Fiorentina thanked several big David De Gea saves and a Nicolò Fagioli goal against the run of play, beating Verona to break away from the drop zone.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

This was a huge relegation dogfight, as the Viola were only two points clear of the drop zone and made the trip without Rolando Mandragora, Dodo, Fabiano Parisi, Manor Solomon, Niccolò Fortini, and Tariq Lamptey, but Moise Kean was risked from the start despite a recurring ankle issue.

Hellas were joint rock bottom with Pisa, missing Sandi Lovric, Armel Bella-Kotchap and Suat Serdar, although Domagoj Bradaric and Antoine Bernede were available again.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Fiorentina had a huge chance to take the lead in the fourth minute when the Nicolò Fagioli volley from the edge of the area smacked the top of the crossbar.

At the other end, David De Gea needed a sensational one-handed save to deny the Bernede scorcher at the near post, but Kieron Bowie scuffed from a promising position on the Rafik Belghali pull-back.

De Gea flew again to palm a Gift Orban strike out from under the crossbar, then had an even tougher save on Oyegoke after Bowie pounced on a Marin Pongracic error.

Verona kept pushing after the restart, as three times they flashed dangerous balls across the face of goal, with nobody able to get the tap-in, most dangerously when Bowie was inches away from getting his boot to it from four yards.

Bowie also cut inside to bend a left-foot finish just over the bar, but it was Fiorentina who took the lead completely against the run of play. Jack Harrison got down the right and laid it off for Fagioli to sweep in first time with the right foot from 14 yards. The home fans and players were furious, because only moments earlier the referee had stopped play for a Fagioli injury in a clash with Roberto Gagliardini.

The tension spilled out when Tomas Suslov and Albert Gudmundsson got into a brawl before a Verona free kick, leading to them both getting sent off with ripped jerseys.

It was a tough slog, but Fiorentina leapfrog Cagliari in the standings and practically doom Verona to relegation.

Verona 0-1 Fiorentina

Fagioli 82 (F)

Sent off: Gudmundsson 85 (F), Suslov 85 (V)

04-04-2026 17:00

MatchDay 31

Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi

Verona

Fiorentina

0 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Roberto Gagliardini

17'

2nd half

Victor Nelsson		79'
		82'		Nicolò Fagioli (Assist: Jack Harrison)
		84'		Nicolò Fagioli
Tomas Suslov		85'
		85'		Albert Gudmundsson
Rafik Belghali		88'

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

21

Total shots

5

8

Shots on target

1

10

Shots off target

2

3

Blocked shots

2

9

Corners

1

1

Offsides

0

15

Fouls

7

Verona

Fiorentina

Starting lineups

1

Lorenzo Montipò

Goalkeeper

5

Andrias Edmundsson

Defender

2

Daniel Oyegoke

Defender

75'

3

Martin Frese

Defender

7

Rafik Belghali

Defender

15

Victor Nelsson

Defender

90'

24

Antoine Bernede

Midfielder

75'

11

Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro

Midfielder

63

Roberto Gagliardini

Midfielder

16

Gift Orban

Attacker

67'

18

Kieron Bowie

Attacker

43

David de Gea

Goalkeeper

6

Luca Ranieri

Defender

5

Marin Pongracic

Defender

15

Pietro Comuzzo

Defender

90'

27

Cher Ndour

Midfielder

80

Giovanni Fabbian

Midfielder

59'

44

Nicolò Fagioli

Midfielder

90'

21

Robin Gosens

Midfielder

76'

10

Albert Gudmundsson

Attacker

17

Jack Harrison

Attacker

20

Moise Kean

Attacker

76'

Substitutes

21

Abdou Harroui

Midfielder

34

Simone Perilli

Goalkeeper

14

Pol Lirola

Defender

36

Cheikh Niasse

Attacker

94

Giacomo Toniolo

Goalkeeper

73

Moatasem Al-Musrati

Midfielder

6

Nicolás Valentini

Defender

19

Tobias Slotsager

Defender

70

Fallou Cham

Defender

41

Isaac

Attacker

9

Amin Sarr

Attacker

67'

12

Domagoj Bradaric

Defender

75'

10

Tomas Suslov

Attacker

75'

25

Daniel Mosquera

Attacker

90'

1

Luca Lezzerini

Goalkeeper

53

Oliver Christensen

Goalkeeper

60

Eddy Kouadio

Defender

23

Eman Kospo

Defender

61

Riccardo Braschi

Attacker

63

Piergiorgio Bonanno

Midfielder

64

Lapo Deli

Midfielder

67

Edoardo Sadotti

Defender

91

Roberto Piccoli

Attacker

59'

22

Jacopo Fazzini

Midfielder

76'

62

Luis Balbo

Defender

76'

3

Daniele Rugani

Defender

90'

4

Marco Brescianini

Midfielder

90'

Inter are in talks for Sassuolo and Bosnia and Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic, claims Sportitalia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà, also linked with Manchester United, Tottenham and RB Leipzig.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

It is no secret that the Nerazzurri need to revamp their defence next season, as veterans like Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij are set to leave, with Alessandro Bastoni heavily linked with a move to Barcelona.

Ironically, it is one of the players responsible for Bastoni’s Italy malaise who is their primary target, as pundit Pedullà claims Bosnia and Herzegovina centre-back Muharemovic is first choice.

Muharemovic has impressed Inter scouts

The asking price would be around €30m, but half of that would go to his former club Juventus, who retain a 50 per cent cut of the sell-on fee.

The 23-year-old first came to Italy for the Juventus youth academy in 2021 and made his mark with the Next Gen team, earning a move to Sassuolo in 2024.

The sale fee was only €2m because Juve knew they would profit far more from a big sale in future and that would seem to be happening this summer.

Inter face stiff competition from the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and RB Leipzig.

He would be considerably cheaper than the other option, which is Riccardo Calafiori from Arsenal, who’d be at least €50m.

Beppe Marotta is a specialist at laying the groundwork for moves early, so is already pushing hard with negotiations behind the scenes.

Reports in Turkish media claim that Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio is a transfer target for Besiktas, but the idea would be to get him on loan.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The shot-stopper turns 29 in July and is under contract in Turin until June 2029, having been purchased from Monza in 2024 for a total of €19m plus bonuses.

He had been their first choice goalkeeper, but that position has been increasingly put in doubt after some poor performances and costly errors.

Juventus not eager to keep Di Gregorio

Di Gregorio was dropped for a few games to make way for Mattia Perin, though neither of them are expected to be first choice next season.

