Sebastiano Esposito and Paul Mendy lead the Cagliari attack in a home Serie A match against Nicolò Zaniolo’s Udinese.
Saturday’s Serie A action begins at the Unipol Domus in Cagliari with the Rossoblu facing Udinese at 15:00 CET (14:00 BST).
Idrissi, Mazzitelli, Felici, Pavoletti, Borrelli and Liteta are unavailable for the home side, while Udinese must cope without the injured Zanoli, Ekkelenkamp and the suspended Kabasele.
Cagliari have a nine-point lead over the relegation zone, so they need one final push to secure mathematical survival.
The Sardinians have won two of the last five league matches.
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 05: Christian Kabasele (#27) of Udinese celebrates scoring a goal with teammate Nicolò Zaniolo (#10) during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Friuli on October 05, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Udinese have only lost once in their last five meetings and can technically still qualify for Europe, but they find themselves eight points behind Atalanta in seventh.
Cagliari vs. Udinese – confirmed line-ups
UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 05: Elia Caprile of Cagliari makes a save during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Friuli on October 05, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Matteo Moretto reports that ex-Juventus and Napoli director Cristiano Giuntoli has ‘already reached an agreement’ with Atalanta for next season.
Former Juventus CEO Giuntoli is set to become the new Atalanta sporting director.
Several sources have claimed that Giuntoli is the leading candidate to replace Tony D’Amico in 2026-27, but according to Moretto, the agreement between Giuntoli and La Dea is already finalised.
The Italian transfer expert reports that the two parties have finalised all the details and the agreement will be confirmed with an official statement in the coming days.
Juventus director Cristiano Giuntoli (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Giuntoli’s appointment means Atalanta’s sporting director, Tony D’Amico, will leave the club after four years.
D’Amico has been linked with Milan and Roma.
The Rossoneri were already interested in the 46-year-old last summer before ultimately appointing Igli Tare.
epa11702421 Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi (L) and Atalanta Sporting Director Tony d’Amico watch a training session of the team at the Bortolotti training center in Zingonia, Italy, 05 November 2024. Atalanta will face VFB Stuttgart in the UEFA Champions League on 06 November in Stuttgart. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA
Roma, however, are another possible destination, given that Gian Piero Gasperini has gained more power following Claudio Ranieri’s departure, which will also lead to Frederic Massara’s exit.
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri hints that he might pick an attacking trident for a Serie A match against Atalanta on Sunday, but Luka Modric’s return for the last game of the season is ‘nearly impossible.’
Milan are under growing pressure, having won only one of their last five games and scoring just one goal in the process.
Reports in Italy suggest that Santiago Gimenez could start against Atalanta at San Siro tomorrow, and Allegri discussed the matter at a pre-match press conference today.
Allegri drops Gimenez hint for Atalanta clash
“If Gimenez is there, there will be one or two players moving around him,” Allegri said via Milannews.
This means Allegri could choose three attacking players tomorrow rather than the usual 3-5-2 system: “We’ll see,” the coach said.
“We can’t change what we’ve done in these ten months. Tomorrow we begin a mini-season of three games,” Allegri continued.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“That’s how we have to look at it. We have a three-point lead. If we make it to the Champions League, we’ll go; if not, we won’t deserve to qualify. I’ll assess the starting line-up tomorrow, but I need everyone right now. Aside from Modric and Tomori, everyone else is available.
“The games last long, and substitutions in the last 30 minutes are decisive. Everyone will have to be involved in the game. We are in a decisive and important moment.
“It’s a decisive match tomorrow because three games remain. All energy must be focused towards tomorrow’s game. Then we’ll look at the table. We’ll have to play a tricky and difficult game at Genoa afterwards.”
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 22: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Parma Calcio 1913 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 22, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Modric was forced to undergo a cheekbone surgery two weeks ago following an injury against Juventus.
The Croatian star is training separately at Milanello, but Allegri practically ruled out his return to action for the last game of the season against Cagliari.
“Even if Modric always comes to Milanello to work, it’s nearly impossible that he’ll be on the pitch for the last match,” he said.
During the same press conference, Allegri insisted that he wants to remain at San Siro for as long as possible despite reports that his strained relationship with CEO Giorgio Furlani could lead to a summer departure.
“Whoever is at Milan must work for the club and defend a glorious DNA,” Allegri insisted.
“I’ve seen that in the directors, and I understand that Milan must always have the ambition to win. If Milan finish sixth, it means we deserved to finish sixth. The important thing is that everyone works for the club. Personal targets must be set aside. The collective goal is to qualify for the Champions League.”
Massimiliano Allegri insists he wants to ‘stay at Milan for as long as possible’ and thanks the Rossoneri fans for their support this season.
Milan have only won one of their last five league games, and their advantage over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to three points with three games remaining.
Tensions are running high at San Siro among Rossoneri supporters, who are preparing a protest against CEO Giorgio Furlani during tomorrow’s home game against Atalanta.
