DAN referee pundit Luca Marelli claims that Christian Pulisic’s goal for Milan against Sassuolo shouldn’t have been disallowed, but the Neroverdi deserved a penalty kick for a Strahinja Pavlović foul.
Milan’s 2-2 home draw against Sassuolo saw referee Valerio Crezzini in the spotlight as he navigated several tricky incidents, with his decisions coming under criticism from the Italian media.
USMNT international Pulisic had a goal disallowed in the second half, with Milan already leading 2-1.
Referee controversies in Milan vs. Sassuolo
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Armand Lauriente of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with his teammates during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The American put the ball inside an empty net after Arijanet Muric palmed away a Pavlovic header from point-blank range. The referee, however, had spotted a Ruben Loftus-Cheek push in the build-up right behind Pavlovic.
“It’s a field assessment because there was contact. Loftus-Cheek placed his hands, but I don’t see any push,” said DAZN’s referee pundit Luca Marelli (via Calciomercato.com).
“Crezzini barely blew the whistle. This contact is below threshold; there isn’t a real push. This goal shouldn’t have been disallowed.”
UDINE, ITALY – MAY 11: Referee Valerio Crezzini during the Serie A match between Udinese and Monza at Stadio Friuli on May 11, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Marelli spotted another mistake from the Milan-Sassuolo referee, claiming that the visitors should have been awarded a penalty kick for a Pavlović foul in the dying minutes, with the result set to 2-2.
“Pavlovic didn’t touch the ball, but with his right leg, he hit Cheddira’s left leg. VAR were too hasty. It was a penalty, and VAR should have intervened,” Marelli said.
Davide Bartesaghi is Football Italia’s MOTM in Milan’s 2-2 draw against Sassuolo, but Andrea Pinamonti was impressive for the Neroverdi, providing two assists.
Best Milan player: Bartesaghi 8 – First two goals in Serie A. A day he’ll not forget, but it wasn’t enough to secure all three points.
Lowest Milan rating: Tomori 5 – Lost track of Laurienté when the Frenchman scored the equaliser, and even later on, when he could have scored the third one for Sassuolo. Gabbia and De Winter were also equally disappointing.
Milan coach: Allegri 5.5 –Milan once again dropped points against a newly promoted side at San Siro. The Rossoneri boss didn’t have many options in attack, which is why Pulisic’s substitution will make people talk in the coming days.
Best Sassuolo player: Pinamonti 7.5 – Two fantastic assists to inspire Sassuolo’s big draw at San Siro. He now has four goals and three assists in 15 Serie A matches this term. Still looking for consistency, but also underrated. Koné was also brilliant today, besides his goal.
Lowest Sassuolo rating: Fadera 5.5 – He helped the team defensively, but took a big risk in the first half when he lost possession just outside the box.
Sassuolo coach: Grosso 7 – Just one loss in the last five games. The game plan was excellent, including leaving Laurienté on the bench to hurt Milan in the second part of the match. Sassuolo have 21 points, practically safe already, and it’s not even Christmas. Oh, and don’t forget they were without Berardi today.
Massimiliano Allegri insists he would have replaced Christian Pulisic even if Milan didn’t play in the Supercoppa next week, but feels it was ‘too easy’ for Sassuolo to score goals in a 2-2 draw.
Milan were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted side Sassuolo at San Siro on Sunday.
The Rossoneri already dropped points against Cremonese and Pisa, two other teams coming from Serie B, earlier this season.
Davide Bartesaghi scored his first two goals in Serie A, but Ismael Koné and Armand Laurienté helped a brave Sassuolo return home with one point in their pocket.
“I think we played a good game, we attacked well, and Sassuolo are always dangerous because they have quality in attack, so if you don’t recover the ball immediately, you are forced to track back for 90 minutes,” Allegri told DAZN.
“We played a good game, but in the end, we even risked losing it. Now we focus on the Supercoppa.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The lads played a good game, regardless of the players’ characteristics. For now, we are still the table leaders, and our target is to qualify for the Champions League,” the Italian tactician continued.
“We know there’s a lot of work to do, and obviously, we must start conceding fewer goals. I can’t absolutely blame the lads today.”
Milan will face Napoli in Saudi Arabia in the Supercoppa Italia semifinal next Thursday.
Allegri replaced Pulisic in the second half and said he would have done the same even if Milan didn’t play the Partenopei next week.
“I would have done it anyway. Christian had joined us in Turin after a fever and then trained. He played well for 72 minutes, but at that moment, we needed one more midfielder. Loftus-Cheek held firm up front, but we had to defend better, especially for the second goal. We had to follow Laurienté, and it was too easy for them to score.”
Christopher Nkunku provided the assist for Bartesaghi’s second goal.
Allegri explains Pulisic’s substitution
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
“Today he played a good game, as in Turin. He was decisive for the second goal; he had a chance in the final minutes,” argued Allegri.
“He was very good. We know the team’s quality, we know we can’t win every game, and we must give consistency to the results. Today, we could have lost the match, but we took home a draw. Today it seems that we’ve thrown two points away, but in the end, it will prove to be useful.”
Matteo Gabbia was subbed off with a suspected knee injury in the second half.
“Let’s see. Hopefully it’s nothing serious. We’ll see tomorrow, but De Winter and Odogu will be ready to play,” concluded Allegri.
Milan talent Davide Bartesaghi scored his first two goals in Serie A, but Sassuolo bravely picked up a point thanks to goals from Ismael Koné and Armand Laurienté in a 2-2 draw.
Milan were held to a 2-2 draw by Sassuolo at San Siro on Sunday.
