newly-promoted clubs in Serie A.

That issue was resolved this evening thanks to goals from Nikola Krstovic and Davide Zappacosta, although it was once again a tense finale despite their overall domination, when Morten Thorsby got one back late on.

Palladino sees Atalanta progress

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“It was an important response from the squad, including those who haven’t played as much, like Mario Pasalic, and Lazar Samardzic, who had to step in at the last second,” Palladino told DAZN Italia.

The late change was because Charles De Ketelaere pulled out in the warm-up with a knee issue, having already lost Gianluca Scamacca earlier in the day.

Marten de Roon and Honest Ahanor were also suspended, further limiting the options available.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Lazar Samardzic of Atalanta BC reacts during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Lazar Samardzic of Atalanta BC reacts during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Sead Kolasinac hadn’t started for a while either, Krstovic had a great performance, so they all had the right spirit today. I like that whoever plays, they step up and give the best of their abilities.

“They give their all and sweat for the jersey. That must be the spirit of this team, it is what our fans need to see.”

When Palladino took the job from Ivan Juric, Atalanta were in 13th place and just one point ahead of Cremonese, but the situation has been transformed and they qualified for the Coppa Italia semi-final, and the Champions League play-offs too.

“We are happy and proud, but must also remember we’ve done nothing yet, because we’re still lagging behind in the Serie A table,” warned the coach.

“I said this game would be a test of our maturity, and I saw a very mature team.”

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates with his team after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates with his team after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The arrival of Raspadori from Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window, with Ademola Lookman going the other way, also added a different dimension to the Atalanta attack.

“Jack is a player we wanted at all costs,” explained Palladino.

“The club did really well to make him understand this was the right project for him. He’s young, Italian, and a winner, so he brought the right mentality and settled in straight away. He’s got to play as much as possible to find his best form, as he’s still lacking a bit of sharpness, but I’m very happy with what he’s doing.”

Cagliari: ‘Semih Kilicsoy can be worth €40m, we’d be crazy not to buy him’

Cagliari director Guido Angelozzi reveals how they got to secure the Semih Kilicsoy bargain from Besiktas, noting they’d be ‘crazy not to’ buy him. ‘He can be worth €40m.’

The Sardinians are in action at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome this evening for their Serie A Week 24 fixture against Roma.

You can follow the action as it happens from that game on the Liveblog.

Kilicsoy has flourished at Cagliari

CAGLIARI, ITALY - JANUARY 31: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari scores his team's second goal (2-0) 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)
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari scores his team’s second goal (2-0) 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)

Few knew who Kilicsoy was when he arrived in Cagliari over the summer from Besiktas, on loan for €1m with an option to buy for a further €12m.

There are also another €2m in add-ons, and Besiktas are owed a 10 per cent cut of any future sale fee.

“He is a great talent and there are many teams around Europe who are watching him,” Angelozzi told Sky Sport Italia.

There were reports last week that Cagliari tried to activate the purchase option early in order to save money, but that Besiktas refused to change the terms of the agreement.

That makes it clear that the Serie A club will use the option for €12m, though.

“How can we not? We’d be crazy not to buy him,” explained the director.

TURIN, ITALY - DECEMBER 27: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari Calcio is challenged by Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 27, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari Calcio is challenged by Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 27, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Turkiye coach Vincenzo Montella is in Italy at the moment and has been visiting some of his players who are in Serie A, including Kilicsoy.

“He is a young and extraordinary player, who scored some remarkable goals. Montella visited us and said he is a very interesting player,” added Angelozzi.

“If he keeps going like this, he can be worth €40m.”

How did Cagliari manage to beat everyone to sign this young talent, who was only 19 when he joined?

“Agent Federico Pastorello suggested him to our President, so we started tracking him, sent a scout to Turkiye, and then called Montella’s assistant manager, who spoke highly of the player.”

Video: Malen scores delightful first Roma goal at the Olimpico

Watch as former Aston Villa striker Donyell Malen scores his first Roma goal at the Stadio Olimpico with a delicate chipped finish from a tight angle against Cagliari.

You can follow the action as it happens from that Serie A match on the Liveblog.

The centre-forward has really flourished since his January transfer to Italy, on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season.

He broke the deadlock this evening in the Eternal City when running onto a Gianluca Mancini pass and dinking the finish over on-rushing goalkeeper Elia Caprile from the tightest of angles.

The Dutchman had also scored on his Roma debut, a 2-0 result away to Torino on January 18, but this was his first goal at the Stadio Olimpico.

Malen on target for Roma

Donyell Malen hits a perfect chip to give Roma the lead over Cagliari 😮‍💨

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/aG8KVFaLaE

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 9, 2026

WHAT A CHIP FROM DONYELL MALEN 😱

Two goals in his first four matches at Roma 🔥 pic.twitter.com/iyeG0xJveI

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 9, 2026

Montella: ‘Kenan Yildiz has some similarities’ with hero Del Piero

Turkiye coach Vincenzo Montella visited the Juventus training camp today and assured Kenan Yildiz ‘has immense potential and some similarities’ to Alessandro Del Piero.

The former Roma boss is taking the Turkish team to the 2026 World Cup this summer, so is visiting his home country to speak with some of the players available for selection.

You can read his comments on Cagliari talent Semih Kilicsoy here.

Montella visits Turkish talent in Serie A

DORTMUND, GERMANY - JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Montella was present at the Continassa training camp in Turin today, where he was a guest of Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti.

Of course, he was there to see Kenan Yildiz, who just signed a new contract with the Bianconeri until June 2030.

“I am very happy, Kenan was already part of the national team when he was still in the Next Gen Juventus team,” Montella told Il Messaggero newspaper via Tuttomercatoweb.

“He is a player with immense potential and is still developing. Kenan manages to combine natural talent with the right mentality, as he really wants to keep improving himself.

“I predict a future for him at the highest level for many years to come.”

Kenan Yildiz adores Del Piero

TURIN, ITALY - MARCH 29: Kenan Yıldız of Juventus celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus and Genoa at the Allianz Stadium on March 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 29: Kenan Yıldız of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Juventus and Genoa at the Allianz Stadium on March 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

There were some references to Del Piero in the announcement of a new contract for Kenan Yildiz, who never disguised that Pinturicchio was his hero.

Wearing the Number 10 jersey, can he follow in Del Piero’s footsteps at Juve?

“There are some similarities, for example the way he shoots, and he has already scored some goals that are very similar to ones netted by Alex, but in terms of general characteristics, they are different,” noted Montella.

Massara: ‘Roma definitive decisions on new contracts, Totti and what is best for club’

Roma director Ricky Massara admits it is time for ‘definitive’ decisions on new contracts for Paulo Dybala and others, while Francesco Totti is again present. ‘We want what is best for Roma.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Atalanta-Cremonese on the Liveblog.

New signing Bryan Zaragoza is on the bench ready for his debut, but Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz, Mario Hermoso, Manu Koné, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy are out of action.

Gianluca Mancini had surgery last week for a broken nose, so he is able to play with a protective mask this evening.

Roma looking to future beyond this season

Bryan Zaragoza with Roma director Frederic Massara (asroma.com)
Bryan Zaragoza with Roma director Frederic Massara (asroma.com)

“Zaragoza was an opportunity that presented itself at the end of the transfer market, a strong player who has the characteristics that we were specifically lacking in our attack,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.

There are reports that Dybala and Pellegrino will need to take pay cuts if they are to be given new contracts at the Stadio Olimpico, while Zeki Celik and El Shaarawy are also only tied to the club until June 30.

“This is the moment to make some definitive reflections,” confessed the Roma director.

“We have always had a good rapport with the agents of these players, so we need to sit down around a table and understand if there is the possibility of an agreement.

“All the players whose contracts are running down have never lacked in their commitment and professionalism.”

TURIN, ITALY - JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Director Claudio Ranieri suggested last week that the Friedkin family are thinking about bringing club icon Totti into the fold, so is it a coincidence that the former captain is in the stands again this evening?

“Totti is the history of this club,” replied Massara.

“He has a very good rapport with the Friedkins, and this kind of evaluation is entirely down to the club, whose objective is to do what is best for Roma.

“They will know if and when it is opportune to start working together.”

GENOA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 28: Francesco Totti, former captain of Roma, reacts prior to kick-off in the Serie A TIM match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on September 28, 2023 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Francesco Totti, former captain of Roma, reacts prior to kick-off in the Serie A TIM match between Genoa CFC and AS Roma at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on September 28, 2023 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

This is a big opportunity for the Giallorossi to climb back into joint fourth place with Juventus, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.

It won’t be easy, as Cagliari are on a run of three consecutive victories against Juve, Fiorentina and Hellas Verona, also beating Roma 1-0 back on December 7 when Zeki Celik was sent off.

Serie A | Atalanta 2-1 Cremonese: Dea do just enough after controlling match

Atalanta secured a 2-1 victory with Nikola Krstovic and Davide Zappacosta goals, though Morten Thorsby finally ended Cremonese’s goal drought on his debut.

La Dea were fresh off a 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Juventus, but in Serie A had drawn two of the last three. Marten De Roon and Honest Ahanor sat out bans, but Gianluca Scamacca was not fully fit and Charles De Ketelaere pulled out in the warm-up, replaced by Lazar Samardzic. Cremonese missed Matteo Bianchetti, Warren Bondo, Michele Collocolo and Jari Vandeputte, but had new buys Morten Thorsby and Youssef Maleh. They were without a win since December 7, managing three draws and six defeats.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Davide Nicola, Head Coach of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Davide Nicola, Head Coach of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Federico Baschirotto charged down an early effort from his former Lecce teammate Nikola Krstovic, while Emil Audero palmed a Giacomo Raspadori strike out from under the bar. On the resulting corner, he fingertipped a Berat Djimsiti header onto the upright.

The early siege paid off when Krstovic hooked a Raspadori cross with his back to goal, turned his marker and immediately smashed the finish in at the near bottom corner.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates with his team after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Nikola Krstovic of Atalanta BC celebrates with his team after scoring his sides first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

It was nearly 2-0 when Raspadori sent Nicola Zalewski down the left, his cross found Samardzic on the edge of the area to rattle the crossbar with a ferocious strike.

That did come eventually, as Davide Zappacosta sprinted down the right, cut inside Giuseppe Pezzella and bent the left-foot finish across Audero into the far bottom corner from a tight angle. It was his first goal of the season.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Davide Zappacosta of Atalanta celebrates after scoring his teams second goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Davide Zappacosta of Atalanta celebrates after scoring his teams second goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Cremonese saw Tommaso Barbieri and Thorsby attempts go off target, but then lost Federico Ceccherini to a muscular problem.

Zalewski’s daisy-cutter skimmed the base of the upright, while Thorsby couldn’t keep his free header on target from a Baschirotto cross.

Samardzic drilled just wide of the far post on a Zalewski pull-back, then Raspadori fired over from Ederson’s cross after a Lorenzo Bernasconi back-heel flick.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 09: Karnaldeen Sulemana of Atalanta during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 09: Karnaldeen Sulemana of Atalanta during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Cremonese at Gewiss Stadium on February 09, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Ederson was a little hesitant when sent clear and allowed Baschirotto to make the last-ditch tackle, while Kamaldeen Sulemana fired straight at Audero after squirming away from two defenders.

Milan Djuric thought he’d ended Cremonese’s goal drought in the final minute with a header at the back post on Alessio Zerbin’s cross, but Marco Carnesecchi clawed it off the line.

In stoppages, there was a mad scramble on a corner until Berat Djimsiti prodded it over the line from six yards, but it was disallowed because Sulemana was offside in one of those attempts.

Instead, Cremonese ended their goal drought after almost a full five games without finding the net. New signing Thorsby controlled a Sebastiano Luperto cross from the left, juggled it off his head, and hit the volley off balance to surprise Carnesecchi.

Atalanta 2-1 Cremonese

Krstovic 13 (A), Zappacosta 25 (A), Thorsby 94 (C)

Player statistic

1st half
Nikola Krstovic
(Assist: Giacomo Raspadori)
13'    
Davide Zappacosta
(Assist: Mario Pasalic)
25'    
2nd half
Sead Kolasinac 49'    
Odilon Kossounou Yellow card 82'    
    90+4' Goal Morten Thorsby
(Assist: Sebastiano Luperto)

Match statistic

57
Possession %
43
29
Total shots
12
9
Shots on target
2
10
Shots off target
7
10
Blocked shots
3
13
Corners
2
2
Offsides
4
11
Fouls
11
Atalanta
Cremonese

Starting lineups

29
Goalkeeper
19
Defender
77
59'
42
Defender
23
Defender
59'
13
Midfielder
10
Midfielder
70'
8
Midfielder
59
Midfielder
70'
18
78'
90
Attacker
1
Goalkeeper
23
40'
3
5
4
Defender
84'
33
Midfielder
63'
2
Midfielder
29
Midfielder
90
46'
10
Attacker
63'

Substitutes

31
Goalkeeper
57
Goalkeeper
9
Defender
17
4
Defender
16
Defender
59'
3
Defender
59'
47
70'
7
Midfielder
70'
6
Midfielder
78'
69
Goalkeeper
16
Goalkeeper
14
Attacker
55
Defender
25
Defender
24
Midfielder
40'
9
Attacker
46'
99
Attacker
63'
32
Midfielder
63'
7
Attacker
84'

Serie A official Week 24 line-ups: Roma vs. Cagliari

Roma start Donyell Malen, Matias Soulé and Lorenzo Pellegrini against Semih Kilicsoy’s on-form Cagliari, as a victory would put them in joint fourth spot.

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Atalanta-Cremonese on the Liveblog.