Turkish reports claim that Besiktas have set their sights on the Italian, although because of the transfer fee expected to be around €14m, they would prefer to get him on loan instead.

He made 30 competitive appearances for Juventus this term, keeping 12 clean sheets and conceding 33 goals.

There are reports Milan legend Paolo Maldini is targeted to be the new President of the Italian Football Federation after Gabriele Gravina’s resignation.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

Italian football is in flux following the unprecedented failure to qualify for three consecutive editions of the World Cup.

There have been resignations from FIGC President Gravina, coach Gennaro Gattuso, and delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon.

Maldini among options to lead Italian football

The search is on for a new Federation leader who can enact reforms that help value Italian youth, and an intriguing candidate is Maldini.

According to La Stampa newspaper, as reported by MilanNews, the former Italy defender is the first choice put forward by Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi.

There is going to be an election for the new FIGC President on June 22, and new candidates have to be confirmed at least 40 days beforehand.

It might not be easy to convince Maldini to take the role, as he had always said his only job in Italian football would be with Milan.

He was the director of development in 2018-19, then became the technical director until he was unceremoniously sacked in June 2023.

The former defender is also a co-owner of Miami FC and amassed what had been a record 126 senior caps for Italy.

Luciano Spalletti shrugs off Juventus contract talk and is glad to reunite with ‘son’ Daniele De Rossi, but Italy players are ‘tied to disappointment like a leash’ after World Cup failure.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The Bianconeri host Genoa on Monday at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

They went into the break for international duty in joint fifth place with Roma, three points adrift of high-flying Como, so it’s going to be a fight to the end for Champions League qualification.

Spalletti keeps focus on Juventus targets

“It is an important final sprint, but that’s a normal standard for us, so when you say there are eight Finals, that’s what it should always be for Juventus,” said Spalletti in his press conference.

“We must be ready to give our best, and there is no margin for error, as we’ll need to win practically every game to get there, starting with a very difficult Genoa.”

It had been reported that Spalletti would sign a new contract with Juventus during the break, but there is no announcement yet.

“I don’t understand why you care so much about this. We’ve got a perfectly fine rapport and there will be the opportunity to discuss it, we don’t need to do it all now. It has to come naturally.”

Vlahovic made his comeback a couple of weeks ago from that serious injury and could even potentially be in the starting XI on Monday.

“He trained well and is available, but I doubt he’ll be able to start. He could give us a hand,” added Spalletti.

“Jeremie Boga showed what he is capable of, he is a very quick player with these bursts of pace, but doesn’t love physical contact. We are happy to have him here.”

Genoa are now coached by Daniele De Rossi, who worked with Spalletti as a player at Roma.

“Daniele is one of my football children, and I care for him just as I think he cares for me. At the same time, as with all father-son relationships, sometimes I got on his nerves.

“It is a Genoa side suited to De Rossi, because you can see his characteristics and mentality in the squad.”

Inevitably, the questions turned towards the failure of Italy to qualify for a third consecutive edition of the World Cup, losing the play-offs to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It was particularly pointed here, considering Spalletti started the campaign and was fired after two games to make way for Gennaro Gattuso.

“Obviously, those who did qualify returned to base happier and those who didn’t are tied to disappointment like a leash,” said Spalletti.

“I know everyone and how much love and passion they put into this. I am sad about what happened, but I also hope that people listen to all sorts of advice, and start to plan properly for the future.

“We need to ask ourselves if we really care about getting value out of talent. There are many foreign owners in Italian football now, and that is good, but we must ask if they want to make the most of Italian players. It is also only right to go and seek the best from the other nations.

“I think there are still many mothers out there who are churning out talents like those of Baggio, Totti, Del Piero and Cannavaro did in the past, and we must be in a position to use the talent that more mothers bring into the world.”

Cesc Fabregas is not hiding Como’s Champions League ambition as they visit Udinese and reveals the advice he received from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. ‘I wasn’t sure I was ready.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The Lariani are three points clear of Juventus and Roma in fourth place, and hope to expand that further when they visit Udinese on Monday at 11.30 UK time (12.30 CEST).

A run of five consecutive victories saw them surge up the standings towards what would be an extraordinary Champions League qualification.

Fabregas and Como not holding back

“Udinese are one of the most physical teams in Serie A, I like them and you can see how well they are working, so we must be very precise and keep a high tempo,” said Fabregas in his press conference.

“The Champions League place depends on us. We are here, we know who we are and what we want to achieve. In this league, you need to play at a certain level if you want to win any game.”

Some changes are forced, as Jesus Rodriguez sustained a knee injury, joining long-term absentee Jayden Addai on the treatment table, while Jacobo Ramon is not at 100 per cent either.

“This team has grown in mentality and has more options available, has become more mature and consistent. I always ask us to go at full pelt, that has to be our mentality,” noted Fabregas.

“A red card, a penalty, many things can happen, but we have to keep a positive attitude.”

Como are also in the Coppa Italia semi-final after the first leg with Inter ended 0-0, so it is turning into an extraordinary campaign for a side that was in Serie B just two years ago.

It all prompted the Bearzot Award for coaching to Fabregas, who is already being associated with jobs at clubs like Real Madrid and Chelsea.

“I want to grow. I will not be the same coach in 8-10 years as I am today, just as I am not the same now as I was when I started two years ago. I feel ready for anything, that is why I have no doubts on myself.

“This is what a leader has to do, convince a player to do one thing rather than another. I know that I must improve in certain areas, but we have paved the way, we just need to knock down that wall, keep winning and doing so convincingly.

“That also means at times enjoying the pressure, even if it’s not what we are working for.”

Fabregas also reveals he had some intriguing conversations with colleagues and former teammates before starting the Como job.

“I had spoken to Arteta and said I wasn’t sure if I was ready for this. He told me: ‘We are so competitive, that even if you are not ready, your urge to be competitive will push you to find solutions and give you that vision.’

“I can say that two years later, he was right. My staff helped with advice, but at the end of the day, I am the one who has to talk, to make decisions, to feel it within me. A coach has to be ready.”

Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup prompted some to criticise clubs for not using Italian players, and Como are the worst offenders here, playing an Italian for one minute in Serie A this season.

“Obviously there are Italian players I like, but they are at Juventus, Inter, etc. I always liked Manuel Locatelli, while obviously I like Marco Palestra. The trouble is that if you go and ask for Palestra, they want €40m.

“I understand that we don’t have many Italians right now, but we did two years ago. We must all make our choices at the right time. There are many young players at the moment, we started from scratch two years ago, this is a different phase.”