The visitors were without their star Domenico Berardi, and Laurienté started on the bench in a defensive 4-3-3 set-up.
The Neroverdi still took the lead with Ismael Koné after winning the ball high up the pitch from a Milan defensive throw-in. Andrea Pinamonti laid it off for the Ivory Coast international who ran into the space to beat Matteo Gabbia with his first touch and Mike Maignan with the outside of his foot.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Ismael Kone of US Sassuolo Calcio celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Adrien Rabiot had a big chance to level the score when he stole the ball from Alieu Fadera at the edge of Sassuolo’s box, but saw Arijanet Muric spread himself brilliantly to deny the equaliser.
It was just a matter of time for Milan anyway, as Bartesaghi scored his first Serie A goal at minute 33 when he headed towards the far post to meet a Ruben Loftus-Cheek driven pass from the right, finding the net at the far post with a left-footed finish.
The Italian left-back doubled Milan’s lead just one minute into the second half. This time around, Christopher Nkunku saw his late run on the left delivering a perfect through ball for Bartesaghi’s finish at the near post.
After scoring his first senior goal in the first half, 19-year-old Davide Bartesaghi gets a brace just a minute into the second half
Matteo Gabbia worringly twisted his knee and was forced to be subbed off around the hour mark.
Sassuolo’s Kristian Thorstvedt had a massive chance to level the score, but was denied by Maignan from point-blank range, and Milan had two goals disallowed.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Davide Bartesaghi of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pulisic found the net from a corner kick routine, but the referee spotted a foul from Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the build-up. A few minutes later, Adrien Rabiot steered a Loftus-Cheek header into the net, but he was offside.
Sassuolo made attacking substitutions by introducing Armand Laurienté and Josh Doig, and forced the Rossoneri to defend inside their own box.
Laurienté made it 2-2 with an identical move to the first goal, Pinamonti laying it off and the scorer bursting in to finish at the far post.
The Frenchman had two more big chances to win the game for Sassuolo, but first, he didn’t find the net from an excellent position inside the box and then he hit the post from distance.
Milan 2-2 Sassuolo
I Kone 13 (S), Bartesaghi 34, 47 (M), Lauriente 77 (S)
Gian Piero Gasperini confirms Roma will have Evan Ndicka and potentially Paulo Dybala starting against Como on Monday. ‘We have all the ingredients to do well.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday at 19.45 GMT.
The Giallorossi are badly in need of a boost in Serie A after back-to-back defeats against Napoli and Cagliari, both with 1-0 results.
Gasperini forced into some changes
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, gestures as he gives the team instructions during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Zeki Celik was sent off in Sardinia and is therefore suspended, which makes holding on to Ndicka for a little longer before Africa Cup of Nations duty all the more important.
“Ndicka is there tomorrow, for the rest we’ll see in the next games. Morocco appealed to FIFA for Neil El Aynaoui, so we await their response,” explained Gasperini in his press conference.
“Those teams who played on Saturday and Sunday could use their players, but seeing as we are scheduled for Monday, we could have a problem, despite the fact it is the same round of fixtures.”
Como are coming off a 4-0 defeat to Inter, yet before that had been flying high in the table and pushing for European places.
“It will certainly be a tense match, as Como are no longer a surprise, both for the investment made and the quality in the squad. They are very pleasant to watch, so tomorrow will be a game between two teams who want the maximum result,” continued Gasperini.
“Cesc Fabregas has given Como a precise identity that aims for results via good football, with attacking wingers who can also cut inside.”
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma had perhaps a much better start to the campaign than many expected, but have since run into problems, especially with the lack of goals.
“The start was better than even the rosiest predictions, as I came here with the hope to do well and the belief this was the right atmosphere to do my work.
“We must be ambitious and not arrogant, keep solid and united. We have all the right ingredients to mix together and do well, with the club, the fans, the possibility of building a new stadium and boosting investment.
“As for Ferguson, he needs to be a player who is of use to Roma, that is the most important thing. He was the other day and that is what counts, Roma first and foremost, above everyone and everything.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Roma’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Sant’Elia on December 07, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Dybala has been used as a False 9 on several occasions, but he continues to struggle with a history of injury problems.
“We’ll see tomorrow if he is there from the start, as he had a positive moment, but today’s football does not all for you to be anything less than 100 per cent. I have no doubts about Paulo when he is in good shape.
“When he has been healthy, he always played whole games, including several in a row.”
His fitness record is believed to be one of the main reasons why Roma are in no rush to renew his contract, while Lorenzo Pellegrini is also in the final seven months of his deal.
“With regards to contract renewals, it is purely an economic issue,” assured Gasperini.
Check the official line-ups from this afternoon’s Serie A games, as Napoli have limited options against Nicolò Zaniolo’s Udinese, while Fiorentina vs. Verona is a huge relegation dogfight.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Nicolò Zaniolo of Udinese Calcio looks on during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 29, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Udinese vs. Napoli team news
Napoli need a victory to ensure they stay top of the Serie A table, but after looking exhausted in the midweek Champions League defeat to Benfica, Antonio Conte has few alternatives for squad rotation.
Juan Jesus joins Billy Gilmour, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret and Romelu Lukaku on the treatment table.
Udinese lost Jordan Zemura with a muscular lesion, with Arthur Atta and Hassane Kamara already out of action following a surprise 2-1 home defeat to Genoa.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The bottom two face off in a potentially decisive match for relegation, as while Hellas earned their first victory of the campaign last week against Atalanta, Fiorentina are still without a single Serie A success.