“We can only thank them for now. They’ve been supporting us since August 17, and the stadium has always been full,” Allegri said at a press conference via MilanNews.
“We’ve always felt their support, and they’ll do it tomorrow as well in a decisive moment of the season. We have a tricky match. We’ve had a good week of work, and we’ll have to face Atalanta as we try to return to winning, which we haven’t done at home in a while.
“We must do and not talk. Atalanta are an excellent team, and we’ll need an excellent performance to bring the result home.”
NAPLES, ITALY – APRIL 06: Massimiliano Allegri AC Milan head coach looks on before the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and AC Milan at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 06, 2026 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Rossoneri have scored only one goal in their last five matches, and tomorrow they’ll host Atalanta without the injured Luka Modric and the suspended Fikayo Tomori.
“I’m not worried; you have to look at things positively. Normally, after a defeat like the one against Sassuolo, one tends to see things more negatively,” Allegri said.
“The destiny is in our hands. What’s nice about football is that 90 minutes can change everything. That said, tomorrow we won’t be mathematically in or out of the Champions League.”
There have been several reports that Allegri might be leaving San Siro at the end of the season due to strained relations with Furlani. The Livorno-born coach is also among the candidates linked with the Italy job. Does he see himself as a national team coach or does he prefer day-to-day duties?
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, gestures during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“This is not a matter I’ve thought about. Right now, Milan are the most important thing, for the next games and for next season,” Allegri replied.
“We’ve worked with great attention and dedication for ten months. We must respect everyone who makes themselves available so we can perform at our best. I don’t think about anything else because my goal is to stay at Milan for as long as possible.”
Inter referee manager Giorgio Schenone was heard as a witness by Milan Prosecutor Maurizio Ascione on Friday, and further interrogations will be completed at the start of next week.
Referee scandal in Serie A: latest updates
Inter’s referee manager, Schenone, was heard by the Milan Prosecutor on Friday as part of a probe into alleged sports fraud, which involves five people under investigation, none of whom are from Serie A or Serie B clubs.
Former referee designator Gianluca Rocchi is among those under investigation on suspicion of having influenced VAR decisions during matches and of manipulating referee appointments.
In a wiretap from April 2025, Rocchi is heard telling VAR Supervisor Andrea Gervasoni, who is also under investigation: “They no longer want to see him [a referee] anymore.”
Corriere della Sera reports that the Nerazzurri referee manager did not receive questions regarding a meeting at San Siro on April 2, 2025, during which Rocchi is suspected of having chosen referees favoured by Inter for upcoming games against Bologna in Serie A and Milan in the second leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal.
Investigators are trying to understand whether Schenone conveyed Inter referees’ preferences to Rocchi.
Daniele Doveri was picked for the second leg of the Coppa Italia semifinal against Milan last season so that he would be shielded for the Final, which Inter didn’t even qualify for.
What Inter Referee Manager told Milan Prosecutor
Schenone, however, argued that he had always dealt exclusively with refereeing matters and that during the 2024-25 season, Inter had Dover as referee six times, practically the maximum possible in the competition.
Schenone, nor any other Inter member, is under investigation. The Nerazzurri referee manager was only heard as a witness.
AIA chief Gianluca Rocchi (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Corriere adds that there are no wiretaps involving Schiavone and Rocchi, but, on the other hand, Schenone heard several other wiretaps, mostly from spring 2025, involving Rocchi and VAR Supervisor Andrea Gervasoni and between Rocchi and Riccardo Pinzani, Rocchi’s former referee partner.
Former AIA President Antonio Zappi and new Referee Designator Dino Tommasi were also questioned on Friday, mostly about the activity in the VAR room in Lissone.
PISA, ITALY – MARCH 2: General view of the VAR monitor inside the Arena Garibaldi stadium in Pisa during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Bologna FC 1909 at Arena Garibaldi on March 2, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
According to the report, the Milan prosecutor will complete further hearings between Monday and Tuesday next week.
Rocchi, in the meantime, has once again informed prosecutors that he does not intend to answer the Prosecutor’s questions, exercising his right to remain silent.
José Mourinho insists Iran deserve to play at the World Cup, which Portugal can win, and feels Zinedine Zidane embodied the concept of elegance: ‘Marco Materazzi might get mad at me…’
Former Inter and Roma coach Mourinho gave a long interview to Sport Week, discussing his life and career.
Ex-Roma star Nicolò Zaniolo once described Mou as a ‘master’, saying the Portuguese tactician could almost perfectly predict what would happen during matches.
Mourinho predicted Zaniolo’s winning goal in Conference League Final
“Almost,” Mou replied, smiling.
“One thing I had predicted and actually happened was that Zaniolo would score the decisive goal in the Conference League Final between my Roma side and Feyenoord.”
During the same interview, Mourinho admitted that he’d leave Inter for Real Madrid again and was then asked to name a player who “embodies the concept of elegance.”