Sassuolo turned it around after the Sebastiano Esposito penalty, as Ulisses Garcia and Andrea Pinamonti plunge Cagliari closer to the relegation zone.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

Both teams went into the break for international duty in poor form, as the Neroverdi remain comfortably mid-table, but scraped one point from three rounds after their squad was decimated by a whooping cough outbreak in the 1-1 draw at Juventus.

Daniel Boloca, Fali Cande and Edoardo Pieragnolo were long-term absentees, though Kristian Thorstvedt returned. Cagliari risked getting dragged back into the danger zone after two points in seven rounds, with Alberto Dossena suspended, Leonardo Pavoletti, Mattia Felici and Riyad Idrissi injured.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Thorstvedt’s chest and volley flashed just wide of the far top corner, while Sebastiano Esposito’s attempt was charged down from 12 yards.

Esposito tried to break through the middle, but Jay Idzes flicked the ball away from his knee with a hand while stumbling, and VAR spotted the handling offence to award the penalty. Esposito converted hard and low into the near bottom corner, despite Arijanet Muric getting his fingertips to it.

Alessandro Deiola also tested Muric, but Armand Laurienté saw his free kick fingertipped over the bar by Elia Caprile and Domenico Berardi’s shot from a corner kick routine was blocked off.

Sassuolo equalised after the restart, as Yerry Mina cleared a corner to the edge of the D, where Ulisses Garcia was ready to control with his chest and sweep on the half-volley into the bottom corner. It was the first Serie A goal for the January signing from Olympique Marseille.

Juan Rodriguez prevented Domenico Berardi going clear after a give and go with Thorstvedt, but Deiola couldn’t keep his header down on a Marco Palestra cross.

Luca Lipani scored within minutes of coming off the bench, but was clearly offside on the Thorstvedt assist.

It was just a warning, as Sassuolo did turn the game around when Darryl Bakola flicked on a throw-in for Andrea Pinamonti, who gathered with his back to goal, turned and threaded the finish through a tiny gap into the near bottom corner from 12 yards.

Cagliari had a huge chance to equalise in stoppages when Muric fumbled a simple cross, but Adam Obert couldn’t keep the finish on target from a tricky angle when faced with the open goal.

Sassuolo 2-1 Cagliari

Esposito pen 30 (C), Garcia 50 (S), Pinamonti 78 (S)

04-04-2026 14:00

MatchDay 31

Mapei Stadium - Città del Tricolore

Sassuolo

Cagliari

2 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

30'

Sebastiano Esposito

2nd half

Ulisses Garcia		50'
Andrea Pinamonti (Assist: Darryl Bakola)		78'
Andrea Pinamonti		79'

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

9

Total shots

11

2

Shots on target

3

5

Shots off target

5

2

Blocked shots

3

2

Corners

2

2

Offsides

1

14

Fouls

11

Sassuolo

Cagliari

Starting lineups

49

Arijanet Muric

Goalkeeper

19

Filippo Romagna

Defender

58'

21

Jay Idzes

Defender

6

Sebastian Walukiewicz

Defender

23

Ulisses Garcia

Defender

7

Cristian Volpato

Midfielder

58'

90

Ismaël Koné

Midfielder

69'

42

Kristian Thorstvedt

Midfielder

99

Andrea Pinamonti

Attacker

82'

45

Armand Lauriente

Attacker

69'

10

Domenico Berardi

Attacker

1

Elia Caprile

Goalkeeper

33

Adam Obert

Defender

15

Juan Rodríguez

Defender

2

Marco Palestra

Defender

26

Yerry Mina

Defender

32

Zé Pedro

Defender

83'

14

Alessandro Deiola

Midfielder

10

Gianluca Gaetano

Midfielder

75'

90

Michael Folorunsho

Midfielder

74'

8

Michel Adopo

Midfielder

90'

94

Sebastiano Esposito

Attacker

90'

Substitutes

12

Giacomo Satalino

Goalkeeper

16

Gioele Zacchi

Goalkeeper

13

Stefano Turati

Goalkeeper

24

Luca Moro

Attacker

44

Edoardo Iannoni

Midfielder

3

Josh Doig

Defender

40

Aster Vranckx

Midfielder

20

Alieu Fadera

Midfielder

80

Tarik Muharemovic

Defender

66

Pedro Felipe

Defender

25

Woyo Coulibaly

Defender

58'

18

Nemanja Matic

Midfielder

58'

35

Luca Lipani

Midfielder

69'

50

Darryl Bakola

Midfielder

69'

8

M’Bala Nzola

Attacker

82'

19

Andrea Belotti

Attacker

4

Luca Mazzitelli

Midfielder

24

Giuseppe Ciocci

Goalkeeper

12

Alen Sherri

Goalkeeper

27

Joseph Liteta

Midfielder

20

Agustín Albarracín

Midfielder

18

Othniel Raterink

Midfielder

29

Gennaro Borrelli

Attacker

74'

25

Ibrahim Sulemana

Midfielder

75'

9

Semih Kılıçsoy

Attacker

83'

28

Gabriele Zappa

Defender

90'

31

Paul Mendy

Attacker

90'

Fiorentina hope Moise Kean and Albert Gudmundsson can stem the injury crisis in a big relegation dogfight against Kieron Bowie’s desperate Verona.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

It kicks off at the Stadio Bentegodi at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s three Serie A games on the Liveblog.

This is a pure battle to avoid the drop, because although there are 11 points between them, Verona are in 19^th place and Fiorentina in 16^th, the Viola just two points clear of the relegation zone.

It’s a last chance saloon for Hellas, as losing this basically dooms them to Serie B.

Sandi Lovric, Armel Bella-Kotchap and Suat Serdar are still out of action, though Domagoj Bradaric and Antoine Bernede are available again.

January signing Kieron Bowie has impressed with a goal and an assist in seven Serie A games since his January move from Hibernian.

Fiorentina are in the midst of an injury crisis, made worse by the fact there is a Conference League quarter-final trip to Crystal Palace coming up on Thursday.

Nonetheless, Moise Kean is risked from the start after returning from Italy’s disastrous World Cup play-offs, despite the ankle flaring up again.

Rolando Mandragora, Dodo, Fabiano Parisi, Manor Solomon, Niccolò Fortini, and Tariq Lamptey are also out of action.

It means Gudmundsson and Kean lead the attack, with Cher Ndour fresh from goals for the Italy Under-21 side.