Marin Pongracic returns from suspension, with Robin Gosens, Jacopo Fazzini, Abdelhamid Sabiri and Tariq Lamptey still out.
At least their mood was boosted by Thursday’s Conference League win over Dynamo Kyiv.
Verona get Roberto Gagliardini back from his ban, but Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro, Domagoj Bradaric and Tomas Suslov miss out.
Milan director Igli Tare keeps the door open for Mike Maignan’s contract extension and trusts Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Gimenez, but refuses to rule out the signing of a new centre-forward in January.
LA SPEZIA, ITALY – APRIL 14: Igli Tare of SS Lazio looks on during the Serie A match between Spezia Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Alberto Picco on April 14, 2023 in La Spezia, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“We’ve started with a fantastic group. Every day we work together, we realise it’s one of the best groups we’ve ever worked with,” Tare told DAZN before kick-off.
“They have determination and desire, and you can see it with results on the pitch. We know there’s work to do and we need consistency, but we are happy for now.”
With the January transfer window just around the corner, Tare was inevitably asked to provide updates on Milan’s negotiations, starting with the future of Maignan.
Tare on Maignan’s contract extension
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 04: Mike Maignan of AC Milan gives the team instructions during the Coppa Italia Round of 16 match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Olimpico Stadium on December 04, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The goalkeeper’s contract runs out in June and according to reports in Italy, he’s asked for a new €8m-a-year contract.
“We’ve never discussed the figures, I’ve never heard these numbers, but it’s easy to talk about Mike because he’s a fantastic lad, he’s a leader and a man of the group,” Tare replied.
“We are happy with him, he likes to stay at Milan and Milan want to extend. Today we have a game we want to win, then we’ll have time to discuss the matter.”
Former Chelsea striker Nkunku starts alongside Christian Pulisic in attack today, while Rafael Leao and Gimenez are injured.
Will Milan look for a new centre-forward in the winter transfer window?
“It’s hard to find players who can make a difference in the January window, but we’ll keep our eyes open to see if there’s something that can improve the situation of the team,” Tare said.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Abdoulaye Ndiaye of Parma during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“If there’s a chance, we’ll take it, but the team is improving. Nkunku sent important messages in the second half against Torino. Today it’s a big chance for him to show the real Nkunku we all expect.
“As for Gimenez, he has this physical problem; we are waiting for him, but he’s also an important player for this team.”
Milan are the joint-Serie A table leaders alongside Napoli with 31 points. The Partenopei will play later today, away at Udinese.
Tuttosport newspaper reported earlier this week that Frattesi’s agent Beppe Riso had resumed talks with Juventus as the Inter midfielder seeks more playing time in the second part of the season.
Frattesi seeks Inter exit
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 05: Davide Frattesi of Internazionale passes the ball under pressure from Dastan Satpayev of FC Kairat during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Kairat Almaty at Stadio San Siro on November 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The best Italy goal-scorer during the Luciano Spalletti era, Frattesi, will be glad to reunite with the ex-Azzurri boss, but negotiations between the two clubs might not be so easy.
Inter expert Pasquale Guarro and Gazzetta, in fact, claim that the Nerazzurri will likely ask for Khephren Thuram if Juventus knock on their door for Frattesi.
Inter eager to reunite the Thuram brothers
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Lautaro Martinez during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The move would allow the Nerazzurri to reunite the two Thuram brothers at San Siro, as Marcus has been playing for Inter since 2023.
According to Guarro, Khephren Thuram was already an Inter target last summer, alongside Roma’s Manu Kone and Atalanta’s Ederson.
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri ended up signing 22-year-old Andy Diouf last summer, but the Frenchman has only collected 150 minutes of football on the pitch this season.
Christian Pulisic and Christopher Nkunku lead the Milan attack against Sassuolo, who reply with Alieu Fadera and Andrea Pinamonti.
It kicks off at 12:30 CET (11:30 GMT) at the Stadio Meazza in San Siro, Milan.
Milan vs. Sassuolo and Serie A Week 15 live on Football Italia
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Gimenez, Fofana, Leao are unavailable for the Rossoneri, but while the Mexican’s return date remains unclear, Leao and Fofana will be available for the Supercoppa Italiana Final Four next week.
Sassuolo have travelled to San Siro without the injured Romagna, Skjellerup, Pieragnolo, Turati, Berardi and Boloca and their coach Fabio Grosso, a 2006 Italy World Cup winner, is serving a one-game ban.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pulisic and Nkunku will start up front for Milan. Ruben Loftus-Cheek gets the nod in the middle of the park, pushing Samuele Ricci to the bench.
Cristian Volpato replaces the injured Berardi for Sassuolo.
Kenan Yildiz will lead the Juventus attack in a tricky match at Bologna this evening.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT) at a sold-out Stadio Dall’Ara in Bologna.
The Rossoblu and Juventus compete for a spot in the top four, and the home side has three points more than the Old Lady in the Serie A standings.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – OCTOBER 05: Riccardo Orsolini of Bologna FC 1909 celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Pisa SC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on October 05, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Bologna will be involved in the Supercoppa Italiana next week, so their coach, Vincenzo Italiano, could slightly rotate his squad.
As reported by Sky Sport and other Italian media, Jhon Lucumì will return to the starting XI, joining Torbjorn Heggem in central defence and Lewis Ferguson is also expected to feature in the Rossoblu line-up after starting on the bench against Celta Vigo earlier this week, as he was not fully fit.
Thijs Dallinga and Santiago Castro compete for a starting spot in attack.