“The first name that comes to mind is Zinedine Zidane,” Mourinho said.
“Marco Materazzi might get mad at me for saying it, but watching Zizou play was pure beauty.”
When asked about his favourite city as a coach, Mou replied: “The most important thing is to be with the people I love. It could even be the Sahara Desert. To me, anyway, the most beautiful city in the world is Rome.”
Lastly, the Benfica tactician spoke about the upcoming World Cup as well: “Portugal can do anything. They have an incredible generation. They won the Nations League a year ago. We won the Euros in 2016, and this generation is technically superior to that team. Of course, there is Carletto Ancelotti’s Brazil, Argentina, but Portugal can win this World Cup.”
Roma coach Jose Mourinho reacts from the technical area during the Italian Serie A football match between Juventus and Roma at the Allianz Stadium in Turin, on December 30, 2023. (Photo by Isabella BONOTTO / AFP) (Photo by ISABELLA BONOTTO/AFP via Getty Images)
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed Iran’s participation in the competition, yet there are still doubts on whether they’ll actually take part in the tournament due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Donald Trump’s Special Envoy, Paolo Zampolli, has been reiterating that Italy should replace Iran if they don’t show up for the World Cup in June.
“One thing is politics, one is sport,” Mourinho concluded.
“The Iranian players who have qualified for the World Cup, which will involve too many teams, deserve to play it.”
As the Serie A season enters its final weeks, there is still a lot to play for. The league winners might be known, but the race for the Champions League places is heating up.
Inter are now guaranteed to finish top of the table after their 2-0 victory against Parma, which clinched the Scudetto. That leaves three qualification spots remaining, but five teams are all pushing for them.
Who, though, has the best chance of finishing in the top four? Here’s a closer look at the matches each team in contention has left, and who is the most likely to qualify.
Napoli – 70 points
Antonio Conte’s men might have fallen short of defending their status as champions, but they look all but certain to qualify for the Champions League. A goalless draw against Como means that they only need one win and one draw from their three remaining games to guarantee a top-four finish.
Napoli face ninth-placed Bologna in their next match, but their away fixture against struggling Pisa should be their best chance of a victory. They then play Udinese in their final match, although that could be a potential slip-up that teams can capitalise on, as I Friulani emerged as 1-0 victors when the two sides met in December 2025.
Milan – 67 points
SASSUOLO, ITALY – MAY 03: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and AC Milan at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on May 03, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
A victory against Sassuolo would have put Milan on the brink of qualification, but a defeat has put the pressure on. Now only three points ahead of fifth-placed Roma, the Rossoneri need to bounce back from their latest setback, and quickly.
Fortunately, while their next match against Atalanta will be difficult, the final two matches of the season are much more straightforward. Milan have a trip to Genoa on May 17, before they then host Cagliari at the San Siro in their final game. Both teams lie in the bottom half of the table, and while Genoa did manage a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture against Milan back in January, the 19-time champions will still be confident in their chances.
Juventus – 65 points
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 19: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Bologna FC 1909 at Allianz Stadium on April 19, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Milan’s failure to beat Sassuolo might have been punished had Juventus beaten Verona. But, in spite of that 1-1 draw, La Vecchia Signora should feel the most optimistic. While they are only one point ahead of Roma, Luciano Spalletti’s side now only play teams in the bottom half of the table.
Lecce could be a potential mistake waiting to happen, but their win against Pisa was their only win in seven. Juve will also be heavy favourites in their matches against Fiorentina and Torino.
Because Juventus is the team in Serie A with the biggest global following, fans across the world will be making the most of betting bonuses, such as a 1win promo code for India readers, to back Juve to qualify for the Champions League. They have a lot going in their favour, but only time will tell if they manage to get over the line.
Roma – 64 points
Roma might have lost four more games than Como, but the Giallorossi still find themselves among the chasing pack for Champions League football. It’s been seven seasons since they last played in the competition, but if things go their way, that streak might come to an end.
A win against Fiorentina has put them in fifth, but there’s no question that their route to the top four is more difficult than their rivals. They face Parma away from home next before the Derby della Capitale against Lazio.
Nevertheless, Roma have not lost to their rivals since January 2024 and will be confident of extending that run as they pursue European football. If the teams above them drop more points, then it could all come down to their final match of the season against Verona on May 24.
Como – 62 points
A win against Napoli would have put Como in control of their bid for Champions League football. Now, I Lariani need to win the maximum nine points from their last three games and hope that other teams can do them a favour if they are to have any chance.
Cesc Fabregas – who recently ruled out a move to Chelsea – has the team with sufficient quality to win three matches on the spin, and their remaining fixtures also lend themselves to potential success. They face bottom-three sides Verona and Cremonese, either side of a home fixture against 12th-placed Parma, whom they have not lost to since 2023 in Serie B. Nevertheless, the Lombardy-based club has a mountain to climb to qualify for the Champions League.