Verona vs. Fiorentina line-ups

Verona: Montipò; Nelsson, Edmundsson, Frese; Oyegoke, Akpa Akpro, Gagliardini, Bernede, Belghali; Bowie, Orban

Fiorentina: De Gea; Comuzzo, Pongracic, Ranieri, Gosens; Fabbian, Fagioli, Ndour; Harrison, Kean, Gudmundsson

04-04-2026 17:00

MatchDay 31

Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi

Verona

Fiorentina

0 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Roberto Gagliardini

17'

2nd half

Victor Nelsson		79'
		82'		Nicolò Fagioli (Assist: Jack Harrison)
		84'		Nicolò Fagioli
Tomas Suslov		85'
		85'		Albert Gudmundsson
Rafik Belghali		88'

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

21

Total shots

5

8

Shots on target

1

10

Shots off target

2

3

Blocked shots

2

9

Corners

1

1

Offsides

0

15

Fouls

7

Verona

Fiorentina

Starting lineups

1

Lorenzo Montipò

Goalkeeper

5

Andrias Edmundsson

Defender

2

Daniel Oyegoke

Defender

75'

3

Martin Frese

Defender

7

Rafik Belghali

Defender

15

Victor Nelsson

Defender

90'

24

Antoine Bernede

Midfielder

75'

11

Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro

Midfielder

63

Roberto Gagliardini

Midfielder

16

Gift Orban

Attacker

67'

18

Kieron Bowie

Attacker

43

David de Gea

Goalkeeper

6

Luca Ranieri

Defender

5

Marin Pongracic

Defender

15

Pietro Comuzzo

Defender

90'

27

Cher Ndour

Midfielder

80

Giovanni Fabbian

Midfielder

59'

44

Nicolò Fagioli

Midfielder

90'

21

Robin Gosens

Midfielder

76'

10

Albert Gudmundsson

Attacker

17

Jack Harrison

Attacker

20

Moise Kean

Attacker

76'

Substitutes

21

Abdou Harroui

Midfielder

34

Simone Perilli

Goalkeeper

14

Pol Lirola

Defender

36

Cheikh Niasse

Attacker

94

Giacomo Toniolo

Goalkeeper

73

Moatasem Al-Musrati

Midfielder

6

Nicolás Valentini

Defender

19

Tobias Slotsager

Defender

70

Fallou Cham

Defender

41

Isaac

Attacker

9

Amin Sarr

Attacker

67'

12

Domagoj Bradaric

Defender

75'

10

Tomas Suslov

Attacker

75'

25

Daniel Mosquera

Attacker

90'

1

Luca Lezzerini

Goalkeeper

53

Oliver Christensen

Goalkeeper

60

Eddy Kouadio

Defender

23

Eman Kospo

Defender

61

Riccardo Braschi

Attacker

63

Piergiorgio Bonanno

Midfielder

64

Lapo Deli

Midfielder

67

Edoardo Sadotti

Defender

91

Roberto Piccoli

Attacker

59'

22

Jacopo Fazzini

Midfielder

76'

62

Luis Balbo

Defender

76'

3

Daniele Rugani

Defender

90'

4

Marco Brescianini

Midfielder

90'

Max Allegri gives an injury update on Rafael Leao and warns Milan and Napoli must focus on what is ‘in our hands,’ because the Scudetto race ‘depends on Inter.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

It kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Monday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

This is a real Scudetto showdown between third and second, who both moved to within reach of leaders Inter after the Nerazzurri went three rounds without victory.

At the same time, they are both looking over their shoulders at the battle raging for a top four finish.

Allegri focus is on Milan’s first objective

“When we are mathematically sure of being in the top four, then we can think about something else,” noted Allegri in his press conference.

“Football is fantastic, but in 15 days you can see seven months of work turned on its head. We mustn’t say that we want to win, because it doesn’t achieve anything. When you work at a club like Milan, you must have ambition, but having ambition and actually winning are two different things.

“So we must continue looking over our shoulders, especially as getting back into the Champions League is all in our hands, just as the Scudetto is in Inter’s hands.”

You can read more of Allegri’s comments here.

Can whoever wins on Monday between Milan and Napoli still hope of winning the title?

“That depends on Inter,” he replied.

“Napoli are a strong team, and the fact they are still there fighting despite all those injuries says a lot. The final result is all that most people judge a team on, though.”

As Rossoneri fans are banned from making the trip due to security fears, hundreds gathered at the training ground today instead to salute the players.

“It was a wonderful day, now the important thing is that we make it a wonderful Monday evening,” said Allegri.

“This was a great confidence booster, we were pleased to see the fans there. Tomorrow we’ll have a full training session and decide who will start in Naples.”

There are some injury concerns to deal with, above all for Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic, while Santiago Gimenez and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are back from long lay-offs.

“Leao is doing much better, Pulisic came back from international duty in good shape. Gimenez is eager, Niclas Fullkrug and Loftus-Cheek are doing better, so everyone seems fine. Matteo Gabbia should be back from Tuesday too.”

Allegri was asked whether Leao will be in the starting XI and kept his options open.

“We’ll see tomorrow, but especially now with changes in temperature and the tempo of the games, we need players who have sharp minds and great technique. Now we finally have two strikers with precise characteristics, Gimenez and Fullkrug, available.”

With that in mind, the Leao as False 9 idea could be scrapped in favour of a 4-3-3 formation at Milan.

“The system only means so much, but Alexis Saelemaekers is far more effective as part of a trident than as a full-back,” noted Allegri.

Max Allegri said he hopes to ‘be the Milan coach for a long time,’ but when pressed on taking the Italy job, responds ‘life is unpredictable and you never know what could happen.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The Nazionale are seeking yet another CT after Gennaro Gattuso walked away just eight games into his tenure, having failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Allegri has been named as one of the primary contenders for the role, but remains under contract with the Rossoneri and on track to reach the Champions League after one season.

Allegri asked about Italy ambition

During today’s press conference, he was asked outright if he would like to be the Italy boss in future.

“I haven’t thought about it yet,” replied Allegri.

“I am at Milan, I am happy here, and hope to be here for a long time. We started with the objective of qualifying for the Champions League, which is a fascinating tournament that I have not participated in for a while. I’d like to play it with Milan.

“The Nazionale problem is not just about the coach, but the entire system that needs to find solutions. It is not all to be thrown away, because even when things are going badly, there is always something you can build on.”

When pushed further, he did not close the door completely on the Italy job.