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)
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)

The injury crisis drags on for the Giallorossi, even after they had the rare treat of a whole week to prepare for this match.

Form has been stuttering of late, managing only draws with Milan and Panathinaikos, then defeated 1-0 at Udinese last Monday.

Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz and Mario Hermoso were added to the injury list, which already included Artem Dovbyk, Manu Koné, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy.

Gianluca Mancini had surgery for a broken nose and therefore has to play with a protective mask.

Gian Piero Gasperini was tempted to launch deadline day signing Bryan Zaragoza directly into the starting XI with fellow January buy Malen, backed by Soulé, but instead opts for Pellegrini.

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)
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)

As Juventus were held 2-2 by Lazio last night, it means a win here would put Roma back in joint fourth place.

Cagliari are on sparkling form after three consecutive Serie A victories against Juventus, Fiorentina and Verona, which saw them climb to mid-table comfort.

They also remember beating Roma 1-0 in Sardinia back on December 7 after Zeki Celik was sent off.

Coach Fabio Pisacane is missing some big players too, as Yerry Mina, Alessandro Deiola, Michael Folorunsho, Gennaro Borrelli, Mattia Felici and Andrea Belotti are out of action.

Turkish talent Semih Kilicsoy is flourishing, with Sebastiano Esposito and Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra.

Alberto Dossena was added to the squad on deadline day from Como.

Roma vs. Cagliari line-ups

Roma: Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Ghilardi; Celik, Cristante, Pisilli, Wesley; Soulé, Pellegrini; Malen

Cagliari: Caprile; Ze Pedro, Dossena, Rodriguez, Obert; Adopo, Gaetano, Mazzitelli; Palestra, Kilicsoy, Esposito

09-02-2026 19:45
MatchDay 24

Player statistic

1st half
    5' Alberto Dossena
Donyell Malen
(Assist: Gianluca Mancini)
25'    
    40' Marco Palestra
2nd half
Gianluca Mancini 58'    
    61' Gianluca Gaetano
Donyell Malen
(Assist: Zeki Celik)
Goal 65'    
Bryan Zaragoza 82'    
    89' Yellow card Riyad Idrissi

Match statistic

57
Possession %
43
15
Total shots
3
5
Shots on target
1
6
Shots off target
2
4
Blocked shots
0
7
Corners
1
3
Offsides
0
18
Fouls
14
Roma
Cagliari

Starting lineups

99
Goalkeeper
87
Defender
5
Defender
23
Defender
43
Defender
19
Defender
4
Midfielder
84'
7
Midfielder
57'
61
Midfielder
14
Attacker
84'
18
Attacker
84'
1
Goalkeeper
33
Defender
22
Defender
15
Defender
2
Defender
32
Defender
87'
10
Midfielder
87'
4
Midfielder
59'
8
Midfielder
94
73'
9
73'

Substitutes

3
Defender
95
Goalkeeper
12
2
Defender
24
Defender
91
Goalkeeper
97
Attacker
57'
8
Midfielder
84'
20
84'
68
Attacker
84'
24
Goalkeeper
12
Goalkeeper
27
Midfielder
20
18
Midfielder
31
Attacker
25
Midfielder
59'
30
73'
3
Defender
73'
28
Defender
87'
37
Attacker
87'

Fabregas: ‘Como with usual mindset in iconic Napoli stadium’

Cesc Fabregas insists Como will face Napoli with ‘our usual mindset’ in tomorrow’s Coppa Italia quarter-final in an ‘iconic stadium.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Tuesday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

The winners will then go on to face Inter in the two-legged semi-final.

However, tomorrow victory is to be decided after 90 minutes, or go directly to a penalty shoot-out, as there is no extra time.

Fabregas and Como ambitious in Coppa Italia

NAPLES, ITALY - NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“Tomorrow we have a huge game ahead of us,” warned Fabregas to the official Como website.

“It is a knockout match against the reigning Italian champions, playing in an iconic stadium. We will go out there with our usual mindset and keep our focus sharp.”

When these sides met here earlier in the season in Serie A, it ended 0-0 on November 1, a very positive result for the Lariani.

NAPLES, ITALY - NOVEMBER 01: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Ivan Smolcic of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Rasmus Hojlund of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Ivan Smolcic of Como 1907 during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

Assane Diao is the only remaining injury absentee, but it remains to be seen if Fabregas will impose any squad rotation for this test.

They had crushed Lazio 3-0 and Torino 6-0 before the Coppa Italia Round of 16 victory away to Fiorentina, 3-1.

However, last Sunday the team failed to break down 10-man Atalanta in a goalless draw, with Marco Carnesecchi saving the last-gasp Nico Paz penalty.

They didn’t play at the weekend, as their game with Milan was postponed for the Winter Olympics opening ceremony at San Siro.

Our team for the Coppa Italia match against Napoli 🔵 pic.twitter.com/aWyclDJVAX

— Como1907 (@Como_1907) February 9, 2026

De Ketelaere forces Atalanta into last-minute change ahead of Cremonese

Charles De Ketelaere was initially named in the Atalanta starting line-up to take on Cremonese in Serie A on Monday evening, but the Belgium international was forced to drop out at the last minute. 

De Ketelaere drops out of Atalanta line-up at the last minute

De Ketelaere felt something in his knee during the warm-up ahead of Monday’s Serie A clash between Atalanta and Cremonese at the New Balance Arena and was unable to take his place in the starting line-up. That made for an opportunity for Lazar Samardzic to play instead. 

You can follow the action from Monday evening’s Serie A matches on the Football Italia Liveblog.

VERONA, ITALY - DECEMBER 06: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta looks on during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Atalanta BC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on December 06, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
VERONA, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta looks on during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Atalanta BC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on December 06, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Raffaele Palladino already had injuries in mind when naming his starting line-up. Gianluca Scamacca started and scored in the 3-0 Coppa Italia victory over Juventus on Thursday, but reported a minor issue in training ahead of the Cremonese match and was also unavailable to start. 

Nikola Krstovic started at centre-forward instead and opened the scoring for La Dea within 13 minutes against Cremonese.

Napoli earn €5.5m after Simeone appearance in Fiorentina 2-2 Torino

Reports in Italy confirm that Torino officially triggered their obligation to buy clause for striker Giovanni Simeone during their 2-2 draw with Fiorentina in Serie A, which is set to bring in around €5.5m for selling club Napoli. 

Official: Torino have triggered Simeone obligation to buy from Napoli

Simeone has spent the 2025-26 on loan with Torino in a deal that also includes an obligation to buy. 

According to reports from Tuttosport and Calciomercato.com, the obligation to buy clause kicked in after Torino’s first match in February, which happened to be the 2-2 draw with Fiorentina over the weekend. 

FLORENCE, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Giovanni Simeone of Torino FC celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Giovanni Simeone of Torino FC celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Artemio Franchi on February 7, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

This means that Torino will be obliged to pay Napoli a fee of €5.5m plus up to an extra €1m in easily achievable add-ons. Torino have already paid the Partenopei a reported fee of €1.5m to sign Simeone on loan for the 2025-26 season. 

Simeone has scored five goals from 18 outings in Serie A so far this season. 

Roma one point away from signing Ghilardi permanently: How much will Verona and Fiorentina earn?

Roma are just one point away from triggering the obligation to buy clause in Daniele Ghilardi’s contract, which will bring a small financial boost for both Hellas Verona and Fiorentina. 

Roma one point away from permanent Ghilardi signing: Verona and Fiorentina profit

Ghilardi joined Roma on loan with a potential obligation to buy during the summer transfer window. The 23-year-old has had to bide his time for opportunities at the Stadio Olimpico, but he has since started in four of the last five rounds of Serie A fixtures. 

Ghilardi joined Roma with a loan fee reported to be worth €2.5m. The Giallorossi will also have to pay a further €8m plus potentially €1m in bonuses in the event that his transfer is made permanent. 

ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 21: Daniele Ghilardi of AS Roma in action prior the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Daniele Ghilardi in action prior the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico on September 21, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Silvia Lore/Getty Images)

According to reports from Calciomercato.com, the option to buy clause in Ghilardi’s contract will be triggered after the first point that Roma pick up during the month of February. There is a high possibility that that happens on Monday evening, as long as Gian Piero Gasperini’s side avoids defeat at home against Cagliari in Serie A (kicking off at 19.45 GMT). 

You can follow the action from Monday night’s Serie A matches on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Ghilardi’s former club, Verona, will not receive the full fee once the transfer is made permanent, though, as Fiorentina are entitled to a 50% sell-on clause. 

That means that both Verona and Fiorentina will receive €4m for Ghilardi’s transfer to Roma (plus up to €500,000 each in bonuses). Verona and Fiorentina also split the €2.5m loan fee equally.

Serie A: Atalanta vs. Cremonese – Confirmed line-ups

Nikola Krstovic is called back in to lead the line for Atalanta, who face off against Jamie Vardy and Cremonese in Serie A on Monday evening. 

Atalanta are coming in off the back of a 3-0 Coppa Italia victory over Juventus on Thursday evening and a 0-0 draw after being reduced to 10 men early on in their away game against Como last time out in Serie A. 

Raffaele Palladino’s side sit in seventh place in the league table ahead of kick-off. 

COMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 01: Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta BC is congratulated by teammates after saving a penalty 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)
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta BC is congratulated by teammates after saving a penalty 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)

Cremonese had started the 2025-26 season in impressive form, but have only picked up two points from their last seven matches in Serie A, which has them tumbling concerningly towards the relegation zone. 

Davide Nicola’s side are in 16th place, five points above the drop zone ahead of kick-off. 

Atalanta have stuck with the same core of the team that beat Juventus in the cup for tonight’s game against Cremonese, but have swapped Honest Ahanor for Sead Kolasinac at the back, Mario Pasalic for Marten De Roon, Nicola Zalewski in place of Luca Bernasconi and Nikola Krstovic instead of Gianluca Scammaca at centre-forward. 

Cremonese once again turn to Jamie Vardy and Federico Bonazzoli to lead their attacking line. They have made three changes after their recent 2-0 loss against Inter, with Sebastiano Luperto coming in for Francesco Folino, Tommaso Barbieri instead of Filippo Terracciano and Morten Thorsby instead of Alessio Zerbin. 

CREMONA, ITALY - JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
CREMONA, ITALY – JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

Kick-off is due at 17.30 GMT. 

Atalanta vs. Cremonese: Confirmed line-ups 

Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, Ederson, Pasalic, Zalewski; De Ketelaere, Raspadori; Krstovic.

Cremonese (3-5-2): Audero; Ceccherini, Baschirotto, Luperto; Barbieri, Thorsby, Grassi, Maleh, Pezzella; Vardy, Bonazzoli.

Player statistic

1st half
Nikola Krstovic
(Assist: Giacomo Raspadori)
13'    
Davide Zappacosta
(Assist: Mario Pasalic)
25'    
2nd half
Sead Kolasinac 49'    
Odilon Kossounou Yellow card 82'    
    90+4' Goal Morten Thorsby
(Assist: Sebastiano Luperto)

Match statistic

57
Possession %
43
29
Total shots
12
9
Shots on target
2
10
Shots off target
7
10
Blocked shots
3
13
Corners
2
2
Offsides
4
11
Fouls
11
Atalanta
Cremonese

Starting lineups

29
Goalkeeper
19
Defender
77
59'
42
Defender
23
Defender
59'
13
Midfielder
10
Midfielder
70'
8
Midfielder
59
Midfielder
70'
18
78'
90
Attacker
1
Goalkeeper
23
40'
3
5
4
Defender
84'
33
Midfielder
63'
2
Midfielder
29
Midfielder
90
46'
10
Attacker
63'

Substitutes

31
Goalkeeper
57
Goalkeeper
9
Defender
17
4
Defender
16
Defender
59'
3
Defender
59'
47
70'
7
Midfielder
70'
6
Midfielder
78'
69
Goalkeeper
16
Goalkeeper
14
Attacker
55
Defender
25
Defender
24
Midfielder
40'
9
Attacker
46'
99
Attacker
63'
32
Midfielder
63'
7
Attacker
84'

Tardelli: I miss Agnelli and ‘hope Juventus find a new owner’

Italy and Juventus legend Marco Tardelli was highly critical of Bianconeri owner John Elkann, saying that he doesn’t follow the team enough: ‘I hope they find a new owner.’

Tardelli did not hold back his criticism of Juventus owner Elkann while attending the premiere of the documentary film ‘Juventus, Primo Amore’, which recounts Juventus’ sporting achievements between 1975 and 1985.

When the 1982 Italy World Cup winner was asked what Juventus are lacking currently, he replied (via Gazzetta): “Somebody who loves Juventus.

Tardelli: ‘Perhaps I miss Andrea Agnelli’

“The Avvocato [ex-Juventus President Gianni Agnelli] didn’t use Juventus as a business, but he enjoyed being with the players. Nowadays, the owners don’t follow it much. I’ve never really been on good terms with him, but perhaps I miss Andrea Agnelli. He was on the pitch. Back then, there was somebody you could talk to.

TURIN, ITALY - OCTOBER 15: Andrea Agnelli, President of Juventus looks on prior to during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Juventus at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 15, 2022 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 15: Andrea Agnelli, President of Juventus looks on prior to during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Juventus at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 15, 2022 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“Now the Frenchmen have arrived, and despite having made a mess of things, they’re still there,” concluded Tardelli.

“I hope Juventus find a new owner.”

Comolli only arrived at Juventus last summer as the Bianconeri sacked sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli after two seasons.