Both Lazio and Inter are likely to make squad rotations in their Serie A match today, as they prepare for next week’s Coppa Italia Final, but the Nerazzurri captain, Lautaro Martinez, is still expected to start.
It kicks off at 18:00 CET (17:00 BST) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
It’s Inter’s first game as defending Serie A champions, as the Nerazzurri secured the Scudetto with three games to spare last week.
Lazio are four points below a Conference League placement, but their priority remains next Wednesday’s Coppa Italia Final, also against the Nerazzurri.
Francesco Pio Esposito and Hakan Calhanoglu are unavailable for Inter, but while the Italian striker is expected to recover in time for next week’s Final, Calhanoglu is not likely to make it.
Lazio get to this match without the injured Samuel Gigot, Ivan Provedel, Alessio Furlanetto, Danilo Cataldi, Elseid Hysaj and their captain Mattia Zaccagni.
As reported by Gazzetta, Italy international Davide Frattesi is set to make a rare start for Inter in the middle of the park, so Nicolò Barella will rest.
Marcus Thuram is also expected to start on the bench, making room for Ange-Yoan Bonny and Lautaro Martinez up front.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale Milano runs with the ball during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lazio vs. Inter – probable line-ups
The match will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 15: Daniel Maldini of Lazio gestures during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on March 15, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Lazio vs. Inter – where to watch on TV
Inter (3-5-2):Martinez Jo.; Bisseck, Acerbi, Bastoni; Darmian, Sucic, Frattesi, Mkhitaryan, Carlos Augusto; Lautaro Martinez, Bonny.
Dusan Vlahovic is set to return to the Juventus starting XI for the first time in over five months as the Bianconeri seek a win against a Lecce side that is fighting for survival.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 BST) at the Stadio Via Del Mare in Lecce.
The home side have a four-point advantage over the relegation zone, so a win would almost certainly allow them to secure survival, while Juventus sit fourth in the standings, but their lead over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to just one point following back-to-back draws against Milan and Hellas Verona.
The Bianconeri have travelled to Lecce without the injured Arkadiusz Milik and Juan Cabal.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Serbia international Vlahovic is expected to start his first game since November 29, as reported by Sky Sport and Gazzetta.
Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceiçao will complete the Old Lady’s attack.
Medon Berisha, Kialonda Gaspar, Riccardo Sottil and Sadik Fofana are unavailable for Lecce, where Walid Cheddira is the favourite over Nikola Stulic for a starting spot as a lone striker.
LECCE, ITALY – APRIL 20: Walid CHeddira of US Lecce competes for the ball with Nicolò Fagioli of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between US Lecce and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Via del Mare on April 20, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Lecce vs. Juventus – where to watch on TV
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2, DAZN and HBO Max in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a liveblog.
The transfer market is at risk without Champions. Juve, there’s Vlahovic.
Test for double
Double challenge Inter: only Lazio towards the cup
Gimenez shows up
No goals in Serie A for a year, Allegri is tempted.
Simeone’s energy again, and Toro turn Sassuolo around
Corriere dello Sport
Test for the cup
Two challenges in five days
Today’s game (18:00) is the aperitif for the final
Masked Lazio-Inter: Wednesday’s trophy only matters
Sarri is still in the race for the 7th spot, but will rest the big players. Zaccagni injured. Chivu’s first game as defending champion. Lautaro to partner with Bonny.
Juve, Lucio’s rules
‘Take our own responsibilities after the pain felt against Verona. We must react. Future? Many will stay, but we need more.’ Vlahovic returns to the starting XI after 160 days.
New directors: D’Amico and Giuntoli, what an intrigue
Napoli prepare for double celebration
Frosinone in Serie A, play-out for Bari
Tuttosport
D’Aversa’s pride. Toro, derby shake
Lecce, 20:45
Juve, you put it all on the line
Champions, UEFA millions, the breakeven, and appeal on the market
The Bianconeri can make no more mistakes to defend the fourth spot from the comebacks of Romo and Como. Spalletti’s project of building a winning team, based on Yildiz, is also at risk. Vlahovic is ready. The coach: ‘Many will stay, but we need reinforcements.’
Lazio and Inter, the Cup in the head
Lautaro set to start to test his shape. Chivu is looking for the goal record. Many people in Brescia say goodbye to Beccalossi.
Frosinone, welcome back to Serie A! Bari to the playout
The injured Francesco Pio Esposito and Hakan Calhanoglu have not made the trip to Rome, where their Inter side will visit Lazio on Saturday.
Italy international Pio Esposito and Turkey star Calhanoglu will not be available for Inter in their away game at Lazio on Saturday. As reported by Sky Sport Italia (via Calciomercato.com), neither player has made the trip to Rome.
Pio Esposito and Calhanoglu to miss Lazio vs. Inter
Pio Esposito is dealing with back pain, and Inter coach Cristian Chivu has decided to rest him ahead of next week’s Coppa Italia Final, also against Lazio.
MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 28: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second from the penalty spot goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Genoa CFC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on February 28, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On the other hand, Brazilian winger Luis Henrique has recovered from an injury and will be available at the Stadio Olimpico tomorrow.
Inter have already won the Serie A title with three games to spare, while Lazio are four points below a Conference League placement.
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter warms up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on March 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Nerazzurri and Biancocelesti will meet again in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.
The second Global State of Football report shows that Fiorentina, Atalanta and Napoli were the most financially stable Serie A clubs in 2024-25, while Gian Piero Gasperini was the most efficient coach in Italy’s top flight.
The study by world-leading AI technology PLAIER and the University of St. Gallen evaluated 226 clubs across 14 leagues in the 2024-25 season, assessing factors including squad quality, sporting director performance, coaching effectiveness, and financial stability.
The report not only highlights which clubs succeeded but also how they achieved success and the financial cost.
Fiorentina the most financially stable club in Serie A
FLORENCE, ITALY – APRIL 26: General view inside the stadium Artemio Franchi during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and US Sassuolo Calcio at Artemio Franchi on April 26, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina emerged as the most financially stable club in Serie A, posting a 72% eqity ratio, followed by Atalanta and Napoli, second and third respectively.
Como resulted in the most efficient sports department, delivering the strongest results relative to the resources at its disposal. Napoli, who won the title last season, ranked third, while runners-up Inter placed 14th.
At the other end of the scale, Parma registered the weakest sporting department performance domestically, failing to translate their financial investments into on-pitch results entirely.
Last season, Parma secured survival under Cristian Chivu on the final matchday, but have had a quieter 2025-26 campaign under Carlos Cuesta, securing survival with several games to spare.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, now at Roma, was identified as the coach most likely to select players and tactical line-ups capable of delivering positive outcomes in 2024-25.
epa11698034 AC Monza’s coach Alessandro Nesta during the Italian Serie A soccer match between AC Monza and AC Milan at U-Power Stadium in Monza, Italy, 02 November 2024. EPA-EFE/ROBERTO BREGANI
Conversely, Monza coaches Alessandro Nesta and Salvatore Bocchetti, ranked lowest for team selection efficiency, with Milan sitting as the second-worst side in Italy on this metric under Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceiçao.
Italy legend Alessandro Altobelli is ‘devastated’ to miss the funeral of his best friend, Evaristo Beccalossi, as he is stuck in Kuwait with no flights available to return to Italy.
His funeral is being held today in his hometown of Brescia, with many other Nerazzurri legends present, including Beppe Bergomi.
Former Inter and Italy star Altobelli, a 1982 Italy World Cup winner, was one of Beccalossi’s closest friends but could not attend his beloved friend’s funeral.
Altobelli, who lives in Kuwait and works as a Serie A pundit for a local TV station, has been forced to miss Beccalossi’s funeral due to the lack of flights from the Middle East to Europe.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Evaristo Beccalossi attends The Best FIFA Football Awards 2019 at the Teatro Alla Scala on September 23, 2019 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
“There are no flights. It had already taken me two days to return here [to Kuwait]. I spent eight hours in Istanbul during a layover, trying to rest on a chair. Now I’m stranded, and there are no solutions.
“He [Beccalossi] was my best friend,” concluded Altobelli.
“He was a champion and a second father to my sons. With him, a part of him has died too.”
Beccalossi and Altobelli together won the 1979-80 Serie A title with Inter.
Altobelli is the second-best scorer in the Nerazzurri’s history with 209 goals.
Cesc Fabregas reveals he might call up Italian midfielder Riccardo Cassano, 16, for Como’s away game at Hellas Verona on Sunday: ‘I can’t say he’s ready, but he understands the type of football we want to play here.’
Como U17 midfielder Cassano may be part of the senior squad travelling to Verona for a Serie A match on Sunday.
Fabregas: Cassano ‘understands the type of football’ Como play
Nevertheless, Como have some promising Italian players in their youth squad, and one of them could travel with the first team over the weekend.
“I’m really happy. When we use all these players, it seems we create value. I mostly watch U17 and Primavera teams. If possible, Cassano of U17 will come with us,” Fabregas said at a press conference on Friday via TMW.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – APRIL 17: Cesc Fabregas, Head Coach of Como 1907, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Como 1907 at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on April 17, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He already trained with us last week, and I really liked it. He gave me great satisfaction. He is a playmaker. Yesterday, he played with us while [Maxi] Perrone broke his nose. The U17 have qualified for the play-off, but if I can take him with us, I’ll do it. I can’t say he’s ready, but he understands the type of football we want to play here. So many young players train with us during the week, but when we see a player who stands out, we are open. He is even from Como.”
Cassano, 16, is a central midfielder who has provided four assists in 25 games across all competitions with the Como U17 team this term.
Verona are already relegated, but held Como’s rivals Juventus to a 1-1 away draw last week.
“There is dignity. Nobody wants to lose games. You might be sad and disappointed because you got relegated, but nobody gives anything away,” Fabregas noted.