“Life is unpredictable, you never know what could happen…”

Allegri was also asked about the problem around Italian football as a whole, not just for the Nazionale, but also at club level where no teams made it to the Champions League quarter-final.

“I am sad about the World Cup, but I think everyone should take this as an opportunity to grow. There are those whose job it is to get together, examine the rules, see what can be done from the very foundations of academies to the first team.

“I don’t think it can all be sorted out in 10 minutes. We need time to create a united front of ideas so we can be in the best condition to reach the World Cup in 2030.

“We do have good players in Italy, and I think the future is in good hands. I repeat, it is not about the coach, there are many things to be examined before 2030.”

Among the potential ideas to fix Italian football is a change of rules to force Serie A sides to play local talent rather than foreign imports.

“It’s difficult, because you’d have to look at the statistics compared to all the other big leagues. I am sure that once they look into these things and take the time to not make any rash decisions, they’ll find the solutions,” replied Allegri.

Cristian Chivu reiterates his belief that ‘people line up to throw rocks at Inter’ and ‘stir up drama’ only against them, despite going into the game with Roma as Serie A leaders.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

The Nerazzurri went into the break for international duty with a run of poor results, as the Derby della Madonnina defeat to Milan was followed by back to back 1-1 draws with Atalanta and Fiorentina.

This was called a crisis, because it cut their lead at the top of the table to just six points with eight rounds left to play.

Chivu feels Inter singled out for criticism

“Everyone is aware we have a very tough final stretch of the season, where we must be ready, competitive, and do our best,” said Chivu in today’s press conference.

You can read the rest of his comments here.

“The league is a marathon race, and I say a streak of 18 games with 14 victories, three draws and one defeat is setting a very good rhythm.

“Some drama is only stirred up for a draw at Inter, but not for any other club. This is how a season goes. We wanted more, but we’ll take what we have earned so far, because we are top of the table and have surpassed expectations.”

Chivu went back to the controversy over Alessandro Bastoni’s celebration as Pierre Kalulu was unfairly sent off for Juventus, and again tried to suggest Inter were being unfairly singled out in the media.

“I’ve never seen a trial by media like the one after the Juve game. As long as it’s Inter, people want to line us all up and throw rocks. When it’s incidents that go against us, nobody says anything.

“This is something you need to question yourselves about, because I cannot give you the answers. We know that historically in Italy whoever is at the top gets hated, but we represent a glorious club and have marvellous fans.”

When Chivu was asked about which referees and VAR officials should be assigned to Inter games, he was bemused.

“I am a coach, my focus is on trying to pick the best starting XI for every game. If I am meant to start thinking about the referee, VAR, assistant referees, that’s not my job, nor am I interested. If we start analysing everything else, we are chasing ghosts and afraid of everything. I trust good common sense, so my only worry is my team.”

Roma have also been stuttering lately and dropped down to fifth place in the Serie A standings.

“Gian Piero Gasperini is a great coach who managed to impose his identity on Roma ahead of all expectations. There are eight games to go, but the most important is always the next one up.

“We must show belief and intensity, accept what Roma propose on the pitch, because it is never easy against one of Gasperini’s sides. We need courage and the right ambition to take a complicated result home,” continued Chivu.

The good news is that Lautaro Martinez looks ready for his comeback, having missed out since the first leg of the Champions League play-off with Bodo/Glimt in early February.

“Every individual player is crucial for us, whether it’s Lautaro Martinez, Luis Henrique or Andy Diouf. They all know what support they can give to the team and how important it is to have them all ready, both physically and mentally,” assured the Inter coach.

Cristian Chivu hints Alessandro Bastoni could leave Inter and Italy for Barcelona after the World Cup controversy. ‘I’m sure he will give over 100 per cent for us, whether it’s for two months or a couple of years.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The break for international duty saw many Inter players go off to represent their countries, but five returned with the deep disappointment of failing to book Italy’s ticket to the World Cup.

In particular, Bastoni was lambasted in the media and by fans for his red card in the play-off final to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Chivu tries to get Bastoni back on his feet

“I am dealing with great champions, above all on a human level, who have always shown they can get back on their feet after bitter blows,” insisted Chivu in his press conference.

“They learned that being part of a group in this squad means every now and then you stumble and don’t reach your objective, what counts is character, how you react and what you do for your teammates, respect for a club that represents the love of the fans.

“The supporters too know that disappointment is part of the game. I am not worried, because in these eight months they showed that this is a group of real men who I can trust.”

Bastoni had already been jeered by fans of other clubs in every game since admitting he simulated to get Pierre Kalulu sent off for Juventus, and urged the Federation to drop him from the Italy squad.

The costly red card against Bosnia therefore only added fuel to the fire.

“They all learned from the errors of the past and what matters is who we are today, and we always lift our heads up. I am talking about Bastoni here too, because when I last saw him, he was on crutches, and then was training with the Nazionale three days later,” said Chivu.

“These players accept all criticism, despite the difficult moments. When it comes to Bastoni, I know that football is lacking in gratitude, that people are always quick to point the finger of blame, to seek out things that have nothing to do with Alessandro’s true nature and values.

“What matters in football is respect for teammates, the work that you do, and what you are as a person. He is sad about what happened, but pleased to receive the support of his teammates both in the Nazionale and at Inter.

“He stepped up in a difficult moment and gave all he had to represent his country, trying to secure the dream of the Italian fans. Despite being nowhere near fully fit, as a man of sport, he recognised what it means and took responsibility.

“His teammates showed love and respect, because they know that despite not being in perfect condition, you did your bit.”

Does the coach have any advice for Bastoni?

“I just have to help him feel calm and confident. I cannot control the future or what he might do, but I know he is very happy to be part of this squad. His future is up to him to decide, just like all of us are responsible for our choices, but while he is here, I’m sure he will give over 100 per cent for us, whether it’s for two months or a couple of years.

“I’d be happy if he did stay, and if I stayed, because football is all about uncertainty. Whatever he decides to do, I am convinced the world of football will continue to enjoy a player of great quality.”

Not just Bastoni, but also Federico Dimarco and Francesco Pio Esposito were criticised for their performances for Italy.

“It isn’t the fault of the Inter players if the Nazionale failed. You can win or lose games, but you give your best and do your duty. I asked Pio if he wanted to take the penalty and he said yes. That’s enough in my mind to take on the responsibility, even if young and in such an important game.

“He will miss many more penalties in his career, I’m sure, but the important thing is to have courage and step up. It’s a good sign for us and for the Nazionale that Pio felt ready to take that responsibility.”