Official: Kenan Yildiz signs a new contract extension with Juventus until 2030 (also pictured: Marco Ottolini, Giorgio Chiellini, John Elkann, Damien Comolli and Francois Modesto). Picture via www.juventus.com
Official: Kenan Yildiz signs a new contract extension with Juventus until 2030 (also pictured: Marco Ottolini, Giorgio Chiellini, John Elkann, Damien Comolli and Francois Modesto). Picture via www.juventus.com

Following Comolli’s appointment, Juventus also promoted their legend Giorgio Chiellini as the Director of Football Strategy, François Modesto as the Technical Director and Marco Ottolini as the Sporting Director.

Comolli was initially Juventus’ General Manager, but was promoted to the club’s CEO this past November.

Juventus recently announced Kenan Yildiz’s contract extension until 2030. They currently sit fourth in the standings, 12 points below leaders Inter.

Inter star Dimarco sets new assists record for defenders after 5-0 Sassuolo victory

Inter and Italy star Federico Dimarco has set a new record for the most assists provided by a defender in Serie A after 24 matches after laying on three goals for his teammates during Sunday evening’s 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo

Dimarco shining for Inter and Italy

Dimarco was the star of the show as Inter picked up a 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo with five different players on the scoresheet: Yann Bisseck, Marcus Thuram, Lautaro Martinez, Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique. Dimarco provided assists for three of them on the night. 

Sunday’s game means that Dimarco is now up to 11 assists in Serie A in 2025-26. Before the weekend, no defender had ever recorded more than nine assists after the same number of matches in the Italian top flight according to Opta records. 

MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 11: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 11: Federico Dimarco of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Dimarco is also closing in on the all-time Serie A record for the most assists within a single season. That title is currently held by Papu Gomez, who came up with 16 assists for his Atalanta teammates during the 2019-20 season. 

What’s more impressive about Dimarco’s tally is that he has only featured in 22 of the 24 Serie A matches that Inter have played this season. He also has five league goals to his name, plus 11 assists. That totals 16 goal involvements from 22 league appearances from wing-back.

Other sources with looser definitions of what an assist is claim that Dimarco is already up to 13 for the season, rather than 11.

Dimarco also has four assists from six World Cup qualifying appearances with the Italy national team this season as well.

Chivu’s reaction to second Inter corner kick goal: Like ‘a penalty’

Inter were so deadly from corner kicks against Sassuolo that Cristian Chivu told his staff members: ‘It’s like a penalty.’

Inter secured a convincing 5-0 win over Sassuolo on Sunday, scoring the opening two goals from corner kicks taken by Federico Dimarco.

How Chivu reacted to Inter’s corner kick goals

MONZA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MONZA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Italian has already provided nine assists in Serie A this season.

As reported by Sky Sport Italia (via FcInter1908), when Inter scored their second goal with their second corner kick, everyone celebrated with Inter’s set-piece coach Angelo Palombo, a former Inter and Sampdoria midfielder.

The Nerazzurri boss, Cristian Chivu, was so impressed with the outcome that he jokingly told his staff members: “That’s not a corner kick, it’s a penalty kick.”

Inter have the best attack in Serie A

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Inter have the best attack in Serie A with 57 goals, including 13 scored from corner kicks, in 24 games.

They are the table leaders with an eight-point lead over their city rivals Milan, who sit second, but the Rossoneri have a game in hand, to be played against Como at San Siro on February 18.

McKennie thrives under Spalletti: leading Serie A midfielders in goals

Weston McKennie has scored seven goals since Juventus appointed Luciano Spalletti at the end of October, resulting in the highest-scoring Serie A midfielder across all competitions.

USMNT international McKennie has proved to be a real added value for Juventus over the last three months.

Seven McKennie goals under Spalletti

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

As reported by Opta on X social media, the American is the Serie A midfielder with the most goals scored across all competitions since the end of October. McKennie has netted seven times for Juventus under Spalletti.

McKennie had only provided one assist in 10 appearances under Luciano Spalletti’s predecessor, Igor Tudor, in the first part of 2025-26, making five appearances as a starter.

McKennie’s Juventus future remains uncertain as his contract expires in June 2026.

McKennie contributed to 11 Juventus goals under Spalletti

TURIN, ITALY - JANUARY 12: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Cremonese at Allianz Stadium on January 12, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 12: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC celebrates a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Cremonese at Allianz Stadium on January 12, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Recent reports in Italy, however, suggest that the two parties are open to reaching an agreement over a new deal, particularly after McKennie’s impressive performances under the new Juventus coach.

McKennie has also provided four assists under Spalletti, contributing to 11 goals in 22 appearances with the Tuscan in charge.

Juan Jesus: No improvement with VAR, Serie A legends would ‘play a game and miss the next’

Napoli defender Juan Jesus feels VAR is creating more confusion than before, so it ‘becomes hard for everyone to remain passionate about football.’

Napoli defender Juan Jesus has strongly criticised the recent use of VAR in Serie A.

Juan Jesus: ‘We’ve taken a step backwards’ with VAR

MILAN, ITALY - OCTOBER 19: Referee Daniele Chiffi cancels a goal for Udinese Calcio after consulting the VAR during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 19, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 19: Referee Daniele Chiffi cancels a goal for Udinese Calcio after consulting the VAR during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on October 19, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

During an interview with Sport Mediaset on the eve of a Coppa Italia match against Como, the Brazilian said: “I’ve lived through two different eras, like De Rossi. I’ve spent 15 years in Italy, even when there was a referee behind the goal line. If there are tools to help referees make fewer mistakes, that’s great, but from what I see, there’s a debate about everything: penalties, free kicks, yellow or red cards. We know the referee is a human being. Today, I don’t see any improvement in anything. There’s nothing but controversy, with us and with any other team. I think we’ve taken a step backwards instead of forward.”

Napoli secured a 3-2 win over De Rossi’s Genoa thanks to a late penalty kick earned by Antonio Vergara.

De Rossi was highly critical of the decision, saying: “The football that I played in no longer exists.”

Juan Jesus seemed to agree with his former Roma teammate: “There’s a bit of confusion. If there’s a line, you follow it. Otherwise, you leave things as they were before,” said the Napoli defender.

“There has to be room for a human being to make mistakes, whether it’s the referee or the linesman. I remember my handball against Lecce. I couldn’t do anything. My arm was tucked in; there was no opponent behind me. On the freeze-frame, they saw that I touched it. The same goes for a stamp. Football is played with your feet, not with your hands. If every time there’s a contact on the attacker’s foot, even in midfield, it should always be a foul. If it turns into the kind of confusion we’ve been seeing lately, unfortunately, it becomes hard for everyone to remain passionate about football.

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (left), greets Juan Jesus of Napoli prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (left), greets Juan Jesus of Napoli prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“I heard what De Rossi said, and we are sorry. Maybe players will start training to hit the ball onto an opponent’s hand to win a penalty, or go to look for contact inside the box. It becomes a bad advert for the game.”

Juan Jesus has played for Inter, Roma and Napoli in Serie A. He arrived in Italy from Internacional in 2012, joining Inter, where he spent the following four seasons.

The experienced Brazilian centre-back has crossed paths with some legendary Serie A defenders over the last 15 years.

“I played in an era with defenders like Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci. I had the pleasure to play alongside Walter Samuel, Cristian Chivu and Lucio,” he concluded.

“They were all physical defenders who enjoyed contact. If they played today, they’d play one match and miss the next.”

How to buy Scotland tickets for 2026 World Cup

There will surely be vast numbers of fans looking for Scotland World Cup tickets, so we’ve put together this handy guide for how to buy Scotland World Cup tickets for the summer 2026 tournament in North America.

BUY SCOTLAND TICKETS FOR 2026 WORLD CUP

It’s the first time since all the way back in 1998 that Scotland have qualified for the World Cup, so this truly could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a lot of fans to see their team play live at this level.

After a thrilling qualifying campaign, Scotland are now preparing for what could be a memorable summer as they hope to make the most of this chance to make history for themselves, with big names like Scott McTominay and Andrew Robertson sure to be particularly keen to show that they deserve to be at this level.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JUNE 06: Scott McTominay of Scotland looks dejected as he is substituted during the international friendly match between Scotland and Iceland at Hampden Park on June 06, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JUNE 06: Scott McTominay of Scotland looks dejected as he is substituted during the international friendly match between Scotland and Iceland at Hampden Park on June 06, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images)

How to buy Scotland World Cup tickets

Scotland World Cup tickets will surely be selling fast as fans head to the official link to find out more information about how to buy them here.

However, we’d also highly recommend trying an alternative and following our link here to give yourself a better chance of an affordable and reliable route to Scotland’s games.

BUY SCOTLAND TICKETS FOR 2026 WORLD CUP

Who are Scotland playing in the group stage?

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JUNE 6: Lennon Miller of Scotland during the international friendly match between Scotland and Iceland at Hampden Park on June 6, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images)
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – JUNE 6: Lennon Miller of Scotland during the international friendly match between Scotland and Iceland at Hampden Park on June 6, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Steve Welsh/Getty Images)

Scotland have been drawn in Group C alongside Brazil, Morocco and Haiti – not a bad way to return to the World Cup after 28 years!

The game against Brazil will be particularly intriguing to follow, with Scotland likely to relish their tag as underdogs against the five-time winners of this prestigious competition.

Meanwhile, Steve Clarke’s side will surely fancy themselves against Morocco and Haiti, even if they can obviously take no opponent for granted.

Scotland had a strong qualifying campaign, though, including beating Denmark 4-2 in their final game to clinch their World Cup place, so there’s no reason for them to fear Morocco and Haiti and possibly aim to get through this group.

BUY SCOTLAND TICKETS FOR 2026 WORLD CUP

How Scotland could line up at the World Cup

Clarke has a decent list of options for his Scotland World Cup squad, but overall it’s probably fair likely we’ll see mostly familiar faces making his first XI.

McTominay has shone for Napoli so seems like one of the first names on the team sheet for his country these days, while Liverpool left-back Robertson is another who will surely have a key role.

Another Napoli player, Billy Gilmour, also seems like a decent bet to start, as does Aston Villa captain John McGinn, while goalkeeper Craig Gordon may be 43 years of age but is still going strong and surely deserves to start.

Scotland predicted line up: Gordon; Hickey, Robertson, Hanley, McKenna; McGinn, Gilmour, McTominay; Adams, Doak, Dykes

Experts believes Juventus wrongly denied penalty in 2-2 Lazio draw: ‘Negligent’

Experts believe that Juventus were wrongly denied a penalty during the first half of their eventual 2-2 draw against Lazio in Serie A on Sunday evening. 

Should Juventus have been awarded a penalty against Lazio?

The Bianconeri had to fight back through goals from Weston McKennie and Pierre Kalulu, the latter with 15 seconds of the game remaining, to claim a 2-2 draw after falling behind to goals from Pedro and Gustav Isaksen on Sunday evening. 

During the first half, however, with the scores still at 0-0, Teun Koopmeiners found the back of the net from the edge of the area, but saw his effort ruled out as Khephren Thuram was obstructing the goalkeeper’s view in an offside position.

In the build-up to that incident, though, Juan Cabal went to ground on his way into the area under the clumsy challenge of Lazio defender Mario Gila. He stayed on the deck for the entirety of the following play.  

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08:Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Cabal of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08:Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Cabal of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

A penalty was not awarded in real time, and that decision was upheld after a lengthy VAR check that resulted in Koopmeiners’s goal being ruled out. 

However, experts believe that this was the wrong call and that Juventus should have been awarded a spot-kick for Gila’s foul on Cabal. 

“This is a negligent intervention,” said refereeing expert Luca Marelli on DAZN after full-time. 

“It doesn’t matter that he’s already offloaded the ball, what matters is whether the intervention was regular or irregular. Here, Gila comes in negligently on Cabal, and in my opinion, this is a penalty kick.” 

Milan expecting to raise €70m by selling six loanees

Monday’s reports claim that the sales of the players that Milan currently have out on loan in 2025-26 could be worth around €70m. Here is a look at the players that the Rossoneri could shift to help with their summer spending in a few months’ time. 

Which players could Milan sell to raise €70m?

It has recently been confirmed that Alex Jimenez will join Premier League side AFC Bournemouth on a permanent transfer after spending the 2025-26 season on loan on the English south coast. 

The Spaniard has triggered the obligation to buy clause in his Bournemouth contract, which means that the Cherries are obliged to pay Milan a fee of €19.5m plus over €5m in potential bonuses. Milan will not receive all of this fee, though, as Jimenez’s former club, Real Madrid, are entitled to a 50% sell-on clause. 

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 24: Alex Jimenez of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Liverpool at Vitality Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – JANUARY 24: Alex Jimenez of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Liverpool at Vitality Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Alvaro Morata’s loan deal to Como also includes a conditional obligation to buy, which, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri expect to be triggered. The sale of the Spaniard will reportedly be worth around €15m for Milan. 

Samuel Chukwueze is currently on loan with an option to buy at Premier League side Fulham, and has impressed during his short time in West London so far. If the Cottagers were to make his move permanent, Milan would bring in another €24m. 

Lorenzo Colombo is also likely to leave San Siro permanently this summer. He is on loan with Genoa in a deal that includes a conditional obligation to buy for around €10m. In order for his move to be made permanent, Colombo needs at least five Serie A goals, at least 22 appearances and to avoid relegation. He already has six goals from 24 appearances. 

GENOA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 7: Lorenzo Colombo of Genoa celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
GENOA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 7: Lorenzo Colombo of Genoa celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on February 7, 2026 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Milan and Bologna have already agreed terms for Tommaso Pobega’s permanent transfer over the summer, which will reportedly be worth around €7m. 

Filippo Terracciano will also join Cremonese in a permanent deal should they avoid relegation to Serie B at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. That will bring in another €3.5m. 