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Juventus will make no changes in defence as Gleison Bremer is available, but still not fit to start. Jonathan David is expected to start again up front with Yildiz and Francisco Conceiçao playing as attacking midfielders.
Bologna vs. Juventus – where to watch on TV
The match will be televised on TNT Sports 1 and DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will cover today’s Serie A action with a liveblog.
Francesco Pio Esposito is expected to partner with Lautaro Martinez in the Inter attack in an away game at Genoa.
It kicks off at 18:00 CET (17:00 GMT) at the Stadio Ferraris in Genoa.
Inter must cope without Denzel Dumfries, Matteo Darmian, Francesco Acerbi, Hakan Calhanoglu and third-choice goalkeeper Raffaele Di Gennaro.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 25: Francesco Esposito #94 of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with Petar Sucic #8 and Lautaro Martinez #10 during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and CA River Plate at Lumen Field on June 25, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Maxwel Cornet, Benjamin Siegrist and Leo Ostigard are unavailable for the home side.
Acerbi’s injury means Yann Bisseck will join regular starters Manuel Akanji and Alessandro Bastoni in central defence.
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 08: Daniele De Rossi, manager of Genoa, looks on before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Genoa CFC at Stadio Friuli on December 08, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Luis Henrique is expected to start as a right midfielder to replace Dumfries. Petar Sucic competes with Henrikh Mkhitaryan for a spot in central midfield, while Carlos Augusto is favourite over Federico Dimarco, according to Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta.
Italian media claim that Marcus Thuram will start on the bench, making room for Pio Esposito and Lautaro Martinez in attack.
Genoa vs. Inter – where to watch on TV
The match is available on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will cover today’s Serie A action with a liveblog.
Antonio Conte will make little changes to his Napoli XI as they visit Udinese in Serie A Week 15.
It kicks off at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT) at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine.
The Partenopei are still without several key players, Romelu Lukaku, Alex Meret, Kevin De Bruyne, Frank Zambo Anguissa and Billy Gilmour, but Stanislav Lobotka is back in the squad and is expected to start on the bench.
Napoli will face Milan in the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal next week, but Conte still can’t rotate much, so he’ll make just one change to the XI that lost 2-0 away at Benfica in the Champions League earlier this week.
LISBON, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 10: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between SL Benfica and SSC Napoli at on December 10, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
According to several sources, including Corriere dello Sport, Leonardo Spinazzola is expected to start as a left midfielder in a 3-4-3 system, while David Neres and Noa Lang remain favourites to start up front alongside Rasmus Hojlund, leaving Matteo Politano on the bench.
Udinese are without Hassane Kamara, Arthur Atta and Jordan Zemura, but Nicolò Zaniolo is fit to start and will lead their attack today.
Udinese vs. Napoli – where to watch on TV
The match is available on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will cover today’s Serie A action with a liveblog.
Sunday with the big sides: Napoli and Milan to remain at the top
Traps for the leaders: Allegri with Nkunku-Pulisic, Conte relies on Neres
Offer rejected
Elkann to Tether: ‘Juve are not for sale.’
‘History and value of the club are not for sale.’ The value is too low. Spalletti in Bologna (20.45), he must win to climb.
Inter idea, the two Thurams
Chivu at Genoa’s home, thinking of Pio and Lautaro
Golden Vlasic
Toro restart with a win. Cairo: ‘Fundamental victory.’
Lazio win down to ten men
Incredible: two players sent off, then Noslin scores.
Corriere dello Sport
Who gets it wrong goes down
Hot Sunday in the race for the title
Milan begin at lunchtime, then Napoli, Inter and Juve: 360 minutes waiting for the Supercoppa
Pulisic and Nkunku up front. Max: ‘Napoli and Inter still favourites.’
Conte chases the 11th win, Lobotka returns and goes to the bench. There’s Spinazzola.
Chivu hits back: ‘They said we were finished.’ Zielinski and Bisseck in.
Space for Dallinga. David with Yildiz. Lucio: ‘I told DeLa to get Italiano.’
‘History is not for sale.’
Elkann holds Juventus tight: ‘It’s a love lasting one century.’
Exor’s CEO says no to Tether’s offer: ‘Juventus have been my family’s club for 102 years. We’ll continue to support the team and look to a winning future.’
Lazio feat: victory down to nine men.
Tuttosport
Petrachi, happy debut as a director: Toro return to winning ways with Cremonese
Vlasic saves Baroni
Gobbo pride
Elkann strongly confirms he won’t sell Juve, Spalletti demands a performance in line with history
Exor’s CEO has rejected the offer from Tether. John: ‘Our values are not for sale.’ The coach: ‘I’m happy to feel his passion, now it’s up to us to honour the past and work to build the same or a better future.’ David towards the confirmation. Cautious with Bremer, but…
Frattesi for Thuram: Inter try the coup
Trap for Chivu in Genoa today after the defeat with Liverpool: ‘They said we were finished, but we’re still here. Too many labels, I don’t like it.’
Milan-Napoli: head-to-head with Ryiad on the horizon.
Allegri defends the leadership against Sassuolo without Leao. Conte still in emergency in Udine. On Thursday, the Supercoppa semifinal.
Nine-man Lazio beat Parma! Dea climb back with Scamacca
Gianluca Scamacca struck twice around a temporary Gianluca Gaetano equaliser, as Atalanta squeezed to victory over Cagliari to complete an ideal week.