Gian Piero Gasperini gives important Roma injury updates ahead of the trip to Inter, is vague about his future, and warns they are ‘into the final sprint, so let’s get pedalling hard.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

The injury crisis drags on, as Wesley picked up a muscular problem with Brazil and will be out for a month, joining Manu Kone, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson on the treatment table.

“The good news is that Matias Soulé has recovered and trained with the squad,” revealed Gasperini in his press conference.

“He’s been out for a long time, but over the last week he started to look like himself again. Wesley and Koné clearly are not ready tomorrow, but they are both feeling more positive than after the initial diagnosis.

“Without Wesley, either Devyne Rensch or Kostas Tsimikas can play there. Angelino is also improving, although he is still not entirely ready after such a long period out of action.”

Gasperini gives view of Italian football

Italy failed to reach the World Cup for a third consecutive edition, so as the last coach to win silverware when Atalanta took the Europa League, does Gasperini have any advice?

“It is certainly not a single issue problem. The entire system isn’t working, yet there are so many kids who play football, so there is talent to choose from. We must all face up to the problem, including on a social level. It’s not cyclical, it’s a structural issue.

“This is much more important than any individual coach. I don’t think we’ve suddenly forgotten how to play football in Italy, especially with the glorious past this nation had in the sport. It’s the system.”

Roma slipped down the Serie A standings with one point from three rounds and were eliminated from the Europa League by Bologna, but did get back on track with a slender 1-0 victory over Lecce.

“The team did play well in the last few games, with good fitness levels and mentality, but they didn’t always lead to victories. The two Europa League games with Bologna were not exactly lucky for us,” added Gasperini.

“The fact remains, we are in the final sprint, so let’s tighten up the straps and get pedalling hard. We’re at a stage now where there’s less and less margin for error.”

There were reports of tension behind the scenes between the coach, directors Ricky Massara and Claudio Ranieri. Do they still share the same vision?

“We haven’t had recent meetings, as we are concentrated on the league. It’s the final sprint and we are up there, so we have to be totally focused,” shrugged Gasperini, rather avoiding the question.

“Look, we all hope to qualify for the Champions League, above all for the economic boost for the club. We are already working for next season, but it’s evident that the problems of the past are weighing on the directors in the present.”

This is only his first season at the helm, so Gasperini had been hoping to lay the foundations at Roma for what is a very different idea of football to its past.

“We’ll see where we are at the end of the season, but for now I can say that I am very pleased with how things are going. I’m happy about the rapport with the squad and that a big part of the fanbase has faith in me. The team always has the priority above everything else.

“I have an honest and open rapport with the club. I try to bring my ideas to satisfy the requests of the club. It is a fantastic experience for me, clearly there are also some difficulties, but my objective has always been to improve the team.

“Football gives valuable life lessons, it teaches you to lose and to not get ahead of yourself. The most important thing is to always want to keep improving.”

Some summer signings were so poor that they were already released, while he confessed that he “certainly expected more” from January arrival Bryan Zaragoza.

“We expected him to accelerate, but it’s never easy in January, so we hope he can start now to bring what we know he can to the team.”

Gasperini was asked if he will be the Roma coach next season.

“Well I certainly hope so!” he laughed. “Meanwhile, we’re playing against Inter. Roma are a good team, not to be dismantled, but to be strengthened. I heard some criticism that with this squad we’ll manage at best fifth or sixth place, but watch out, because some might only get 11^th or 12^th place too.”

With Italy needing to reboot yet again, players like Davide Bartesaghi, Luca Koleosho and Giovanni Leoni are ready to step into the senior squad, but Federico Chiesa might’ve had his last chance.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The Nazionale is at a crossroads after an unprecedented failure to qualify for three consecutive editions of the World Cup.

A new coach is yet to be chosen following the departure of Gennaro Gattuso, but whoever takes over will have the task of bringing a fresh generation into the Italy shirt.

Italy hope next generation can revive fortunes

Some players are already impressing at Under-21 level and getting regular club football too, like Milan full-back Bartesaghi, Fiorentina midfielder Cher Ndour, Paris FC winger Koleosho and Atalanta’s Honest Ahanor, while Brentford right-back Michael Kayode has graduated beyond the Azzurrini.

Liverpool defender Leoni and Milan-owned Francesco Camarda were showing immense promise before their injuries cut this season painfully short.

Others showed great potential only to stall, and are no longer that young, such as Nicolò Zaniolo, Tottenham’s Destiny Udogie, struggling Torino midfielder Casadei, Milan’s 26-year-old Matteo Gabbia, and Fiorentina midfielder Nicolò Fagioli.

Even Antonio Vergara, who suddenly exploded onto the scene at Napoli during an injury crisis that left Antonio Conte no other alternatives but to play him, made his Serie A debut at nearly 23.

With the new generation, out goes the old, as Leonardo Spinazzola and Matteo Politano are likely at the end of the road for the Nazionale, especially if the 3-5-2 formation remains.

Chiesa may well have burned his final bridge by repeatedly rejecting the Italy calls from Gattuso and, unlike Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Mattia Zaccagni and Guglielmo Vicario, he went straight back to Liverpool after failing a fitness test rather than stick around to be a part of this experience.

Set to turn 29 in October and with injury problems now effectively chronic in nature, nobody can genuinely rely on Chiesa for the future of the Nazionale.

There are reports Lazio have decided not to offer Toma Basic a new contract after all, despite previously seeming to agree a deal until 2030, so he’ll leave for free.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The midfielder is one of several players whose contracts are running down at the Stadio Olimpico, but the club is pulling the purse strings tight and trying to lower the wage bill.

That means quite a few of them are going to be allowed to just walk away at the end of the season.

Lazio cool on Basic idea

Basic had been the one most likely to sign an extension, with multiple rumours an agreement until June 2030 had been worked out with the salary at €2.5m per season.

However, LaLazioSiamoNoi report that the club hierarchy changed their minds and are now ready to let the 29-year-old’s deal expire on June 30.

An injury in February saw him drop out of the squad and that lost the momentum he was building under coach Maurizio Sarri.

Basic joined Lazio in 2021 from Girondins de Bordeaux for €7.1m and so far this season had made 17 competitive appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

An audacious name has been suggested for the Italy job next summer, because Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City and has a love for Italian football.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to leave the role after failing to secure World Cup qualification, after FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gigi Buffon both tended their resignations today.

The names mentioned as potential candidates are current Milan boss Max Allegri, plus former Azzurri coaches Roberto Mancini and Antonio Conte, who are at Al-Sadd and Napoli respectively.