CREMONA, ITALY - JANUARY 19: Warren Bondo of US Cremonese and Antoine Bernede of Hellas Verona FC fight for the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
CREMONA, ITALY – JANUARY 19: Warren Bondo of US Cremonese and Antoine Bernede of Hellas Verona FC fight for the ball during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

If all of these transfers are confirmed, Milan would raise over €70m in fees. That does not include the likes of Ismael Bennacer, Yunus Musah and Warren Bondo, who also have option to buy clauses in their loan contracts that are less likely to be activated.

Reactions to Donnarumma’s save vs. Liverpool: ‘Best in the world,’ says Haaland

Gianluigi Donnarumma has made headlines thanks to a fantastic late save that inspired Manchester City’s 2-1 away win against Liverpool: ‘It shows why he’s the best in the world,’ said Erling Haaland.

Reactions to Donnarumma’s massive save vs. Liverpool

BERGAMO, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 05: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)

Donnarumma’s big save against Liverpool on Sunday sparked plenty of reactions, including the one from his Manchester City teammate Haaland.

“Look at Gigio with an incredible save from Mac Allister,” the Norway international said at full-time.

“For me, it was out of this world. It shows why he’s the best in the world.”

🇮🇹 This crucial save from Gigi Donnarumma (26) against Liverpool… 👏

Guardiola’s reaction says it all. 😅 pic.twitter.com/NsL6y3q100

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) February 9, 2026

Donnarumma has kept 12 clean sheets in 29 games with Manchester City this season, conceding 27 goals.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates his team's second goal scored by teammate Jeremy Doku (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates his team’s second goal scored by teammate Jeremy Doku (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

The Italy captain was also praised by English football legend Gary Neville, who argued that thanks to Gigio, Guardiola and Haaland, City can aim for the Premier League title.

“If Man City are going to win the league, they’re going to need something really special,” Neville said on The Gary Neville Podcast.

“For once, [they’re] not the best team. Arsenal are the best team and they have got the best squad. Arsenal are playing the best football, they’re the most consistent and they’re the most solid.

“But what you can never do is write off Pep Guardiola, and the likes of Donnarumma and Haaland, because they’ve got it in them.”

Donnarumma joined Manchester City last summer after winning a treble with PSG in 2025-26.

MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 16: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 16: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy warms up prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The 26-year-old didn’t only leave Paris as a Champions League winner, but also as a four-time French champion.

Donnarumma was only 17 when he made his senior Italy debut in 2016, replacing Gigi Buffon in a friendly against France.

He has now collected 79 appearances with the Azzurri and won the Euros in 2021.

Guardiola couldn’t believe Donnarumma pulled off that save in the 99th minute against Liverpool pic.twitter.com/IsgrsR0ENz

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 9, 2026

Gianluigi Donnarumma. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/i05ex1Hfr3

— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 8, 2026

Pep Guardiola enjoyed Gianluigi Donnarumma’s 98th minute save vs. Liverpool so much he had to imitate it 😂🧤 pic.twitter.com/OUkbZpPPvx

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) February 9, 2026

Donnarumma, you reflex monster. I love you, man.pic.twitter.com/3wdhKMfv3l

— Geronimo Morgans (@GeronimoMorgans) February 8, 2026

Donnarumma! you can’t be real 😭#LIVMCI | @ManCity pic.twitter.com/PUYAY6YEZn

— Premier League India (@PLforIndia) February 8, 2026

Stop that Donnarumma. pic.twitter.com/Puy6TL9O3C

— Stop That Football (@stopthatfooty) February 8, 2026

Donnarumma, a game changer 🔥 pic.twitter.com/bVbO38LtFy

— Real Talk Manchester City (@RealTalkMCFC) February 8, 2026

Albertini: Two Italy players ‘hid behind’ bench to avoid taking penalty in 1994 World Cup Final

Ex-Italy and Milan midfielder Demetrio Albertini says two Azzurri, playing for Inter and Milan, ‘hid behind the bench’ to avoid taking a penalty kick in the 1994 World Cup Final against Brazil.

Milan legend Albertini revealed that two of his Italy teammates were unwilling to step up for a penalty in the shootout of the 1994 World Cup Final against Brazil, which the Azzurri went on to lose.

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES: Brazilian players run to join their teammates as Italian midfielder Roberto Baggio bows his head after he missed his penalty kick giving Brazil a 3-2 victory in the shoot-out session (0-0 after extra time) at the end of the World Cup final, 17 July 1994 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Brazil won its fourth World Cup title after 1958, 1962 and 1970. AFP PHOTO/OMAR TORRES (Photo credit should read OMAR TORRES/AFP via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES: Brazilian players run to join their teammates as Italian midfielder Roberto Baggio bows his head after he missed his penalty kick giving Brazil a 3-2 victory in the shoot-out session (0-0 after extra time) at the end of the World Cup final, 17 July 1994 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Brazil won its fourth World Cup title after 1958, 1962 and 1970. AFP PHOTO/OMAR TORRES (Photo credit should read OMAR TORRES/AFP via Getty Images)

“I was 22 and had my whole career ahead of me. I had the recklessmess and, carefree attitude of the youngest in the group. Sacchi asked me if I felt up to taking a penalty, and I went without thinking,” Albertini told Gazzetta, via Calciomercato.com.

“While there were those who hid behind the bench just to avoid taking one. I’ll never say their names, but one played for Milan and the other for Inter.”

Nicola Berti was the only Inter player in that team, while Milan had two, Paolo Maldini and Roberto Donadoni. The latter had already missed a penalty in a World Cup semifinal defeat against Argentina four years earlier, during Italia 90.

FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 20: FIGC Technical Sector President Demetrio Albertini attends the Italian Football Federation ‘Panchina D’Oro’ Awards Ceremony at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on February 20, 2023 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Another painful moment in Albertini’s career came less than ten years later, also with the Azzurri: “The worst moment was losing the Euro 2000 Final against France with the golden goal. It really hurt to see the last real chance to win something with the national team slip away like that,” he said.

A former midfielder for Milan, Barcelona, Lazio, Atalanta and Atletico Madrid, Albertini won the Serie A title five times and the Champions League three times at Milan.

Milan Dutch trio - Rijkaard, Van Basten and Gullit
9 Dec 1992: AC Milan Players Demetrio Albertini, Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard and Marco Van Basten form a wall in the European Cup match against PSV Eindhoven. AC Milan won the match 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Chris Cole/Allsport

Albertini made 79 appearances with the Italy national team, the last one in a friendly against England in 2002. The former midfielder scored three goals with the Azzurri.

 

 

Montella: Kılıçsoy made ‘incredible improvements’ for Cagliari and Turkiye

Turkiye head coach Vincenzo Montella is delighted with Semih Kılıçsoy’s recent improvement at Cagliari: ‘Fabio Pisacane will help him.’

Turkiye international Kılıçsoy has scored four goals since the end of December, becoming a regular starter at Cagliari.

Tonight, he’ll lead the Sardinians’ attack in an away game at Roma.

Montella continues to ‘follow’ Kılıçsoy’s growth

TURIN, ITALY - DECEMBER 27: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari Calcio is challenged by Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 27, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Semih Kilicsoy of Cagliari Calcio is challenged by Gvidas Gineitis of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 27, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“He was already involved in the Euros, and now we continue to follow his growth,” Montella, a former Roma striker, told Il Messaggero (via TMW).

“His impact in Serie A wasn’t easy, but he has made incredible improvements in the last two months. He needs to keep this balance to confirm himself and improve.”

A top-Serie A striker in the 90s, does Montella see any similarity between him and the Turkish striker?

DORTMUND, GERMANY - JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
DORTMUND, GERMANY – JUNE 18: Vincenzo Montella, Head Coach of Turkiye, gestures during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Turkiye and Georgia at Football Stadium Dortmund on June 18, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

“We are a bit different. He’s very technical, and he has a goal-scoring instinct,” Montella replied.

“He must increase his consistency in the game to remain at certain levels, but I’ve seen him focused and motivated. I really hope he continues on this way. Cagliari and Pisacane will help him in this journey. I have an excellent relationship with Fabio. We just spoke about Semih.”

Italy players in Premier League: Donnarumma heroics, another Calafiori clean sheet

Gianluigi Donnarumma made a heroic last-gasp save for Manchester City in their Premier League victory over Liverpool, Riccardo Calafiori helped Arsenal to another clean sheet against Sunderland, but it was a weekend to forget for Italy pair Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie at Tottenham. 

Here is how the jItaly internationals in the Premier League got on this weekend. 

Donnarumma and Calafiori victories 

Italy no.1 Donnarumma played a crucial role as Manchester City claimed an important 2-1 victory away against Arne Slot’s Liverpool on Sunday evening. The highlight of his performance was his late save to deny Alexis Mac Allister’s improvised volley from hitting the top corner of the net. 

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 08: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Fellow Italy colleague Federico Chiesa appeared off the bench in the final stages of the Liverpool 1-2 Manchester City match. Giovanni Leoni remains out injured long term. 

Calafiori was back in the Arsenal starting line-up for the first time since his recent injury lay-off and helped the Premier League leaders on their way to a 3-0 victory against Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium. 

LEEDS, ENGLAND - JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – JANUARY 31: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Arsenal at Elland Road on January 31, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

That was the 11th Premier League clean sheet that Calafiori has been involved in this season. He has featured in the league on 18 occasions so far in 2025-26. 

Lucca scores on Forest debut 

Lorenzo Lucca was the only Italy international who moved to the Premier League during the January transfer window, joining Nottingham Forest on loan with an option to buy from Napoli after falling down the pecking order under Antonio Conte in the early stages of 2025-26. 

LEEDS, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca of Nottingham Forest scores his team's first goal during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca of Nottingham Forest scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

He was given his first Premier League appearance of the season off the bench in Nottingham Forest’s eventual 3-1 loss against Leeds United. It took him just 32 minutes to find the back of the net on his first outing in the English top flight. 

How did the other Italy internationals get on this weekend? 

It is turning out to be a memorable season for Michael Kayode and his Brentford colleagues. Many tipped the Bees for relegation after the departure of head coach Thomas Frank in the summer, but they are currently on course to record their strongest ever finish in the Premier League, currently sitting in seventh place after a 3-2 win away against Newcastle United. 

Sandro Tonali, who is beginning to attract more and more transfer interest, was a starter in the Newcastle side that lost 3-2 to Brentford. 

2026 has not been kind to Vicario and Udogie at Tottenham. Spurs are without a Premier League win in 2026, a run that is now up to seven matches after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat against Manchester United. 

Wilfried Gnonto was an unused substitute for Leeds, who beat Lucca’s Nottingham Forest 3–1. 

Video: Guardiola’s three-word touchline reaction to Donnarumma’s big save vs. Liverpool

Pep Guardiola was left in awe by a stunning late save from Gigio Donnarumma, which helped Manchester City secure a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Italy international Donnarumma massively contributed to Manchester City’s away win at Liverpool on Sunday, producing a sensational last-minute save.

Gigio Donnarumma’s fantastic save vs. Liverpool

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 08: Manchester City's Gianluigi Donnarumma saves from Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Manchester City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma saves from Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City at Anfield on February 08, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola from the Anfield touchline instantly reacted to Donnarumma’s stop as the Spaniard put his hands on his head in disbelief and looked at his staff, saying: ‘What a save!’

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates after Erling Haaland (not pictured) scored their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 14: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City celebrates after Erling Haaland (not pictured) scored their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Italy captain Donnarumma has kept 12 clean sheets in 29 Manchester City appearances this season, conceding 27 goals.

Bergomi identifies two key Juventus players: ‘Can’t do without’

Former Inter defender Beppe Bergomi argues that Juventus were ‘unlucky’ in a 2-2 home draw against Lazio, but their latest match highlighted that they ‘can’t do without’ two attacking wingers.

Juventus were held to a 2-2 home draw by Lazio on Sunday, but came back from two goals down, securing one point thanks to goals from Weston McKennie and Pierre Kalulu.

Juventus ‘unlucky’ against Lazio

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Pedro of SS Lazio celebrates a goal with team mates during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Pedro of SS Lazio celebrates a goal with team mates during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

“Juventus were a bit unlucky. I looked at the stats, and the figures are amazing. In favour of Juventus,” Bergomi told Sky Sport Italia.

“The way it’s been built, I think Juventus can’t do without two wingers who dribble past opponents. They conceded some counterattacks in the second half, but the danger index was high. The goals come from there. Cross, McKennie’s goal, cross Kalulu’s goal.”

Andrea Cambiaso started the match as a right winger, but then dropped to left-back after Edon Zhegrova was introduced in the second half.

Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.
Official: Jeremie Boga joins Juventus on loan with an option to buy from OGC Nice.

Cambiaso provided the assist for McKennie, while January signing Jeremie Boga delivered the cross for Kalulu’s late leveller.

McKennie has now scored seven goals in 22 games under Luciano Spalletti.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Juventus are now three points above fifth-placed Roma, but the Giallorossi have a game in hand to be played against Cagliari tonight.

Juventus’ next match is one of the biggest of the season, away against Inter.

Inter and Italy legend Boninsegna: ‘I regret not playing’ with Lautaro Martinez

Former Inter and Italy striker Roberto Boninsegna admits he would have loved to play alongside Lautaro Martinez: ‘We would have been a terrific strike partnership.’

Lautaro Martinez scored a goal in a 5-0 win over Sassuolo on Sunday, becoming the third-highest goalscorer in Inter’s history with 171, level with Boninsegna.