“They launched counterattacks while playing with a low block against Juventus, then defended for the rest of the game. We must be prepared for a similar match. Today, the most difficult thing is to score against a low block. We must have the desire to score, be proactive, and not go onto the field thinking it will be easy.
“I don’t really like to play at 12:30. We eat three hours earlier,” Fabregas concluded.
“When we play at 15:00 [CET], we have an activation session in the morning: players do stretching and mobility work, then two-against-two, and then they eat and rest. When the match is in the evening, they rest.”
Multiple sources in Italy claim that the futures of Massimiliano Allegri and Igli Tare at Milan are uncertain, regardless of whether the Rossoneri qualify for the Champions League.
Allegri and Tare’s uncertain Milan future
Milan could be set for another summer of big changes as the futures of coach Allegri and director Tare are uncertain.
Milan expert Carlo Pellegatti has reported that Allegri may not stay at San Siro beyond the summer due to strained relations with the club’s CEO, Giorgio Furlani.
Allegri’s contract expires in June 2027, but the deal includes an automatic extension to 2028 if the Rossoneri qualify for the Champions League this season.
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Calciomercato.com also reports that the strained relationship with Furlani could lead to Allegri’s departure, regardless of Champions League qualification.
According to the report, Allegri and Furlani have already met several times in recent weeks to discuss the club’s long-term plans, but apparently, the pair don’t share the same view.
VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
According to the report, Atalanta’s Tony D’Amico remains on Milan’s target after last summer’s interest, but La Dea is still reluctant to part ways with their sporting director.
Eusebio Di Francesco confirms Roma fans have sent him messages hoping to see his Lecce side beat Juventus: ‘They don’t even need to ask me…’
Lecce are preparing to host Juventus at the Stadio Via Del Mare on Saturday.
It’s a crucial fixture for both sides as the Giallorossi have a four-point lead over 18th-placed Cremonese, while Juventus have an advantage of just one point over fifth-placed Roma.
Di Francesco, a former Roma coach, has admitted that some of his friends and Roma fans in the capital have been texting him in recent days, hoping to boost Lecce’s motivation against the Old Lady.
Di Francesco: ‘Fundamental’ for Lecce to beat Juventus
“[They’ve texted] As always, but they first have to look to themselves,” Di Francesco told Sky Sport, smiling.
“They don’t even need to ask me because, for us, it is fundamental to take the three points home.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Eusebio Di Francesco, Head Coach of US Lecce, gestures to his players during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Lecce at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Lecce are unbeaten in their last three league matches and grabbed a crucial win against already-relegated Pisa in the latest round.
“It’s been a positive week, as it often happens after a victory,” continued Di Francesco.
“Having scored from open play might have given us something extra, but Juventus are so strong. They drew against Verona because there are no games with a guaranteed outcome, but they have important numbers, especially under Spalletti.
“Juventus build up from the back. I know Spalletti well. I’ve been following him, and I know what he does. They’ll try to dominate proceedings, and we’ll have to be good at taking control instead.”
Juventus are fighting for a Champions League place and are unbeaten in their last 10 games across all competitions.
However, they get to the Lecce match after consecutive draws against Milan and Hellas Verona, which have reduced their advantage over Roma to just one point.
Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri reports that Bayern Munich have shown concrete interest in Atalanta star Charles De Ketelaere: the Belgian has already approved a potential transfer, and club-to-club talks will begin soon.
Atalanta star De Ketelaere has attracted interest from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.
Bayern Munich prepare for De Ketelaere talks with Atalanta
According to Sky Sport CH transfer expert Tavolieri, De Ketelaere has already given the green light to a potential move to the Allianz Arena in the summer, so an agreement on personal terms is not expected to be an issue.
Bayern Munich are expected to begin talks with Atalanta soon to determine if the Serie A club are willing to sell and at what price.
De Ketelaere, 25, has scored five goals and provided seven assists in 39 appearances across all competitions this season.
BERGAMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Torino FC at Gewiss Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
He is in his third season at Atalanta, having moved to Bergamo on a €3m loan deal from Milan in 2023 before making the transfer permanent the following year for circa €24m.
De Katelaere’s contract at the Gewiss Stadium runs out in June 2028.
The Belgium international joined Juventus on loan from RB Leipzig last summer, with an obligation to buy, and the clause was activated upon achieving a top-ten finish.
ROME, ITALY – MARCH 01: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on March 01, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Openda has played barely 1,100 minutes across all competitions with Juventus this season, and just 688 minutes under Spalletti since October.
Questioned on the Belgian’s lack of playing time this term, Spalletti replied (via Sky Sport): “That is another mistake I’ve made. I have to make decisions, but I’m sure I’ll get something wrong.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – JANUARY 06: Loïs Openda of Juventus during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Juventus FC at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on January 06, 2026 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“He is committed and demonstrates outstanding professionalism. I haven’t played him much because I thought others could give me better results.”