Guardiola dream for the Nazionale

An intriguing alternative was put forward by the Gazzetta dello Sport, specifically that of Guardiola, who is likely to walk away from Manchester City at the end of the season.

The Spaniard has been in that job since 2016, before that winning silverware with Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

It would be an interesting challenge for a coach with a very specific style of football that is in many ways the antithesis of Calcio tradition.

However, that doesn’t mean Guardiola is a stranger to Italy, far from it.

He played for two Serie A clubs, Brescia and Roma, still speaks excellent Italian, and regularly returns to these shores as a tourist.

Guardiola is also full of praise for several Italian coaches, such as Gian Piero Gasperini of Roma and Lazio’s Maurizio Sarri.

The last time Italy had a foreign CT was Helenio Herrera, but that was sharing the role with Giulio Valcareggi for only four games in the 1960s.

If Carlo Ancelotti can leave Real Madrid to take on the Brazil job, why not Guardiola in charge of the Azzurri?

Fabio Capello has urged Gennaro Gattuso to ‘wait for the next two games’ before deciding if he will quit as Italy coach. ‘We paid the price for an individual player error.’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup has seen an inevitable run of resignations at the top of Italian football, starting with FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gianluigi Buffon.

Gattuso is widely expected to follow suit, but former England and Russia national team manager Capello is encouraging him to postpone that decision until June.

Capello would like to see more of Gattuso

“I would wait for the next two games before making any decision on Gattuso,” Capello told Sky Sport Italia.

“Let us not forget he took over the team with the qualifying campaign already begun under Luciano Spalletti, and he managed to bring character and determination to the side.

“Unfortunately, and it is sad to say this, but we paid the price for an individual player error that was elementary, otherwise we probably would’ve taken home the result.”

Italy were leading 1-0 in the World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for an ill-timed lunge.

When down to 10 men for over an hour, they scraped a 1-1 draw after extra time, losing the penalty shoot-out.

Gattuso had only eight games in charge for Italy, overseeing six victories, one defeat, and one draw with loss on penalties.

There are several names being mentioned to take over from Gattuso, including Antonio Conte and Roberto Mancini, who had the job before.

“We’ll have to see not just what they won in the past, but also the way that some of them left the role. There are many things to be evaluated here,” warned Capello.

Buffon confessed he wanted to resign on the night in Zenica, but was asked to stall for time by Gravina.

“Gigi is very direct and is not someone who will lead you down the garden path. As they didn’t achieve their objective, he stood up and handed in his resignation. That is to be respected.”

As different names are put forward to take over from Gabriele Gravina as FIGC President, a big problem becomes self-evident in Italian football.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

Gravina has tended his resignation as President of the Italian Football Federation following the third consecutive failure to qualify for a World Cup.

New elections will be held on June 22 to find his replacement, ending a tenure that had lasted since October 2018, the wake of the first time the Azzurri lost the play-offs.

Italy coach will be chosen by new FIGC President

Gravina is 72 years old, and has been in and around Italian football for several decades, as he was also the Lega Pro President from 2015 to 2018.

He replaced Carlo Tavecchio, who died in January 2023 at the age of 79.

The President of the Italian Coaches Association (AIAC) Renzo Ulivieri confessed he had wanted Gravina to remain at the helm, and he is just turned 85.

The favourite to take over as FIGC President is Giovanni Malagò, who is a sprightly 67 and has been President of the CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) since 2013.

Another likely option is current Lega Nazionale Dilettanti (Amateur League) President Giancarlo Abete, who will be 76 in August.

Only today, Italy legend Gianni Rivera announced he was putting his name forward as a candidate to lead the FIGC, and he is 82 years old.

Dusan Vlahovic will be a free agent on July 1 unless he agrees a new contract with Juventus, but there are two big problems stalling negotiations.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The striker recently returned from a long injury lay-off and remains eager to extend his stay in Turin, despite no shortage of other clubs interested in his services.

Those include Milan, where he’d reunite with Max Allegri, Arsenal and potentially also teams in Spain.

What Vlahovic wants from Juventus

According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, initial talks are on the right track, but there are still some significant blockages in the process, with another meeting planned next week.

It is hoped they can do a deal for a reduced salary of €6-7m per season from the current €12m including add-ons.

The biggest issue seems to be that agent Darko Ristic wants a significant commission if he is to organise this contract, seeing as he would earn a lot more if shopping Vlahovic to other clubs.

Juventus hope that the arrival of father Milos Vlahovic at the negotiating table will help smooth things over and reach a compromise.

Lega Serie A President Ezio Maria Simonelli warns the top flight clubs ‘must have a primary role’ in reforms after Italy’s World Cup flop and Gabriele Gravina’s resignation.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The failure to beat Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off and therefore miss a third consecutive edition of the World Cup is prompting an inevitable earthquake in the Italian football authorities.

Federation President Gravina resigned today, followed by Italy delegation chief Gigi Buffon, and coach Gennaro Gattuso is expected to follow.

An election has been scheduled for June 22 to appoint a new FIGC President, and the 274 delegates will vote with a system that gives Serie A 18 per cent of the power in this decision.

There is also 6 per cent to Serie B, 12 per cent Lega Pro, 34 per cent for the Amateur League (LND), 20 per cent the Players’ Association, and 10 per cent the Coaches’ Association.

Lega Serie A wants to take charge

“As the Lega Serie A, we must have a primary role, acting as a guide for all the teams,” Simonelli told reporters.

“Like all fans, we are disappointed, but we need to work on reforms, youth, reinforcing the governance and patrimony of the clubs, so we can get back to the past glories.”

The Lega Serie A had fought the main reform proposed by Gravina, which was to reduce the top flight from 20 clubs to 18.

Several names have been mentioned to become the new FIGC President, but the favourite would seem to be ex-CONI (Italian Olympic Committee) chief Giovanni Malagò.

“We didn’t even talk about names during the meeting,” insisted the Lega Serie A President.

Gabriele Gravina resigned as FIGC President today and assured it was ‘a personal, convinced and carefully meditated’ decision after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The head of the Federation had been expected to hand in his resignation straight after the penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday night, but he waited until today’s emergency meeting of the Italian football authorities.

He was swiftly followed by delegation chief Gigi Buffon, and coach Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to follow, as the failure to reach a third consecutive World Cup inevitably sparks an earthquake in Calcio.

Gravina explains resignation

“After many years, there is a feeling of sadness, but also of calm,” Gravina told reporters as he left the Federation headquarters.