“Congratulations to Lautaro Martinez. I’m an ex-striker, but mostly a big Inter fan, so I can only be happy with a season where he’s scoring consistently,” the former Italian striker told Gazzetta.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“It was predictable that he would catch me, but not so predictable that he’d do it so quickly. Better this way. After all, the team is marching towards the Scudetto, and he’s a worthy captain of this group.

“He has the character of a leader and the attitude of somebody who knows how important it is to earn the teammates’ trust through facts.”

Boninsegna scored nine goals in 22 Italy appearances, including one in a legendary World Cup semifinal against Germany in 1970.

Only Giuseppe Meazza with 284 and Alessandro Altobelli with 209 have scored more goals than Boninsegna and Lautaro at Inter.

Boninsegna: Lautaro and I, a ‘terrific strike partnership’

MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“I can say that it’s a pleasure to sit alongside him in this prestigious ranking, but I regret not playing with him, as we would have been a terrific strike partnership,” said Boninsegna.

“I would have placed myself in the middle of the box, and he’d run around to link up. I would have created space for him so he could quickly pounce on the ball in the danger zone, as he loves doing. We would have posed a big concern to the opposing defenders.”

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Inter are the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point lead over city rivals Milan, who have a game in hand.

“We are strong in the Champions League, and we’ll continue to prove it against Milan and Juventus,” Bonimba concluded.

“The Champions League is different because the balance of power inevitably changes. But I believe we can go fairly ahead. Now there’s an ideal atmosphere in the dressing room to face the toughest encounters. I’m confident.”

Video: Vlahovic’s reaction to Kalulu’s late Juventus equaliser

Dusan Vlahovic followed the final minutes of Juventus’ 2-2 draw against Lazio from the Allianz Stadium touchline and energetically celebrated Pierre Kalulu’s late leveller.

Juventus were held to a 2-2 home draw by Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio.

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Kalulu of Juventis celebrates a second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Kalulu of Juventus celebrates a second goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

However, the Bianconeri can still be happy with the result, as they recovered from a two-goal deficit, scoring the equaliser in the stoppage time thanks to a goal from Kalulu.

Bianconeri star Vlahovic has been out of action since December and is not expected to make his return until next month.

Vlahovic’s reaction to Kalulu’s goal

FLORENCE, ITALY - NOVEMBER 22: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

Even if the Serbian seems destined to leave the Allianz Stadium as a free agent in June, he’s still very much involved in the team, as his reaction to Kalulu’s goal highlighted.

🎥 Vlahovic’s reaction to Kalulu’s goal. pic.twitter.com/E862NOiEfk

— JuveFC (@juvefcdotcom) February 8, 2026

Serie A: Atalanta vs. Cremonese – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV

Gianluca Scamacca, Giacomo Raspadori and Charles De Ketelaere are expected to start in the Atalanta attack in a home Serie A match against regional rivals Cremonese.

It kicks off at 18:30 CET (17:30 GMT) at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo.

The Nerazzurri are in good mood, having recently eliminated Juventus from the Coppa Italia, but they are also climbing the Serie A table, being undefeated in the last five matches with three wins and two draws.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team's first goal from a penalty, after Mattia Perin of Juventus (not pictured) failed to make a save, during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta celebrates scoring his team’s first goal from a penalty, after Mattia Perin of Juventus (not pictured) failed to make a save, during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Cremonese, on the other hand, are still five points above the relegation zone, but they haven’t won since December 7 and haven’t scored in the last four league games.

Atalanta must cope without the suspended Honest Ahanor and Marten De Roon, while David Okereke, Warrne Bondo, Michele Collocolo, Jari Vandeputte, Matteo Bianchetti and Mikayil Faye are injured for Cremonese.

CREMONA, ITALY - JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
CREMONA, ITALY – JANUARY 19: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on January 19, 2026 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

According to Tuttosport and Gazzetta, Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino will field Scamacca, De Ketelaere and Raspadori in attack, while Cremonese’s Davide Nicola will reply with Jamie Vardy and Federico Bonazzoli, but Antonio Sanabria and January signing Milan Djuric are available on the bench.

Atalanta vs. Cremonese – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. You can also follow a live commentary on Football Italia’s liveblog.

Atalanta vs. Cremonese – probable line-ups

Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, Ederson, Pasalic, Zalewski; De Ketelaere, Raspadori; Scamacca.

Cremonese (3-5-2): Audero; Terracciano, Baschirotto, Luperto; Barbieri, Thorsby, Grassi, Maleh, Pezzella; Bonazzoli, Vardy.

Serie A: Roma vs. Cagliari – probable line-ups, where to watch on TV

Bryan Zaragoza and Lorenzo Pellegrini compete for a starting spot in the Roma XI for a home Serie A match against Cagliari tonight.

It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

A win would allow the Giallorossi to catch Juventus in fourth place after the Bianconeri’s 2-2 home draw against Lazio on Sunday.

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini must cope with an injury crisis that leaves him short of options in attack and midfield for this fixture.

Manu Konè, Artem Dovbyk, Stephan El Shaarawy, Robinio Vaz, Paulo Dybala, Evan Ferguson and Mario Hermoso have not been called up due to physical issues.

According to Sky and Gazzetta, January signing Zaragoza competes with Roma veteran Pellegrini for a starting spot as an attacking midfielder, behind the sole striker Donyell Malen.

Cagliari also have a few players out of action as Andrea Belotti, Michael Folorunsho, Alessandro Deiola, Yerry Mina and Gennaro Borrelli are unavailable.

The Sardinians have won three games in a row and will look to Semih Kılıçsoy and Sebastiano Esposito in attack.

Roma vs. Cagliari – where to watch on TV

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

Roma vs. Cagliari – probable line-ups

Roma (3-4-2-1): Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Ghilardi; Celik, El Aynaoui, Cristante, Wesley; Soulè, Pellegrini; Malen.

Cagliari (4-3-3): Caprile; Ze Pedro, Dossena, Rodriguez, Obert; Adopo, Gaetano, Mazzitelli; Palestra, Kilicsoy, Esposito.

Today’s Papers – Unplayable Inter, McTominay’s relief, Juventus’ heart and rage

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Inter’s boom

Half team scores, super Dimarco: three assists and one clearance. Lautaro reaches Boninsegna among the great Nerazzurri goal scorers. Chivu goes +8 on Milan (who have a game in hand) and +9 from Napoli.

Juve stop

McKennie and Kalulu at ’96 complete the comeback over Lazio. Roma might catch them today.

Napoli relief, McTominay will only miss Como

Bologna collapse against Parma. Lecce’s coup for survival.

Corriere dello Sport

Unplayable

Inter run away: +8

Lautaro like the legend Bonimba. Juve save themselves

171st goal for the Argentine. Stunning Dimarco: 3 assists. Goals from Bisseck, Thuram, Akanji and Luis Henrique. On Saturday, a game against Lucio, who avoided defeat at minute 96 thanks to Kalulu.

Gasp: no more divers, we must react

McTominay, love for Napoli.

Tuttosport

Juve heart and rage

From 0-2 to 2-2 at ’96 against Lazio.

Pedro and Isaksen score. McKennie initiates the comeback and Kalulu completes it in the stoppages (Boga’s assist), but it doesn’t cancel the frustration for the result nor the disappointment for a penalty not given on Cabal on 0-0. Napoli go +3 and Roma can catch the Bianconeri in fourth.

Dimarco makes everyone score

Bisseck, Thuram, Lautaro, Akanji and Luis Henrique sign the +8. The captain equals Boninsegna: 171 goals with the Nerazzurri.

The defender saved Baroni in Florence and would like to extend, but not with a pay cut.

Toro-Maripan, tension on the renewal.

Spalletti rant about referees ends with kiss for interviewer

Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti went on a lengthy rant demanding referees be made professional, which culminated in him kissing the interviewer to prove a point. ‘Contact is not impact.’

The Bianconeri boss was fired up after the chaotic 2-2 draw with Lazio, which saw his team fight back from 2-0 down with Pedro and Gustav Isaksen goals, to equalise through Weston McKennie and Pierre Kalulu headers.

There was some controversy when Teun Koopmeiners had a goal disallowed for Khephren Thuram’s offside position at 0-0, but there was also a potential Mario Gila foul on Juan Cabal in the build-up to that effort, which DAZN Italia refereeing analyst Luca Marelli said should’ve been a penalty.

This sparked a lengthy Spalletti rant that spiralled somewhat out of control.

Spalletti wants reform for referees

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“The referee can interpret it the way he wants, because the defender is imprudent when going into that sliding tackle, so he takes a risk. I am not here to say if it is a penalty or not. He could’ve run back onto the ball, but I would take a wider view,” Spalletti noted.

“Everyone now goes to protest about the rules, but there is always an interpretation. The pressure of a step on foot, handball that nobody sees in the stadium but they zoom in with the camera, it is all open to interpretation. You cannot generalise that every contact is a penalty.”

He turned back to an incident in the game against Atalanta when a penalty was awarded for handball that even Ederson making the cross hadn’t noticed.

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)
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)

“I never talked about referees when decisions went against me or in favour. In the game against Atalanta the VAR called the referee to view the handball a minute and a half later, when nobody including Raffaele Palladino who was right next to me on the touchline, had any idea what this was even for.

“The rules are too rigid right now, it is the rigidity that I find to be the problem. If nobody even realises it hit a hand, who is damaged by that? The analysts keep saying ‘there was contact,’ but that doesn’t mean anything, does it? May I kiss you, here, this is contact,” said Spalletti when giving the female interviewer a peck on the cheek.

“It’s about context, contact is not the same thing as impact. There will always be difficulty if there are rules where every touch of the hand is a penalty, every step on foot is a penalty. This is what VAR is for, you can evaluate the context in its totality.

“If we stick to the rules, then that is definitely a penalty, because Gila goes into a sliding tackle and takes responsibility for that gesture when he doesn’t get the ball.”

CAGLIARI, ITALY - JANUARY 17: Luciano Spalletti coach of Juventus reacts during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Sant'Elia on January 17, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
CAGLIARI, ITALY – JANUARY 17: Luciano Spalletti coach of Juventus reacts during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Juventus FC at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 17, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Spalletti believes he has the solution to help referees focus on the job at hand, which is to make it a job.

“The referee is the only one out of 23 on the pitch who is not a professional. That should be changed, in my view, as they are too important for the sport.

“When he gets home at night, he has to think about other things, whether or not to keep doing this, balancing his other work. That’s not right when you consider how important referees are in this game. I am confident about this, he has to be professional.”

Spalletti: ‘Juventus must relish difficult moments and test themselves’

Luciano Spalletti urges Juventus to ‘live within pressure, relish testing yourself to see if you can handle difficult situations’ after their fightback for a 2-2 draw with Lazio.

The Bianconeri were coming off a 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final defeat to Atalanta midweek where they had more possession and chances, so were getting a sense of déjà vu here when trailing 2-0 to Pedro and Gustav Isaksen goals against the run of play.

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08:  Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy.  (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

However, Weston McKennie’s header and a last-gasp Pierre Kalulu finish from close range managed to claw their way back for a 2-2 draw with Lazio.

There were 33 shots from the Old Lady compared to just eight for Lazio, but curiously all season in Serie A they are also the team with the most errors leading to conceded goals.

Spalletti defends Juventus players after errors

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Juventus Head coach Luciano Spalletti and SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus Head coach Luciano Spalletti and SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“It is probably the fault of the demands we put upon these players,” Spalletti told DAZN Italia.

“In this period, I asked them to immediately play every ball that they win back, not to kick it away, so we must try to play our way out under pressure, and add more quality to our football.

“When you make that many requests, it means anticipating dangerous situations, seeing both the positive and negative potential of any scenario at the same time.

“Mistakes can happen, Locatelli has been one of our best players this season, so losing the ball once doesn’t ruin anything. Even after that, there was the way we defended, how we closed down the shot, the bad luck of the deflection. That’s football.

“What we must build on is the reaction of the team, the performance overall. When the tempo steps up and we are fighting back from two goals down, we mustn’t turn that up to the degree it’s frenetic. We need to speed things up, but not be chaotic, whereas again today we were a bit too frenetic in situations we could’ve developed better.

“Speeding up the tempo does not mean spilling over into chaos.”

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juventus FC head coach Luciano Spalletti looks on during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Spalletti outlined his vision of the game further, insisting Juventus must learn to enjoy it when the going gets tough.

“We have to live within pressure, that is the joy of football, when you have to overturn a 2-0 result at the start of the second half, when it wasn’t what we had planned at all. That is when you test yourself and see if you can handle the tension at the top level, that is what we must relish, seeing if we deserve to be at this level or not.

“Character means when everything is going wrong and you need the clear head to make choices. That’s what makes the difference. This team overturned a very difficult situation, put in a great performance, so we go forward feeling reassured.”

There was an odd incident during the half-time break, as Francisco Conceicao was warming up and ready to come on when he felt a twinge, so instead Edon Zhegrova had to rush his preparations and come on.

Sarri: ‘Lazio have some regret, but a point away to Juventus is always positive’

Maurizio Sarri admits he is torn between feeling regret at Lazio’s 2-2 draw with Juventus and noting ‘a point is always a positive result’ in Turin.

The Aquile had come to Turin as the underdogs, as they were missing Mattia Zaccagni, Manuel Lazzari, Samuel Gigot and suspended Luca Pellegrini, while Alessio Romagnoli was only on the bench after a failed transfer to Al-Sadd.

Nonetheless, they were leading 2-0 with goals from Pedro and Gustav Isaksen, also wasting the chances to further extend their advantage with Tijjani Noslin.

Weston McKennie and Pierre Kalulu headers got Juventus back on track for a last-gasp 2-2 draw.