Openda is expected to get even less playing time in the final three games of the season as Dusan Vlahovic is back from an injury and could even start against Lecce tomorrow, as Spalletti admitted during his press conference today.
Juventus paid €3m for Openda’s loan move, while the fee for his permanent transfer is €42m.
Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti admits Dusan Vlahovic could return to the starting XI for a Serie A match against Lecce and warns his players should not see their latest draw against Hellas Verona as ‘bad luck.’
Juventus visit Lecce at the Stadio Via Del Mare on Saturday, and Spalletti previewed the match at a pre-match press conference on Friday morning.
Lecce vs. Juventus – Spalletti’s pre-match press conference
The Bianconeri are unbeaten in the last ten games across all competitions, but collected back-to-back draws against Milan and Hellas Verona prior to this match.
Despite a disappointing draw in the latest round, Juventus players were still applauded by the home crowd.
“We want to build on the previous match. If a Stadium like the Allianz, used to seeing victories, applauds after a result against a team you’re expected to beat, it means not everything was to be thrown away,” Spalletti said via Sky Sport.
“We want to produce that kind of performance, the good things we did, even if they didn’t bring the result we wanted.
TURIN, ITALY – APRIL 06: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Genoa CFC at Allianz Stadium on April 06, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“The mistake would be to see it [the draw against Verona] as bad luck. We must not make that mistake. I know Lecce, Corvino and Di Francesco’s experience. They have a club that invests.”
“There are still a few hours left, but it’s a fair consideration, and we’ll see how it goes until tomorrow evening. Let’s not burden him with too much responsibility.”
Vlahovic has not started a Juventus game for over five months, last featuring in the starting XI on November 29, 2025, when he suffered a muscle injury that required surgery.
Juventus’ latest draws have allowed fifth-placed Roma to move just one point behind the Bianconeri with three games remaining.
“We had a wider range of alternatives, but in some ways, things are clearer now because there’s only one path and you don’t risk getting there with doubts about your behaviour,” Spalletti said.
“We have to be decisive in our choices and intentions, understand the moment we’re in and give everything in these 90 minutes. There’s this door, then two more, and we have to open them.
“We need responsibility in moments like these. This week, we suffered. The certainty I have comes from the players’ commitment, which I’ve seen since I arrived,” continued the Old Lady’s boss.
“When this dressing room doesn’t win, it hurts. The team feels pain, and that teaches you things. I looked at the players in their eyes. I’m convinced they’ll react. Character comes out when something isn’t going well, and you have to turn it around.
“Everything is in our hands. We must not let ourselves be influenced by opinions or overthinking,” he concluded.
“I’m very satisfied with the team. Some moments make the difference, and we missed them. Maybe a late header, an interception, a lack of instinct. Those things hurt us, but the team has always been serious and responsible. That’s the behaviour worthy of Juventus.”
According to Corriere dello Sport, Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has demanded an €8m salary from Juventus and Milan for a possible free transfer this summer.
Barcelona striker Lewandowski has demanded an €8m-a-year salary from Juventus and Milan, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Lewandowski demands 8m salary
The Poland international is available on a free transfer as his contract expires this coming June.
His future remains uncertain, and according to the report, he might also sign a short-term contract extension with Barcelona.
His agent, Pini Zahavi, has met representatives of Juventus and Milan in recent weeks, offering the Serie A giants another of his clients: Real Madrid defender David Alaba.
BARCELONA, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 28: Robert Lewandowski of FC Barcelona celebrates scoring his team’s fourth goal during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF at Spotify Camp Nou on February 28, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Lewandowski’s salary demands have put talks with Juventus and Milan on hold, as both sides appear reluctant to meet his requests.
TURIN, ITALY – MARCH 07: A detailed view of the corner flag inside the Juventus Stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Pisa SC at Juventus Stadium on March 07, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/Getty Images)
Juventus have set a salary limit of circa €7m per season, an amount that Kenan Yildiz will earn following his recent contract extension. The club is open to a few exceptions, such as Bernardo Silva.
Former Juventus winger Angelo Di Livio believes the Bianconeri should increase the personality in the team by signing Manchester City star Bernardo Silva: ‘I’d go and get him right away, even on foot!’
Juventus have already begun talks to sign Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva, who is available on a free transfer given that his contract runs out in June.
Former winger Di Livio, a 1996 Champions League winner with the Old Lady, urged the Bianconeri to sign the experienced midfielder in his latest interview with Tuttosport newspaper.
Di Livio: Juventus need ‘charismatic players’
“I’d go and get him right away, even on foot! When you play with someone like him, your strength and confidence are boosted,” Di Livio said.
“You give him the ball in difficult moments, and he’d bring personality.
WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 16: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City in action during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester City at Molineux on August 16, 2025 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“There’s a lack of charismatic players,” the ex-Italy international continued.
“They need a signing like Modric, the way Milan did. He gave everyone a boost. And I hope Juventus can go back to being disliked again. In any case, they are working hard. The next year, they can become competitive again.”