“I have to thank all the elements of the Federation, who again today showed great support, great respect, affection, and also insisted that I should continue, but I made my decision, it was a personal and carefully meditated one.

“You will be able to read the rest in a statement. We’ll see each other over the next few days, Happy Easter to everyone.”

Gravina had been the FIGC President since October 2018.

There was also a great deal of confusion, as just minutes after the FIGC announced that a planned presentation to the Government would go ahead on April 8, the Commission for Sport instead confirmed that the event had been cancelled.

Elections will be held on June 22 to elect a new President of the Federation, and only after that will Italy likely choose a new coach too.

There are 274 delegates who choose the new President, with 18 per cent of the vote going to Serie A representatives, 6 per cent Serie B, 12 per cent Lega Pro, 34 per cent for the Amateur League (LND), 20 per cent the Players’ Association, and 10 per cent the Coaches’ Association.

There are growing reports that Al-Sadd tactician Roberto Mancini is confident he’ll be called back as Italy coach, especially if Giovanni Malagò becomes FIGC President.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The failure to qualify for a third consecutive edition of the World Cup is prompting a radical reshuffle of the authorities in Italian football, with Federation President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gigi Buffon tending their resignations today.

Gennaro Gattuso is widely expected to follow suit, so the search is on for both a new coach and a new President of the FIGC.

Mancini eager for Italy return

According to Calciomercato, figures close to Mancini say he is confident of being at the top of the list, especially if Malagò is chosen to lead the Federation.

Currently under contract with Al-Sadd after a brief experience as coach of the Saudi Arabia team, Mancini had won the EURO 2020 tournament during his spell with Italy.

That ran from 2018 to 2023, when he abruptly resigned just a couple of weeks before the EURO 2024 qualifying campaign began.

The presence of Malagò would be crucial, as he was President of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) when he had to take temporary control over the FIGC because it was unable to elect a new President in 2018.

Politician Ignazio La Russa has a revolutionary idea to revive the Italy squad. ‘If Brazil can hire Carlo Ancelotti, why can’t we get a foreign coach like Jose Mourinho?’

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The failure to qualify for the third consecutive World Cup means that there will be a transformation of the Nazionale behind the scenes.

We have already seen FIGC President Gabriele Gravina and delegation chief Gigi Buffon hand in their resignation, with Gennaro Gattuso widely expected to follow suit.

Mourinho thrown into mix for Italy coach

Now the search is on for who will start the new era of the Italy squad, with names like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri, Roberto Mancini and Simone Inzaghi all mentioned.

“If Brazil can hire a great and foreign coach like Ancelotti, why can’t we get someone like Mourinho?” asked politician and Inter supporter Ignazio La Russa in the Corriere della Sera newspaper.

Mourinho has been linked with the Portugal job over the years, but is currently the coach of Benfica, having split with Fenerbahce in August 2025.

He had two experiences in Serie A with Inter and Roma, but was sacked from the latter role in January 2024.

La Russa was extremely critical of the ‘incredible’ failure to get past Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-offs, losing on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

The fact they were down to 10 men for much of it due to Alessandro Bastoni’s red card was also blamed on Gattuso.

“How can you let a youngster like Pio Esposito take the first penalty, when he doesn’t even take them for Inter? And why was Bastoni played out of position to accommodate Calafiori in centre-left of defence? This in turn penalised Dimarco on the same flank.”

Atletico Madrid have agreed personal terms with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, claims transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano, with a reported €40m fee wanted for the Manchester United and Manchester City target.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

The Brazil international has gone from strength to strength since the move from Salernitana to Atalanta in 2022, as he was instrumental in the Europa League triumph, and sorely missed this season during an injury lay-off.

His contract only runs to June 2027, so for some time it has seemed inevitable that a sale would arrive this summer, when the player will mark his 27^th birthday.

Ederson expected to leave Atalanta

There is no shortage of interested clubs, as Inter and Juventus had seen offers rejected in the past, while Manchester United and Manchester City both remain ready to make a bid.

However, Romano claims that Ederson considers Atletico Madrid to be his favoured destination, and has already agreed personal terms.

The Colchoneros still need to work out a deal with Atalanta, but the contract situation means the fee is going to be no more than €35-40m.

These two clubs already did business several times in recent months, doing deals for Ademola Lookman, Giacomo Raspadori and Matteo Ruggeri.

The representatives of the Players’ Association (AIC) and Coaches’ Association (AIAC) express hope Gabriele Gravina’s resignation can finally spark reforms to revive the Italy squad.

• Read Football Italia Ad-Free and get access to Exclusive News – Free Trial – Click Here

Gravina handed in his resignation this afternoon during the emergency meeting, which was organised in the wake of Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup.

Coach Gennaro Gattuso and team manager Gigi Buffon are widely expected to follow suit, prompting a radical overhaul of the way Italian football is run, with elections for a new President of the Federation (FIGC) on June 22.

Meanwhile, Gravina will be heard in the Commission for Culture, Science and Instruction to give the Government an update on the health of Italian football.

Italy reforms expected after new election

“Finally there is talk about something we’ve been pushing for a long time, which is that Italians don’t get much playing time,” President of the Italian Players’ Association Umberto Calcagno told reporters outside the meeting.

“The Federation does not have the legal groundwork to impose a number of Italians on the field, so we hope politicians can study suitable norms to relaunch Italian football.”

Not everyone was entirely happy about Gravina’s resignation, even if it seemed inevitable after these failures.

“Gravina still has the trust and respect of the federal components, but we are aware of the difficult moment and that we must all roll our sleeves up. We’ve got to transform disappointment into positivity,” insisted Calcagno.

“Football is the biggest sport in Italy, but we are not able to get sufficient value out of all that we do. This is not a war against foreign players, as other countries with the same rules like Spain still manage to get homegrown players making up 60 per cent of the team.

“We must also teach football in a different way to kids, but ultimately the refinement of talent is not the job of the Federation, but of the clubs.”

Renzo Ulivieri, former Bologna coach and President of the Italian Coaches’ Association (AIAC) also commented that he was sad to see Gravina go.

“It was his personal decision, we expressed our solidarity, now we will try to start fresh with the elections on June 22. It is too early to say who will take over, the same goes for Gattuso and the Italy coach. If asked, we’ll give our opinion.

“It was a very sad meeting, because it’s the end of an era, but also the results were disappointing. We’ve been struggling since 2006, it’s not a new problem, so we’ll see what can be done.”