Sarri torn between Lazio moods after 2-2 thriller

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“There was a long way to go when we scored the second goal, so we clearly didn’t feel that it was done, as Juventus were attacking with vigour,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.

“If we have any regrets, it that in the last 10 minutes, we had two chances to make it 3-1 and didn’t take them. There was always the evident feeling Juventus could equalise, so the regret is that we wasted those opportunities, rather than conceding at the end.”

Check the Football Italia Player Ratings for Juventus 2-2 Lazio

Juventus had 33 shots on goal to just eight from Lazio, but the coach admits he was not expecting much.

“When you come away from this stadium with a point, that is always a positive result,” continued Sarri.

“Clearly, there are some small regrets, but more than anything else I bring home the knowledge these lads are hard to destroy. They reacted to everything, they never let their heads drop when faced with any difficulty, so that is reassuring.”

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Manuel Locatelli Juventus FC at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Manuel Locatelli Juventus FC at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Lazio were also forced to make more changes during the second half, as Toma Basic, Mario Gila and Oliver Provstgaard all had physical problems.

Nuno Tavares also seemed to be on the verge of an exit, but he remained and was in the starting XI this evening.

The push for Romagnoli and Tavares to leave also contributed to the tension between Lazio fans and President Claudio Lotito, having boycotted the most recent home match.

“I understand that seeing us from the outside, you might get a different idea, but within the squad there is a positive mood. The lads work with such enthusiasm and passion,” insisted Sarri.

“Naturally, playing at an empty Stadio Olimpico is a horrible feeling and we’d prefer for certain diatribes between the owners of the club and the Lazio fans to end now, because we badly need our supporters around us.”

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: SS Lazio President Claudio Lotito prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: SS Lazio President Claudio Lotito prior the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Former Juventus winger Douglas Costa was in the DAZN Italia studio, having returned to Italy to play for Chievo Verona.

“He was world class, and unfortunately for many reasons, including his and those of us who coached him, he never pulled out that potential. He really had what it took to be one of the best in the world.”

Koopmeiners: ‘Juventus enjoy attacking, but must defend better’ after thrilling 2-2

Teun Koopmeiners admits Juventus feel ‘angry’ more than relieved after a 2-2 draw with Lazio, because while they enjoy the attacking approach, it is leaving them unbalanced.

It was a dramatic evening in Turin, as the Aquile had surged into a surprising 2-0 lead with goals from Pedro and Gustav Isaksen.

However, the headers from Weston McKennie and Pierre Kalulu at the 96th minute allowed Juve to claw their way back to a 2-2 draw.

Despite getting it back from 2-0 down, Juve players seemed more irritated than celebratory at the final whistle.

Koopmeiners and Juventus must find balance

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: A general view during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: A general view during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

“We are angry, because we had so many chances to score, but were lacking something in the final ball, we weren’t precise enough in our finishing,” Koopmeiners told DAZN Italia.

Luciano Spalletti has a very attack-minded approach and that can leave them rather unbalanced in defence, leaking quite a few goals lately.

“We want to attack all the time, and I like that, so does Spalletti. It’s a wonderful approach for Juve and we entertain the fans, but we must do better with our preventative marking. When the opponents win back the ball, we’ve got to get back into shape quicker to avoid the counter-attacks,” confessed Koopmeiners.

“Perhaps we need more concentration, a bit more communication in the way we defend and attack. When you see today’s game, we certainly need to do better in these situations.”

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Juvenus head coach Luciano Spalletti during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Juvenus head coach Luciano Spalletti during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Juventus had 33 shots on goal to just eight this evening from Lazio.

Koopmeiners had the ball in the net when it was 0-0, but the goal was disallowed because Khephren Thuram was offside and got out of the way to let it through, so was inevitably interfering with play.

“I thought it was a great moment, we would’ve gone 1-0 up, but I didn’t see Thuram, I just tried to drill the shot through some legs, I thought they belonged to defenders and not him,” noted the Dutchman.

Player ratings: Juventus 2-2 Lazio – McKennie shining under Spalletti

Weston McKennie continues to impress under Luciano Spalletti and was among the star performers as Juventus had to fight back to claim a 2-2 draw at home against Lazio in Serie A on Sunday evening. 

Maurizio Sarri’s side went 2-0 up shortly after the start of the second half thanks to goals from PEdro and Gustav Isaksen, which were eventually cancelled out by McKennie and then Kalulu in the final minute of injury time. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Juventus 2-2 Lazio: Player ratings!

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Weston McKennie of Juventus FC scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Juventus: Di Gregorio 5; Kalulu 7, Bremer 6, Koopmeiners 6 (Kelly 6); Cambiaso 5.5 (Boga 6.5), Locatelli 5 (Miretti n/a), Thuram 5.5, Cabal 5.5 (Zhegrova 6.5); McKennie 7 (Openda n/a), Yildiz 6; David 5. 

Best Juventus player: Weston McKennie 7 – Dusted himself off after an underwhelming first-half performance and was one of the more impressive players on the pitch in the second period. No Serie A midfielder has scored more goals than him since the appointment of Luciano Spalletti. 

Coach: Luciano Spalletti – He will have been disappointed with the way in which his team fell two goals behind on home soil, but there is no questioning the mentality of this Juventus side, who fought back and eventually registered 34 shots by full-time as they looked to get themselves back into it (eight on target, 13 off target and 13 blocked). His substitutes played a big role in that second half as well, especially Jeremie Boga and Edon Zhegrova, who wasn’t originally meant to come on at half-time

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Manuel Locatelli Juventus FC at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Manuel Locatelli Juventus FC at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Lazio: Provedel 6.5; Marusic 6, Gila 6.5 (Romagnoli 5.5), Provstgaard 6 (Patric n/a), Tavares 6; Basic (Dele-Bashiru 6), Cataldi 6.5, Taylor 6; Isaksen 7(Cancellieri 6), Maldini 6, Pedro 7 (Noslin 5). 

Best Lazio player: Gustav Isaksen 7 – What a way to double the advantage for Lazio almost immediately after half-time. It was a wonderful first-time ball from Cataldi that sent him through, but the Dane still had so much work to do before finding the back of the net. An encouraging performance all-round. 

Coach: Maurizio Sarri 6.5 – There are some draws that feel like a win and some that feel like a defeat. This one is probably in the latter category for Sarri, who will be furious that his side were not able to hold on for the three points. Until the Juventus siege in the final stages, Lazio had performed well across the board and for a while, it looked like the Biancocelesti were on for a memorable victory on the road.

Serie A | Juventus 2-2 Lazio: Kalulu completes incredible comeback

Juventus clawed their way back from 2-0 down to Pedro and Gustav Isaksen goals to snatch a 2-2 draw with Lazio thanks to Weston McKennie and a last-gasp Pierre Kalulu header.

The Bianconeri had been on fine form until a surprisingly heavy 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final defeat to Atalanta on Thursday, but they had reason to celebrate, as Kenan Yildiz signed a new contract and shook off a knock to return to the starting XI, which shifted to a back four. Lazio welcomed Alessio Romagnoli and Nuno Tavares back to the fold after failed January transfers, but Luca Pellegrini was suspended, with Mattia Zaccagni, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot injured.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: A general view during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: A general view during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

The first big scoring opportunity came after a corner when Pierre Kalulu’s cross found a Gleison Bremer bullet header, forcing a flying Ivan Provedel reaction save to tip it out from under the crossbar.

There was a chaotic situation when Juan Cabal went down under a Mario Gila challenge inside the area, play continued and Teun Koopmeiners drilled in from the edge of the box. However, Khephren Thuram was offside and interfering with play, as he got out of the ball’s path to let it through.

Koopmeiners, who was playing as part of a back four, threatened again with a volley that skimmed the upright from distance.

Gustav Isaksen just failed to get on the end of a dangerous Nuno Tavares low ball flashed across from the left, while David’s free header was over from seven yards on the Kalulu cross.

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 8: Pedro of SS Lazio scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 8: Pedro of SS Lazio scores a goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

It was Lazio who took the lead in first half stoppages, as Daniel Maldini robbed Manuel Locatelli in midfield and spread it down the left for Pedro, whose angled drive took a deflection off Bremer to wrong-foot Michele Di Gregorio at the near post.

Lazio take the lead in Turin and it's Pedro rolling back the years with it

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/bBDhm6LBL9

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 8, 2026

Toma Basic went off injured, while Edon Zhegrova was introduced because Francisco Conceicao felt a knee twinge during the warm-up at half-time.

Lazio doubled their advantage within moments of the restart, as Danilo Cataldi’s long ball sent Isaksen sprinting down the right, holding off Cambiaso to blast under the bar from a tricky angle with his right foot.

Double trouble for Juventus, as Lazio make it 2! Gustav Isaksen races clear of the defence and finishes brilliantly 💥

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/h79wLxsGLa

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 8, 2026

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08:Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Cabal of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08:Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Cabal of Juventus during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at the Juventus stadium on February 08, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Provedel palmed away a Kenan Yildiz curler, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s heavy first touch ruined a great chance set up by Nuno Tavares.

Juve did get back into it when Provedel was at full stretch to parry the Zhegrova strike, but could do nothing as the move continued with Cambiaso standing up a cross for Wes McKennie’s header from six yards.

Is the comeback on? 👀

Weston McKennie rises highest in the box to pull one back for Juventus… 2-1!

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/fDo6R5m1I5

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 8, 2026

The hosts poured forward, McKennie grazing his head to another Cambiaso cross, taking it away from Bremer at the back post.

Locatelli’s daisy-cutter skimmed the far post, with Kenneth Taylor also drilling just wide on the counter-attack at the other end.

David completed a give and go with Thuram to roll across from the left beyond Provedel, but as Bremer came sliding in, Nuno Tavares made a decisive defensive block in front of the open goal.

TURIN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC is challenged during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC is challenged during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and SS Lazio at Allianz Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Mario Gila also picked up a muscular problem, allowing Romagnoli to make his comeback after that failed transfer to Al-Sadd.

Kenan Yildiz stung Provedel’s gloves with a ferocious volley on the edge of the box, and McKennie knew he was offside when deflecting a Kalulu cross into the net from point-blank range.

Lazio really should’ve added a third at the 86th minute when Nuno Tavares went on the counter and rolled across, it was laid off by Dele-Bashiru only for Tijjani Noslin to incredibly balloon over when undisturbed from 14 yards.

A Zhegrova curler flashed just wide of the far post, while Provedel fingertipped a Yildiz strike onto the side-netting.

At the 96th minute, Jeremie Boga stood up a cross from the left and found Kalulu ready to nod in the equaliser from close range.

JUVENTUS LEVEL LATE ON 🤯

From 2-0 down, to 2-2 and it's Pierre Kalulu who emphatically heads home! Some turnaround!

📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/kboDNNZs6U

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 8, 2026

It still wasn’t over, as Lois Openda’s header went wide with the last kick of the game from another Boga cross.

Juventus 2-2 Lazio

Pedro 45+1 (L), Isaksen 48 (L), McKennie 59 (J), Kalulu 96 (J)

Player statistic

1st half
    33' Kenneth Taylor
    45+2' Pedro
(Assist: Daniel Maldini)
2nd half
    47' Gustav Isaksen
(Assist: Danilo Cataldi)
Weston McKennie
(Assist: Andrea Cambiaso)
59'    
    81' Yellow card Alessio Romagnoli
Pierre Kalulu
(Assist: Jeremie Boga)
Goal 90+6'    

Match statistic

63
Possession %
37
34
Total shots
9
8
Shots on target
2
13
Shots off target
5
13
Blocked shots
2
8
Corners
1
7
Offsides
1
10
Fouls
4
Juventus
Lazio

Starting lineups

16
Goalkeeper
27
Defender
76'
3
Defender
32
Defender
46'
15
Defender
19
Midfielder
5
Midfielder
84'
8
Midfielder
77'
22
Midfielder
84'
30
Attacker
10
Attacker
94
Goalkeeper
77
Defender
34
Defender
77'
17
Defender
25
83'
Midfielder
32
Midfielder
24
Midfielder
26
Midfielder
46'
18
Attacker
65'
9
Attacker
64'

Substitutes

23
Goalkeeper
1
Goalkeeper
4
Defender
18
Midfielder
2
Defender
17
Midfielder
11
Attacker
46'
13
Attacker
76'
6
Defender
77'
21
Midfielder
84'
20
Attacker
84'
23
Defender
55
Goalkeeper
6
Midfielder
19
Attacker
21
Midfielder
Goalkeeper
20
Attacker
99
Attacker
7
Midfielder
46'
14
Attacker
64'
22
65'
13
77'
4
Defender
83'

Why Spalletti brought on Zhegrova instead of Conceicao in Juventus vs. Lazio

Luciano Spalletti opted to make a half-time substitution during the interval of Juventus’s Serie A clash against Lazio on Sunday evening, but he was forced into changing his mind at the final minute after it appeared that Francisco Conceicao would be unable to enter. 

Juventus hosted Lazio at the Allianz Arena on Sunday evening, and surprisingly fell two goals behind after strikes from Pedro and Gustav Isaksen. Weston McKennie brought one back just shy of the hour mark before a last-gasp equualiser from Pierre Kalulu with 15 seconds of injury time remaining. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Why Conceicao couldn’t come on during Juventus vs. Lazio 

VERONA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 20: Francisco Conceicao of Juventus FC celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
VERONA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Francisco Conceicao celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match against Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on September 20, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

With his team trailing 1-0 at the half-time break, Spalletti decided to make an attacking substitution. 

He took off full-back Juan Cabal and had originally intended to replace him with Portugal international Conceicao, who was seen receiving detailed instructions from the Juventus coaching staff while warming up at half-time. 