La Dea were fresh from a Champions League victory over Chelsea, yet had just one Serie A win in the last 10 rounds, so needed to catch up. Raoul Bellanova joined Kamaldeen Sulemana and Mitchel Bakker on the treatment table, with Isak Hien suffering from flu symptoms. The Sardinians missed Yerry Mina, Mattia Felici, Ze Pedro and Andrea Belotti, but Adam Obert returned after victory over Roma.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta runs with the ball away from Elia Caprile of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Charles De Ketelaere sent Ademola Lookman into the box, with the first shot parried by on-rushing Elia Caprile, then fired the rebound onto the side-netting.
Atalanta broke through soon after, as Lookman got down the left and pulled back for Davide Zappacosta, whose wayward strike was redirected from six yards by Scamacca’s back-heel flick.
Lorenzo Bernasconi got back to stop his former Atalanta Under-23 side teammate Marco Palestra going clear on goal, then Lookman’s effort was charged down for a corner.
Scamacca fired straight at Caprile on a smart De Ketelaere through ball, then the goalkeeper got down for a great one-handed save from close range on Lookman, with De Ketelaere’s follow-up deflected onto the roof of the net.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta is challenged by Michel Ndary Adopo of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cagliari had a huge opportunity to equalise on the stroke of half-time, Gennaro Borrelli’s header flashing inches wide on Michael Folorunsho’s cross.
Berat Djimsiti pulled up clutching the back of his right thigh and had to be replaced, as Atalanta began to visibly run out of steam following their midweek European exertions.
The visitors took advantage and equalised with an excellent team move. Folorunsho found Gianluca Gaetano, who completed a quick give and go with Sebastiano Esposito to burst into the box and bent the finish past an on-rushing Marco Carnesecchi with the inside of the right boot.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta and Alessandro Deiola of Cagliari battle for possession during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Scamacca restored Atalanta’s lead when his volley from a Lazar Samardzic volley didn’t come off, but it landed kindly and he was quickest to react on the loose ball, prodding it through Caprile’s legs from six yards.
Nicola Zalewski forced two tricky saves from Caprile in the same move, one at the near post, then a curler from the edge of the area.
Zito Luvumbo had the ball in the net for Cagliari during stoppages, but only after Folorunsho had wandered offside when flicking on the assist to the back post.
The Aquile had a very poor away record, so things weren’t looking good for them when Mattia Zaccagni was shown a straight red card for his mistimed lunge on Nahuel Estevez just before half-time.
It got even worse at the 77th minute when Toma Basic was also sent off, this time for elbowing Estevez in the ribs during an off the ball incident.
However, Lazio grabbed the victory when down to nine men against 11 at the Stadio Tardini when Tijjani Noslin robbed a defender, dribbled around the goalkeeper and deposited into an empty net.
Sarri impressed with Lazio attitude
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“This win can give us enthusiasm, but I think the lads had already begun to believe more from the end of September,” Sarri told DAZN.
“We were two men down today, but if we look at the game overall, the victory is fully deserved. The team is improving both in terms of mentality and the performances on the field.
“I said that I was enjoying myself with this squad and I stand by that. Have I ever won 9 against 11? Actually I was coaching during Entella-Figline when we won with 8 against 10…”
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Maurizio Sarri, Head Coach of Lazio, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“We were down to 10 men against Bologna last week and didn’t lose our organisation then either. I saw the same thing today, even if with two players sent off it’s more complicated,” continued Sarri.
“I introduced players off the bench who were suited to these situations. For example, Oliver Provstgaard gave us a big hand.”
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio leaves the field after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The double red card means both Zaccagni and Basic will be suspended for the next Serie A match against Cremonese, but at least Mario Gila will be back, as he sat out a ban today.
Gil Patric also got his first start in nine months and impressed in defence.
“Unfortunately, we’re getting used to these situations. If we’ve got 11 players available, then we’ll start them, otherwise we’ll just start with 10 and save time,” laughed Sarri.
There are some question marks over both the straight red cards, as while Zaccagni’s challenge was very clumsy, he didn’t make full contact on the Nahuel Estevez shin.
“I don’t think he really gets him at all, as he connects with the ankle and not the studs. It feels a bit much. I realise it doesn’t give a good impression seen at full speed, but the red seems harsh.”
Lazio managed to grab a rare away victory with Tijjani Noslin’s late goal against Parma despite being down to nine men, with Mattia Zaccagni and Toma Basic sent off.
The Biancocelesti were slipping down the table after one point from two rounds, albeit very tough fixtures against Milan and Bologna. Gustav Isaksen joined Samuel Gigot and Nicolò Rovella on the injury list, with Mario Gila suspended. Parma missed Abdoulaye Ndiaye, Alessandro Circati, Zion Suzuki and Matija Frigan. There was a special patch on their shirts for the upcoming 112th anniversary of the club’s foundation.
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Luca Pellegrini of SS Lazio in action during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Matteo Cancellieri stung goalkeeper Edoardo Corvi’s gloves at the near post in the opening minutes, but at the other end Adrian Bernabé tested Ivan Provedel from the edge of the area.
Taty Castellanos was a yard out ready to nod in the Adam Marusic knockdown from a free kick when Nahuel Estevez cleared it practically off the line.
Toma Basic’s free kick was just over the bar, then his strike on a Mattia Zaccagni assist forced a desperate save out of Corvi.
The game changed just before half-time when Mattia Zaccagni went lunging into a late and high challenge in midfield on Estevez and the referee opted for a straight red card.
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Mattia Zaccagni of SS Lazio leaves the field after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Enrico Delprato went off injured, but Mateo Pellegrino again tested Provedel straight after the restart, while Adrian Bernabe blasted over under pressure from Luca Pellegrini.