Di Livio added that he sees a similarity between legendary Juventus coach Marcello Lippi and current Juventus tactician Luciano Spalletti: “They are two strong, perfectionist Tuscans. Two winners. Luciano, to me, is perfectly fit into this Juventus,” he concluded.
Juventus sit fourth in the Serie A table with three games remaining. Following back-to-back draws against Milan and Verona, their advantage over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to one point.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Bernardo Silva of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s first goal 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)
The Bianconeri will need a financial boost from Champions League qualification to make big signings in the summer, including Bernardo Silva.
According to Gazzetta, the Bianconeri have offered the Portuguese a three-year deal.
Multiple sources in Italy claim that Inter might decide against signing Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham this summer and instead rely on their current second-choice goalkeeper, Josep Martinez, in 2026-27.
Vicario might not be joining Inter over the summer despite having already reached an agreement with the fresh Serie A winners.
Inter might drop Vicario despite agreement with Tottenham goalkeeper
Multiple sources over the last few weeks reported that the Nerazzurri had reached a principle of agreement with the Italy international, although they still had to receive the green light from Tottenham, who value Vicario at €20m.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the Nerazzurri might ultimately decide against signing Vicario and instead use their transfer budget to strengthen other areas.
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – DECEMBER 19: Josep Martinez Rieira goalkeeper of FC Internazionale kicks the ball during the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal match between Bologna FC 1909 and FC Internazionale at King Saud University Stadium on December 19, 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)
Gazzetta dello Sport reported earlier this week that the Nerazzurri will have a budget of €40-50m for new signings in the summer, which could be boosted with some sales.
Yann Sommer is expected to leave at the end of his contract in June, so the second-choice keeper Martinez would be deployed as a regular starter in goal next season if Inter decide against welcoming Vicario.
The Italian goalkeeper remains on Inter’s radar, but transfer expert Matteo Moretto has also reported that the Nerazzurri are now unsure about whether to continue talks with Tottenham, given that Martinez could become their first option for the new campaign.
If Inter don’t sign Vicario, they’d still have to get a high-level second-choice keeper who would potentially compete with Martinez for a starting spot in goal next season, Moretto said.
Martinez, 27, will start the next two matches against Lazio, first in Serie A and then in the Coppa Italia Final.
He has only made eight appearances across all competitions this season, going through a tough time off the pitch after being involved in a car accident that killed an 81-year-old man in an electric wheelchair in October 2025.
Martinez is in his second season at the Stadio Meazza, having joined Inter from Genoa for €14m in the 2024 summer transfer window.
David Alaba is available on a free transfer, and according to Corriere dello Sport, the Real Madrid defender has been offered to Juventus and Milan in Serie A.
Austria international Alaba has been offered to Serie A giants Juventus and Milan by his agent Pini Zahavi, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Real Madrid’s Alaba offered to Juventus and Milan in Serie A
Alaba’s contract at the Bernabeu expires at the end of the season, and the experienced defender is looking for a fresh start after struggling with injuries this season.
The 33-year-old has only collected 14 appearances across all competitions this term and wants to find a new club for the 2026-27 campaign.
MADRID, SPAIN – MARCH 02: David Alaba of Real Madrid in action during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and Getafe CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 02, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
His agent has offered him to several European clubs, including Milan and Juventus.
According to the report, Alaba has attracted interest from other leagues as well, especially the MLS and the Saudi Pro League.
There’s also interest from RB Salzburg, which is considering bringing Alaba back to Austria to contribute to the young players’ development within the Red Bull Group.
Olympic Lautaro: he takes charge of Inter for the great final. Calha doesn’t recover.
Rabiot’s sprint to keep Allegri. Spalletti thinks of Vlahovir right away.
Corriere dello Sport
Alaba offered
He leaves Real
Free agent in July: the Austrian jolly is nearly 34. Agent’s blitz
The agent Zahavi sees Milan and Inter
He’s won 39 trophies in his career. Only 14 games this season. He has offers from the USA, Arabia and Salzburg.
Martinez plays for the cup and the future
The Spaniard’s stakes are rising. Vicario is no longer the first choice, but the Final against Lazio will be decisive
McT makes the counting: target 14
Nobody is as decisive as Scott at Napoli: Bologna arrive on Monday, and the Scotsman is close to his record of goals.
Tuttosport
D’Aversa, warning to Cairo
‘Sign Silva? Even on foot!’
Di Livio: ‘One with the class and personality of Bernardo gives you the strength, even just for how he holds the ball in difficult moments. Spalletti reminds me of Lippi. I raised Del Piero, I was his driver.’ Vucinic praises Lucio too: ‘He’s a phenomenon.’ Lecce tomorrow: Vlahovic ready
Inter, listen to Palestra: ‘Yes, I’m ready for the leap.’
Schenone sees the Prosecutor. Meeting with Rocchi?
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