However, it soon became apparent that Conceicao had felt something in his knee while warming up, and the Juventus team decided against risking him for the second half against Lazio, which is why they decided to bring on Zhegrova for Cabal instead. 

Chivu assesses Sassuolo 0-5 Inter and upcoming Juventus test: ‘Work to be done’

Cristian Chivu insists that Inter are still ‘zero’ percent along the way to the Serie A title despite his side’s 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo on Sunday, as he believes that the Nerazzurri are just about to head into one of their most crucial runs of the 2025-26 season. 

Inter showed why they are the breakaway leaders of the Serie A table during their 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo on Sunday evening. Five different goalscorers got in on the act at the Mapei: Yann Bisseck and Marcus Thuram in the first half, Lautaro Martinez, Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique in the second. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog. 

Chivu assesses Sassuolo 0-5 Inter and upcoming Juventus test 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Luis Henrique of FC Internazionale celebrates with Federico Dimarco after scoring his team fifth goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Despite dominating for the majority of the match against Sassuolo, Inter were still threatened early on. 

“We’ve understood the moment that we’re in, we suffered from their intensity and once they got hold of the ball, they went straight at the game. We struck at the right time with that corner, then our solidity became an important factor for how we went about the game,” Chivu told DAZN after full-time. 

“This team seems more mature now, of how to accept and adapt in certain moments of the game,” he added. 

Given that his side currently sits eight points clear at the top of the table after 24 matches, Chivu was asked if there is still room for his team to improve. 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazioale celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazioale celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

He replied: “We can’t forget where we’ve come from. We can’t be afraid of anything, but we have to be aware that we can still improve. There’s no such thing as perfection. 

“It isn’t easy because there’s still a long way to go in the league and these are important phases of the season. We’re halfway through the marathon, we have to keep our maturity and be competitive.” 

Chivu was asked if this is the point in the season where we start to see more of Davide Frattesi, who was still left out of the starting line-up against Sassuolo despite the absences of Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu. 

“Frattesi, Diouf, Dimarco, the whole group works hard. We need the whole squad to maintain a certain level so that we stay competitive,” Chivu responded. 

Chivu is still unwilling to consider himself the favourite for the Serie A title this year, though. When asked what the probability of Inter winning the league title this year is, the coach replied: “Zero for me. There are fourteen games left to play. Theory’s still work to be done.” 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

And looking ahead to next week’s Derby d’Italia against Juventus, Chivu said: “It’s a game like any other. Expectations are always high, but I want the group to keep their maturity and their awareness. 

“This is the first week where we have four training sessions in a row. We have a look at how we present ourselves for that match.” 

Dimarco shuts down ‘best in the world’ claims: ‘I don’t feel like anything’

Federico Dimarco is having an MVP-calibre season and has just recorded three assists from left wing-back in an eventual 5-0 victory for Inter away against Sassuolo, but he insists that he does not currently feel he is the best wide man in world football. 

Dimarco was the star of the show as Inter picked up a 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo at the Mapei Stadium in Serie A on Sunday evening. He registered three assists in a game that brought five different goalscorers in Yann Bisseck, Marcus Thuram, Lautaro Martinez, Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Dimarco reacts after his hat-trick of assists in Sassuolo 0-5 Inter

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Before Sunday, no defender in Serie A history had registered more than eight assists after 24 games of a single season. Dimarco is now up to 11. 

Though he continues to post incredible numbers off Inter’s left wing, Dimarco insists that he does not consider himself the best in the world in that position. 

“I don’t feel like anything,” Dimarco told DAZN after full-time. “When you’re good, you’re a phenomenon, otherwise, you’re poor. That’s football,” he continued. 

He later told Sky: “I’ve had decent moments before now, this might be the one in which I’m the most decisive in terms of numbers, but the team and getting to May at the top of the table is what counts.” 

Juventus director Chiellini on Spalletti: ‘No rush, but no doubt either’

Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini insists there is ‘no rush, but also no doubt’ over locking Luciano Spalletti down to a new contract ahead of tonight’s clash with Lazio.

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The Bianconeri have surged up the standings in recent weeks, but were on the end of a heavy 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final defeat to Atalanta on Thursday evening.

Chiellini calm on Spalletti deal

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Coach Spalletti’s contract only runs to June 30, so are there plans to draw up an extension?

“We are very happy with Spalletti and what he is achieving, I think he too is enjoying his time at Juventus. There is no rush, but also no doubt,” Chiellini told DAZN Italia.

“Luciano arrived here with great enthusiasm at Juventus, and he signed a contract with no guarantees precisely because he wanted to challenge himself. He is doing very well, he is part of the present and the future of this team.”

Official: Kenan Yildiz signs a new contract extension with Juventus until 2030 (also pictured: Marco Ottolini, Giorgio Chiellini, John Elkann, Damien Comolli and Francois Modesto). Picture via www.juventus.com
Official: Kenan Yildiz signs a new contract extension with Juventus until 2030 (also pictured: Marco Ottolini, Giorgio Chiellini, John Elkann, Damien Comolli and Francois Modesto). Picture via www.juventus.com

The good news this week was that Kenan Yildiz has signed a new contract, casting aside the interest from big clubs all over the world in this Turkish talent.

He also returns to the starting XI after a muscular issue, forming the attack with Jonathan David and Weston McKennie, while Teun Koopmeiners drops into defence.

Lautaro: ‘Collective goals’ more important than latest record, Dimarco ‘one of the best’

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez heaped praise on his teammate Federico Dimarco after their 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo in Serie A on Sunday evening, but insisted that the Nerazzurri still have work to do despite currently sitting eight points clear at the top of the league table. 

Cristian Chivu’s side recorded a thumping 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo on Sunday thanks to goals from five different goalscorers in Yann Bisseck, Marcus Thuram, Lautaro, Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique. 

You can see how the action unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Lautaro Martinez reacts to Sassuolo 0-5 Inter

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Lautaro’s goal means that he is now the third-highest goalscorer in Inter’s history with 171, level with Roberto Boninsegna. Only the legendary Giuseppe Meazza and Alessandro Altobelli have scored more goals in Nerazzurri colours than the Argentine. 

“The important thing, always, is to achieve our collective goals. It was a great goal for us and for everything I went through as a child, for everyone who helped me. This means a lot to me and for my career,” Lautaro told DAZN about his goal after full-time. 

The skipper also gave Dimarco his flowers after registering three goals from left wing-back on Sunday. DImarco currently has 11 assists to his name in the league this season. No defender has previously recorded more than eight at this stage of the season. 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“He was one of the best. He is deciding games right now. The team is the most important thing, but individual level is also important,” Lautaro said of Dimarco’s display. 

And lastly, looking ahead to a tricky run of fixtures in February, which includes derbies against Juventus, Milan and a Champions League play-off against Bodo/Glimt, Lautaro said: “We’ve dropped points in big games, we have to sort out some of the details and get the right results on our side. 

“We have to work hard with our heads down, we’re having a great moment and we’re happy with our season so far.”

Sarri: ‘Romagnoli important for Lazio, Maldini has huge potential’

Maurizio Sarri explains why Lazio leave Alessio Romagnoli on the bench against Juventus, and admits it is tricky to draw out Daniel Maldini’s ‘huge potential.’

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This was a tense January transfer window, as Alessio Romagnoli and Nuno Tavares seemed to be on the verge of moves, only to remain and tonight return, with the Portugal international in the starting XI for the first time since December 7.

Sarri reshuffles Lazio against Juventus

PARMA, ITALY - DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“It is a big test, Juventus are in great shape, they are very aggressive, intense, in good shape, so we must express ourselves at the highest level we’ve seen yet this season,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.

While Nuno Tavares starts, Romagnoli is only on the bench, so what prompted that decision?

“Romagnoli has always been an important player for us. He’s on the bench because we have three games in six days, so we prefer to let him train another couple of days before we throw him back in.”

The injury crisis drags on, missing Mattia Zaccagni, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot, plus suspended Luca Pellegrini.

ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 30: Pedro with his teammates of SS Lazio celebrates after scoring the opening goal from penalty spot during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on January 30, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 30: Pedro with his teammates of SS Lazio celebrates after scoring the opening goal from penalty spot during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on January 30, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

New arrival Daniel Maldini is used as a False 9 with support from Gustav Isaksen and veteran Pedro.

“Maldini has huge potential, we’ll see if we can actually draw it out of him, because a few have tried before, it depends on when the player matures,” noted Sarri.

“Kenneth Taylor was not in great physical shape when he arrived, but he is the most experienced of those who arrived in January, so he is the most ‘ready’ for action.”

Player ratings: Sassuolo 0-5 Inter: Dimarco on MVP form

The table-topping Inter took another step towards the Serie A title with a dominant 5-0 victory away against Sassuolo on Sunday evening in a game that included a hat-trick of assists from left wing-back Federico Dimarco. 

Five different players ended up on the scoresheet at the Mapei Stadium: Yann Bisseck and Marcus Thuram gave the travelling Nerazzurri the lead at the interval, which was followed by second-half strikes from Lautaro Martinez, Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique. 

With rivals Milan not involved in league action this week, Inter currently find themselves eight points clear at the top of the Serie A table after 24 matches. 

You can see how the action from today’s game unfolded on the Football Italia Liveblog.

Sassuolo 0-5 Inter: Player ratings! 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Sassuolo: Muric 4; Walukiewicz 4, Idzes 4, Muharemovic 4.5, Doig 5 (Garcia 5.5); Thorstvedt 5.5, Matic 4, Kone 5.5; Berardi 5 (Coulibaly 5.5), Pinamonti 5 (Nzola 5.5), Lauriente 5.5 (Lipani 5). 

Best Sassuolo player: Kristjan Thorstvedt 5.5 – Slim pickings on a night to forget for the Neroverdi. The Dane was unlucky to have his goal ruled out for a very tight offside when Inter were just two goals up. Otherwise, not a great display, like the majority of his teammates. 

Coach: Fabio Grosso 4 – Sassuolo started fairly brightly at the Mapei Stadium, but Grosso will be disappointed with what unfolded from there on. Sassuolo were particularly poor at defending set-pieces: They looked like conceding at almost every corner, free-kick and even throw-ins in the final third. 

Inter: Sommer 6; Bisseck 7, Akanji 7. Bastoni 6.5 (Darmian 6); L.Henrique 7, Sucic 6.5, Zielinski 6 (Frattesi 6), Mkhitaryan 6.5 (Diouf 6.5), Dimarco 9; Thuram (Bonny 6), L.Martinez (Esposito 6). 

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Best Inter player: Federico Dimarco 9 – What a fantastic season the Inter left wing-back is having. There are few players in the world better at delivering the ball into the area off the left flank. Three assists for him today: No defender has ever recorded as many assists as him at this stage of the season (11). The man is having an MVP-calibre season from wing-back. 

Coach: Cristian Chivu 9 – A clean sheet and a five-goal display on the road: It doesn’t get much better than that. Sassuolo had been in decent form heading into this game as well, and the Nerazzurri swept them aside with ease.

Serie A | Sassuolo 0-5 Inter: Super Nerazzurri shift into fifth gear

Inter unleashed a Manita on 10-man Sassuolo, including an historic Lautaro Martinez strike, first goals for Manuel Akanji and Luis Henrique, and a hat-trick of Federico Dimarco assists.

The Nerazzurri were on sparkling form, winning 10 of their last 11 Serie A games, and coming off Wednesday’s 2-1 Coppa Italia quarter-final victory over Torino. Nicolò Barella, Hakan Calhanoglu and Denzel Dumfries were still out of action, and away fans limited following the Emil Audero firework incident. The return of Domenico Berardi had revitalised Sassuolo, who earned back-to-back wins over Cremonese and Pisa, but Fali Cande and Edoardo Pieragnolo are out for the season.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale and Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale and Fabio Grosso head coach of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Sassuolo nearly scored in the opening 60 seconds, as Ismael Kone got away on the Armand Laurienté lay-off and his curler beat Yann Sommer, but Federico Dimarco got back for a decisive goal-line clearance.

Luis Henrique tested Arijanet Muric at the near post, and from the resulting corner, Dimarco floated the ball to the back post for the Yann Bisseck header, giving Inter the lead.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Yann Bisseck of FC Internazionale scores the opening goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Dimarco spotted Muric off his line and tried to float a free kick over him, only managing to thump the crossbar, while Lauriente’s cross-shot turned into an accidental assist for Berardi to flick wide with his heel.

Inter doubled their advantage with another Dimarco assist, bending the cross from the left around the defenders and swinging back in for Thuram to sweep first-time from six yards, ending a month-long Serie A drought.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazioale celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazioale celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Muric kept the scoreline down with his gloves stung by Piotr Zielinski, then Sassuolo got the ball in the net just before half-time when Berardi’s wayward volley on a Laurienté cross turned into an assist for Kristian Thorstvedt to cushion it over the line from six yards. However, it was disallowed because Laurienté had his kneecap offside at the start of the move.

After the restart, Dimarco’s effort was charged down and the Henrikh Mkhitaryan follow-up stung Muric’s gloves. On the resulting throw-in, a poor clearance allowed Lautaro Martinez to control with his chest and sweep in first time from 12 yards. It was a special moment, equalling Roberto Boninsegna’s tally to become the third all-time top scorer for Inter.

SASSUOLO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
SASSUOLO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 08: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring his team third goal during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and FC Internazionale at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on February 08, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Sassuolo fell apart, as Muric was again very weak on another Dimarco corner, which Manuel Akanji nodded in relatively undisturbed for 4-0. The Neroverdi claimed there had been a foul, with Nemanja Matic booked for dissent, immediately escalating his protests, to warrant a red card.