Lazio received a second red card for violent conduct when Basic was spotted by the referee elbowing Estevez in the ribs during an off the ball incident, reducing them to nine men.
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Matteo Guendouzi of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Emanuele Valeri of Parma Calcio during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SS Lazio at Stadio Ennio Tardini on December 13, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
Incredibly, the Aquile still took the lead even though they were two men down. Noslin caught Lautaro Valenti napping on the edge of the area, then kept his cool to dribble around Corvi and fire into the empty net as a Parma player tried to get back on the line.
Provedel performed a fantastic one-handed reaction save moments later, readjusting to deal with the deflection and palm the Estevez screamer out from under the bar. On the resulting corner, Pellegrino’s acrobatic attempt flashed wide.
Luciano Spalletti says Juventus will no longer go into a training retreat before games and confirms he has suggested ‘everyone’ to hire Bologna coach Vincenzo Italiano, ‘not just to President Aurelio De Laurentiis.’
Spalletti’s Juventus will visit Bologna at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Sunday, meeting a direct rival in the race for the top four.
Bologna, in fact, are three points above the Old Lady, who ranks 7th in the Serie A table.
Spalletti previewed tomorrow’s match at a press conference, starting with team news.
Bologna-Juventus: Spalletti’s press conference
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
“Daniele Rugani can already be deployed. As for Bremer, because of his previous injury, he still needs time, and we must be cautious even if he’s available and wants to be there,” Spalletti told reporters via Ilbianconero.com.
Asked whether he’ll have more time next week to test a four-man defence in training, Spalletti replied: “I’m still surprised when I hear about systems in the field. In today’s football, it has changed a little. You don’t win by occupying positions, but spaces, deciding where you want to bring the game. We are going towards one-on-one across the pitch, and we have to adapt. It’s true that I want to use a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, trying to do something different, but it’s just the starting point because the game forces you to use other systems during the match.”
Francisco Conceiçao made a substitute appearance in Wednesday’s Champions League win over Pafos, contributing to a 2-0 win, but Spalletti expects a further step forward from the Portuguese.
“His development lies in becoming more decisive. He needs to increase the chances of scoring and be more determined in the attacking phase,” said the Juventus boss.
“He has this lethal outburst of pace that puts you in real trouble when he accelerates. Let’s also add some defensive phases, some duels, but I’ve seen great willingness to track back and help out, so we’re on the right path.”
The Juventus tactician was full of praise for Bologna and their coach, Italiano, confirming he had suggested Napoli hire the Bologna boss in 2023.
Spalletti on Italiano
UDINE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Vincenzo Italiano, manager of Bologna, celebrates with supporters at the end of the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Friuli on November 22, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“There are certainly things you can learn from Italiano. For me, he’s one of the best young coaches we have, and I’ve told everyone to get Italiano, not just President De Laurentiis.
“Credit goes to the coach and those who built the team. They have great quality and know exactly where they want to go,” continued Spalletti.
“They fear nothing and force you into a huge number of duels; they don’t care about how much space they leave behind. We have to break down these fences, not go man against man, but beyond the man. If we are not ready for this, it will be a complicated evening for us to talk about.
“Personality is a fundamental aspect of football. In the past, it only belonged to those who dared a risky play; today, is about accepting a full-pitch battle, pushing the opponents into the spaces you want, beyond the technical gesture,” Spalletti added.
“One single play might be enough to get a passing grade [from the media], but to play like a champion, you have to be in the heart of the team for 90 minutes and close to the ball.
“No one will convince me not to expect great things from these lads; no one will convince me that they aren’t good. A coach has to be obsessed with the idea of improving the team.”
Last but not least, Spalletti said the team would no longer go into a training retreat before matches, which means they won’t travel to Bologna until tomorrow morning.
“A training retreat isn’t a place, but a mental condition,” concluded Spalletti.
“We won’t do it anymore because, as far as I’m concerned, it’s an extra burden. If you are dealing with a group of players with the right mental condition, like those at Juventus, you don’t go into a training retreat. Whoever plays for Juventus is always in this mindset, so we’ll leave tomorrow morning.”
Torino celebrated their first win in over two months by seeing off Cremonese thanks to the Nikola Vlasic strike, but there were penalty appeals in stoppages.
The Granata were in crisis after three consecutive defeats, hovering just above the drop zone and without a win in six rounds, and sacking director of sport Davide Vagnati. Giovanni Simeone, Ardian Ismajli and Adrien Tameze were back in the squad, leaving only long-term absentees Perr Schuurs and Zanos Savva. Cremonese were buzzing after back-to-back wins over Bologna and Lecce, sending them into the top 10. Jeremy Sarmiento, Francesco Folino, Alberto Grassi, Mikayil Faye and Michele Collocolo missed the trip, then Matteo Bianchetti pulled out in the warm-up with a nosebleed.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Federico Bonazzoli of US Cremonese is challenged by Nikola Vlasić of Torino FC during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Diego Puletto/Getty Images)
Federico Ceccherini’s header from a corner was well smothered, but Emil Audero needed a great save getting down one-handed to keep out the powerful Che Adams angled drive.
Toro opened the scoring when Duvan Zapata controlled a cross from the left with his back to goal and turned, but in trying to intercept, Federico Baschirotto just knocked it down for Nikola Vlasic to smash in from 10 yards.
Cremonese responded immediately, Alberto Paleari forced into a tricky save on Federico Bonazzoli’s acrobatic chest and bicycle-kick. Moments later, Jamie Vardy drew out the goalkeeper, but couldn’t keep it in play after springing the offside trap.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Marcus Pedersen of Torino FC is challenged by Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Diego Puletto/Getty Images)
Toro continued to create the best chances after the restart, Adams stinging Audero’s gloves, while at the other end Ceccherini’s strike was straight at Paleari.