Muric was once more all at sea, so Josh Doig had to clear off the line when Mkhitaryan curled towards an empty net, then the goalkeeper was decisive to push a Thuram tap-in onto the upright after a strong Bisseck run.

Sassuolo introduced January buys Ulysses Garcia and M’Bala Nzola, but Muric was again caught rushing off his line at the wrong time, so Luis Henrique let it bounce, controlled with his chest, and smashed the half-volley into the roof of the net from a tricky angle for 5-0.

It was almost 6-0, as in stoppages Kone cleared a looping Akanji header off the line.

Sassuolo 0-5 Inter

Bisseck 11 (I), Thuram 28 (I), Lautaro Martinez 50 (I), Akanji 54 (I), Luis Henrique 89 (I)

Sent off: Matic 55 (S)

Player statistic

1st half
    11' Yann Bisseck
(Assist: Federico Dimarco)
    28' Marcus Thuram
(Assist: Federico Dimarco)
2nd half
    50' Lautaro Martínez
    53' Manuel Akanji
(Assist: Federico Dimarco)
Nemanja Matic 55'    
Nemanja Matic Yellow-Red card 55'    
    82' Yellow card Federico Dimarco
    89' Goal Luis Henrique

Match statistic

38
Possession %
62
7
Total shots
23
2
Shots on target
11
2
Shots off target
5
3
Blocked shots
7
5
Corners
6
3
Offsides
1
6
Fouls
10
Sassuolo
Inter

Starting lineups

49
Goalkeeper
21
Defender
3
Defender
70'
80
90
Midfielder
42
Midfielder
18
Midfielder
99
Attacker
71'
45
Attacker
59'
10
Attacker
59'
1
Goalkeeper
95
63'
32
Defender
25
Defender
8
Defender
31
Defender
22
Midfielder
69'
7
Midfielder
63'
10
76'
11
Attacker
9
Attacker
76'

Substitutes

7
Midfielder
19
Defender
12
Goalkeeper
16
Goalkeeper
11
Midfielder
24
Attacker
44
Midfielder
40
Midfielder
20
Midfielder
50
Midfielder
66
Defender
25
Defender
59'
35
Midfielder
59'
23
Defender
70'
8
Attacker
71'
15
Defender
6
Defender
30
Midfielder
13
Goalkeeper
41
Midfielder
12
Goalkeeper
43
Defender
16
Midfielder
63'
36
Defender
63'
17
Attacker
69'
14
Defender
76'
94
Attacker
76'

Serie A official line-ups: Juventus vs. Lazio

Kenan Yildiz hopes to celebrate his new Juventus contract by leading the attack with Jonathan David against Lazio, who start Daniel Maldini and returning Nuno Tavares.

It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

BERGAMO, ITALY - FEBRUARY 05: Jonathan David of Juventus reacts during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Jonathan David of Juventus reacts during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between Atalanta BC and Juventus FC at the New Balance Arena on February 05, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Bianconeri had been on excellent form until a surprisingly heavy 3-0 Coppa Italia quarter-final defeat to Atalanta on Thursday evening.

At least there was good news yesterday, when Kenan Yildiz formally signed a new contract to continue his experience in Turin.

He also returns to the starting XI after muscular issues, supporting centre-forward Jonathan David.

Weston McKennie is picked in support rather than Francisco Conceicao, Fabio Miretti, or January signing Jeremie Boga, as Dusan Vlahovic and Arek Milik remain long-term absentees.

Teun Koopmeiners is returned to the defence after a spell in midfield.

ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 14: SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri during the SS Lazio training session at the Formello sport Centre on January 14, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 14: SS Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri during the SS Lazio training session at the Formello sport Centre on January 14, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Lazio constantly seem to be dealing with a crisis, both on and off the field, and this weekend is no different.

Following the chaotic 3-2 win over Genoa, Luca Pellegrini is suspended, with Mattia Zaccagni, Manuel Lazzari and Samuel Gigot injured.

The positive news is that Alessio Romagnoli is available again in defence, after failing to force through a January transfer to Al-Sadd, but he is on the bench.

New signing Maldini starts in attack with veteran Pedro preferred to Petar Ratkov, Tijjani Noslin and Boulaye Dia.

Gustav Isaksen and Kenneth Taylor also provide support, while Nuno Tavares is another player brought back into the squad after a mid-season exit failed to materialise.

ROME, ITALY - JANUARY 30:Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Alessandro Mercandalli of Genoa CFC during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on January 30, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi - SS Lazio/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 30:Daniel Maldini of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Alessandro Mercandalli of Genoa CFC during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Genoa CFC at Stadio Olimpico on January 30, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Juventus vs. Lazio official line-ups

Juventus: Di Gregorio; Kalulu, Bremer, Koopmeiners; Cabal, Locatelli, Thuram, Cambiaso; McKennie, Yildiz; David

Lazio: Provedel; Marusic, Gila, Provstgaard, Nuno Tavares; Basic, Cataldi, Taylor; Isaksen, Maldini, Pedro

Player statistic

1st half
    33' Kenneth Taylor
    45+2' Pedro
(Assist: Daniel Maldini)
2nd half
    47' Gustav Isaksen
(Assist: Danilo Cataldi)
Weston McKennie
(Assist: Andrea Cambiaso)
59'    
    81' Yellow card Alessio Romagnoli
Pierre Kalulu
(Assist: Jeremie Boga)
Goal 90+6'    

Match statistic

63
Possession %
37
34
Total shots
9
8
Shots on target
2
13
Shots off target
5
13
Blocked shots
2
8
Corners
1
7
Offsides
1
10
Fouls
4
Juventus
Lazio

Starting lineups

16
Goalkeeper
27
Defender
76'
3
Defender
32
Defender
46'
15
Defender
19
Midfielder
5
Midfielder
84'
8
Midfielder
77'
22
Midfielder
84'
30
Attacker
10
Attacker
94
Goalkeeper
77
Defender
34
Defender
77'
17
Defender
25
83'
Midfielder
32
Midfielder
24
Midfielder
26
Midfielder
46'
18
Attacker
65'
9
Attacker
64'

Substitutes

23
Goalkeeper
1
Goalkeeper
4
Defender
18
Midfielder
2
Defender
17
Midfielder
11
Attacker
46'
13
Attacker
76'
6
Defender
77'
21
Midfielder
84'
20
Attacker
84'
23
Defender
55
Goalkeeper
6
Midfielder
19
Attacker
21
Midfielder
Goalkeeper
20
Attacker
99
Attacker
7
Midfielder
46'
14
Attacker
64'
22
65'
13
77'
4
Defender
83'

Manchester United targeting Tonali to replace Casemiro for 2026-27

Reports in the UK claim that Manchester United could target Italy international Sandro Tonali to replace the outgoing Casemiro in their midfield department during the summer transfer window. 

Could Manchester United move for Tonali in the summer?

Tonali’s agent, Beppe Riso, has recently sparked transfer speculation after giving an interview to Tuttosport, hinting that his client could potentially be on the way out of Newcastle at some stage in the near future.

“These transfer talks will be held later on. We’ll see how the season ends and then decide what to do,” Riso said. 

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - JANUARY 07: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leeds United at St James' Park on January 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 07: Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Leeds United at St James’ Park on January 07, 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

There had been brief reports linking Tonali with a move to Arsenal on the final day of the January transfer window, but given the likely fee and negotiation process, this was never going to be feasible in the final hours of the window. Juventus have also been long-term admirers of the former Milan man. 

Now, according to reports from the Telegraph, Tonali is ‘high up’ on Manchester United’s list of midfield recruits for the summer transfer window. United will need a new midfielder to replace Casemiro, who will leave the club at the end of the 2025-26 season. 

The Telegraph claims that Tonali, Eliott Anderson and Adam Wharton are among Manchester United’s top targets heading into the summer. 

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)
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)

The Telegraph has not mentioned a specific transfer fee, but has pointed to the transfers of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo to Chelsea and the transfer of Declan Rice to Arsenal, all of which surpassed the €100m mark. 

Recent reports elsewhere have suggested that Newcastle will seek a fee in the region or potentially above the €100m mark if they are to sell Tonali, who joined for a reported fee of around €70m including add-ons from Milan in 2023. 

Official: Gasperini confirms 21-man Roma squad for Cagliari

Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed a travelling squad of 21 players to take on Cagliari in Serie A on Monday evening, but will have to do without Paulo Dybala, Evan Ferguson, Stephan El Shaarawy and Robinio Vaz. 

The Giallorossi are hoping to bounce back after a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Udinese last time out in Serie A. That result saw them drop out of the top four and into fifth place, two points behind Juventus, who currently occupy the final Champions League spot. 

Roma’s attention now turns to an away trip against Cagliari, which kicks off at 19.45 GMT on Monday evening. 

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)
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)

Gasperini will have to navigate the Cagliari match without a few of his key first-team attackers, though. Dybala has been ruled out, but is hoping to return against Napoli next weekend. 

Ferguson is also out with an ankle issue, while El Shaarawy and Robinio Vaz remain unavailable. The January signing is also likely to return next weekend. Mario Hermoso is also unavailable in defence. 

As was also the case for Roma’s last two matches, Matias Soule and Lorenzo Pellegrini are expected to start in attack alongside Donyell Malen. January recruits Bryan Zaragoza and Lorenzo Venturino are also pushing for game time, but are unlikely to start. 

16-year-old Antonio Arena will also be among the substitutes against Cagliari. 

Confirmed Roma squad vs. Cagliari 

Bryan Zaragoza completes his transfer to Roma (asroma.com)
Bryan Zaragoza completes his transfer to Roma (asroma.com)

Goalkeepers: Svilar, Gollini, Zelezny. 

Defenders: Wesley, Rensch, Celik, Ndicka, Mancini, Ziolkowski, Ghilardi, Angelino, Tsimikas. 

Midfielders: Cristante, El-Aynaoui, Pellegrini, Pisilli. 

Forwards: Malen, Soule, Zaragoza, Venturino, Arena.

Lucca gets Napoli fans furious with Nottingham Forest celebration

Napoli fans have reacted with fury and insults after Lorenzo Lucca seemed to bait them with an Instagram post after scoring his first Nottingham Forest goal.

The Italy international had a dismal first six months at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, managing just two goals in 23 competitive games.

TURIN, ITALY - OCTOBER 18: Adrien Tameze of Torino is challenged by Lorenzo Lucca of Napoli during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 18, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 18: Adrien Tameze of Torino is challenged by Lorenzo Lucca of Napoli during the Serie A match between Torino FC and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 18, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

It wasn’t much of a tally for someone who cost €35m to purchase from Udinese, so after dropping down the pecking order, he was loaned to Nottingham Forest with option to buy for €35m.

Lucca scored on his debut for the Premier League side, in a 3-1 defeat to Leeds United, and celebrated on Instagram with a post that stirred up a strong reaction.

Napoli fans angry at Lucca provocation

 

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“Forgive them, for they do not know,” he wrote in English.

This was seen as a dig at his critics back in Italy, but the Napoli fans responded with irritation.

Some pointed out “this kind of thing is why it didn’t work at Napoli,” while another noted “you only scored a consolation goal” and “you’ve made more Instagram posts than goals in the last four months.”

LEEDS, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca embraces Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest as Omari Hutchinson and Sean Dyche look on during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Lorenzo Lucca embraces Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest as Omari Hutchinson and Sean Dyche look on during the Premier League match between Leeds United and Nottingham Forest at Elland Road on February 06, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

It seems to be the reaction he was looking for, as Lucca clicked ‘like’ on most of the insulting comments from Napoli supporters.

Mostly the Napoli fans reacted with sarcasm, hoping he scores many more goals so Nottingham Forest will be tempted to buy him outright.

Chivu: ‘Inter need everyone, Lautaro Martinez a pleasure to watch’

Cristian Chivu explains the importance of squad rotation as Inter make nine changes for the trip to Sassuolo, noting Lautaro Martinez is ‘a pleasure to watch for those who love football.’

It kicks off at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio-Emilia at 17.00 GMT (18.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s four Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The Nerazzurri are threatening to run away with the Scudetto race, winning 10 of the last 11 matches in the league and drawing the other.

They are also preparing for the Champions League play-offs against Bodo/Glimt, and on Wednesday beat Torino 2-1 in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

Chivu using all the Inter resources

MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 14: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“We need concentration, the right attitude, understanding the approach we need and winning the individual duels,” Chivu told Sky Sport Italia.

It is always a tricky test against Sassuolo, who have been revitalised by the return of club icon Domenico Berardi, winning back-to-back games.

“Sassuolo caused a lot of problems for Inter over the years, and this season are doing very well, especially for a newly-promoted side.”

In a packed schedule, Inter have seen squad rotation be their greatest strength, including first starts for youth team products Matteo Cocchi and Issiaka Kamate midweek.

There are nine changes to the starting XI this evening from that Coppa Italia tie.

MONZA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MONZA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 04: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, gestures during the Coppa Italia Quarter-Final match between FC Internazionale and Torino at U-Power Stadium on February 04, 2026 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“What matters is that we have a full squad that is ready to step up and contribute to the common cause,” explained Chivu.

“It is a long season, we know that we need consistency and ambition, because we are Inter, a team that made history and plays at the highest level, domestically and internationally.”

MILAN, ITALY - JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 04: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Lautaro Martinez has 170 goals in 366 games for Inter, so is just one shy of matching Roberto Boninsegna as the third all-time top scorer for this club.

As someone who sees him every day in training, what stands out about the Argentina international?

“His hunger, that desire to be decisive and to win, to always be himself and work constantly to keep improving. He has so many great qualities shared by the great strikers, he is a pleasure to watch for those who love football,” replied Chivu.

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