Romano Floriani Mussolini got back for a decisive block on the Marcus Pedersen counter-attack, but Cremonese wasted a golden opportunity to equalise on 80 minutes.
Vardy sprung the offside trap down the left and rolled across only for Faris Moumbagna to fire over as he came sliding in at the back post.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Valentino Lazaro of Torino FC is challenged by Martín Payero of US Cremonese during the Serie A match between Torino FC and US Cremonese at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on December 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Diego Puletto/Getty Images)
Adams could also have sealed it for Torino, cutting inside Federico Baschirotto to bend a right-foot finish inches past the far post.
Simeone stung Audero’s gloves from a tricky angle too, but there was controversy deep into stoppages when Simeone controlled the Alessio Zerbin free kick with his shoulder and it ricocheted onto the arm. VAR had a silent check, but ultimately decided not to suggest an On-Field Review for a Cremonese penalty.
Juventus are preparing to visit Bologna at the Stadio Dall’Ara tomorrow, but the eve of the game has been shaken by the news that minority shareholders Tether have made an offer to buy a majority stake from Exor.
Spalletti’s response to Elkann’s message
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Minutes before Spalletti’s pre-match press conference, Elkann released a statement through the Juventus website insisting that the club was not for sale: “We’ll continue to support our team and look to the future to build a winning Juve,” said the club owner.
“Even though I arrived only recently, it makes me happy to feel the strength and passion that John Elkann and family have for this club,” Spalletti said (via Ilbianconero.com).
“It is clear that it is up to us to give substance and concreteness to this passion, honouring the last and building a future on the same level, or even a better one, as John Elkann himself told us when he came to visit us.”
Spalletti and Elkann met on Friday
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – MARCH 09: Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App RB embraces John Elkann on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 09, 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)
The Italian tactician revealed he had spoken to Elkann on Friday: “Yes, and I saw him too, a few hours ago, just yesterday,” he said.
“Sometimes, he sends me his thoughts, and I’m glad about it. In this case, he mentioned the future as well and clearly, as I said when I arrived, the objective is to always aim for the top when you are part of this kind of club.”
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: General view inside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus and Napoli at on September 21, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Wearing a Juventus hoodie, he outlined their refusal for the present and the future.
Elkann makes it clear Juventus not for sale
Allianz Juventus Stadium (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
“Juve have been part of my family for 102 years, in the real sense of the word, because over the course of a century, we’ve seen four generations make it bigger, stronger, protected it during difficult moments and celebrated in the many happy times.
“That is not all. Juve are part of a much, much bigger family. The Bianconeri family. It is made up of millions of fans in Italy and around the world, who love Juve the way they love those closest to them.
“It is precisely thinking about this passion, this history of love that unites us for over a century, that as a family we continue to support our team and look to the future to build a winning Juve.
“Our Juventus, our history, our values, are not for sale.”
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
While there had been reports in recent years that Exor were frustrated at the amount of money going into stabilising Juve coffers, especially in the wake of the accounting scandal over inflated transfer fees, they never really seemed amenable to the idea of selling the club.
Tether were only founded in 2014 and are a cryptocurrency company, who currently have an 11.52 per cent stake in Juventus and one member on the board of directors, Francesco Garino.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Allegri previewed tomorrow’s game at a pre-match press conference, primarily providing injury updates: “Leao won’t be available tomorrow, but will recover for the Supercopppa. Fofana has recovered, but I’ll leave him at home because he hasn’t trained at all. Athekame has been called up, Gimenez is working, and we hope to have him back as soon as possible,” Allegri said via Milan News.
“Sassuolo can make you struggle at any time, so we must have great respect and order in the defensive phase. If we wander around the pitch, they will cause trouble for you, and the game will become more complicated. Tomorrow we need a serious performance under every aspect; technically, physically and mentally.”
Christopher Nkunku started against Torino, but hasn’t yet scored in ten Serie A appearances.
“He must be more serene, because we all wanted him here,” Allegri said.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Abdoulaye Ndiaye of Parma during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“His teammates and the club trust him. I told him he has to smile more. If he does so, things will improve. He’s an important player with technical skills, and I’m convinced he’ll do excellent things.
“He has worked a lot. In Turin, we scored the third goal because he attacked the near post well, freeing he space for Pulisic. He has extraordinary technical qualities and can score goals.”
Allegri has been repeating that Milan’s main objective is to qualify for the Champions League, while Inter and Napoli are the favourites for the Serie A title.
“If I’m not wrong, they finished first and second last season, so normally they are the favourites,” he said.
“We’ve changed many players, and we’ve welcomed excellent players. We are at Milan, so we must have the ambition and the desire to give our best, knowing that we must return to the Champions League. Tomorrow, we need to make a further step forward. We are table leaders, but we still need many to reach our main target, which is to qualify for the Champions League.”
Is it an advantage for Milan not to be involved in any European competition?
“I’d be happy if I could play one game every three days and in the Champions League, because we work for this,” insisted Allegri.
“There are all these rumours about the advantages or disadvantages. I believe the advantage is to have a strong team with strong players, a strong club and an environment that can support physically, mentally and technically a game every three days; otherwise, you can’t be in a top team. I like to play in the Champions League, and we are working for this. I don’t think that playing one game every three days leads to worse preparation, but it’s possible.”
Santiago Gimenez is still injured and hasn’t yet scored in Serie A. Does it mean Milan will look for a new centre-forward in January?
“I must find solutions internally in a group of players who are offering it to me,” insisted Allegri.
“The club will keep an eye on the market, but we must focus on tomorrow’s game. Once we’ve done it, we’ll focus on the Supercoppa.”
MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Ardon Jashari of AC Milan in action during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Is Ardon Jashari ready to replace Luka Modric if the Croat needs to rest ahead of next week’s Supercoppa?
“Jashari has really improved. Tomorrow’s game is the closest one, so I’ll base my assessments on tomorrow’s match,” noted Allegri.
“After tomorrow’s game, we’ll see the dead ones, the ones who are alive and those who are wounded.”
Milan have won all their big games this season, but dropped points against teams in the bottom half of the table. Fikayo Tomori has had drops in focus, but Allegri refused to blame the Englishman.
“It’s not about Tomori. We all have it as a team. We conceded two goals against Torino, Pisa, Parma and Cremonese,” he said.
“There are situations we must improve; we can’t be two goals down after 12 minutes. It happens sometimes, but we must try to avoid it.
“This is a team that never complains about the work and what we ask them. They have a clear target, they want to seize the opportunity to stay at Milan and leave something important recorded in Milan’s history,” concluded the coach.
“We must remain focused without listening to what is being said. The target is to be in the top four on May 25 because, I repeat, Milan must play in the Champions League next season.”
Cristian Chivu insists Inter are ‘having a great season, despite what people say,’ as they prepare to face a revitalised Genoa under his old Roma teammate Daniele De Rossi. ‘The reality is different to the narrative.’
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 GMT at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, also known as Marassi.
Hakan Calhanoglu limped off midweek against Liverpool and “has not resumed training yet,” while Francesco Acerbi, Denzel Dumfries, Matteo Darmian, Tomas Palacios and Raffaele Di Gennaro are also out of action.
De Rossi has seen the Grifone surge up the standings since taking over from sacked Patrick Vieira and is hoping to keep that confidence going against an Inter side fresh from Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
Chivu stands up for his Inter record
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We need to be perfect, especially in terms of attitude against a team that found so much enthusiasm under a new coach,” said Chivu in his press conference.
“It has never been easy for Inter in this fixture, so we need to give it our all. I had four marvellous years at Roma, De Rossi was a captain without the armband, as Francesco Totti was still there at the time. I always admired his intelligence, he is a genuine guy who is very loyal.”
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool, and Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, embrace prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
How will Inter react to this feeling of profound injustice?
“With the same calm that marked my approach since the start of the season,” responded Chivu.
“We are aware that we’ve got to give our best every day, along with a little added focus, responsibility, passion and enjoyment.
“Despite what people say, in my view we are having a great season. It’s true, there are ups and downs, we’d like to remove the downs, but we are confident in our work.
“We are trying to learn from mistakes, but must not lose the confidence that we are having a great season. Excluding the Club World Cup, we have had 21 games where at most we got two halves wrong, but never a whole match.
“This squad wants to dominate and the reality on the field is different to the narrative that people want to paint about us.”
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of Internazionale, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Inter have lost practically all the ‘big’ games against strong opponents, despite often creating more opportunities and having the majority of possession.
“We started the season under a magnifying glass, people said we were failures and we were finished, but we are still up there and that is not to be taken for granted considering what was said over the summer.
“Of course we have margin for improvement, but we never wanted to lose our identity, our hunger, our desire to be dominant in Serie A and Europe. We are on the right track, and that is the most important thing.
“Some might say that we ought to be more negative and defensive, going for the draw, but I don’t want us to lose our identity.”
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Cristian Chivu head coach of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 02, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The best performance of Chivu’s Inter was only last week, demolishing Como 4-0 at San Siro, but the coach disagrees.
“In terms of effort, we actually did more against Liverpool. Of course, with all due respect for Como, Liverpool can afford to spend €150m for one player, so it’s a very different level.
“However, in terms of overall performance, we were not inferior to Liverpool, so I will keep and build on the good things I saw there.
“We have to talk about the reality. I’ve been at Inter in one way or another for 20 years, so expectations are different to reality,” added Chivu.
“I do not evaluate the growth process based on one victory or one defeat. I don’t like labels, and too many of them are placed on Inter.”
La Gazzetta dello Sport notes that Tether’s offer to buy Juventus is below the actual club’s value which is ‘realistically’ between €1.8 and 2 billion.
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Gazzetta examines the Bianconeri’s financial situation, describing the Serie A giants as a ‘sleeping giant’ with considerable assets, including a club-owned stadium and training centres worth €450m, but also a poor financial situation with losses of nearly one billion in the last eight years that forced club owners to make cash injections for over €900m.
When Andrea Agnelli became the club’s President in May 2010, Juventus’ stock market capitalisation was €162m, and it peaked to €1.5 billion in 2019, driven by the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo a year earlier. Currently, Juventus are valued at €915m on the Milan stock exchange.
Football Benchmark’s latest report gives Juventus a value of €1.651 billion; according to Forbes, the club’s worth is slightly higher at €1.9 billion. Realistically, according to Gazzetta, the range lies between €1.8 billion and €2 billion.
With their statement, however, Tether assigned to Juventus an equity value of €1.1 billion. Considering the financial debt of around €300m, the enterprise value would be €1.4 billion, according to the crypto giants, below market estimates.
Don’t forget that, back in 2022, Elliott sold Milan, who didn’t have a club-owned stadium, to RedBird for €1.2 billion, while more recently, Atletico Madrid’s majority stake was acquired by Apollo with an enterprise value of €2.5 billion.
Four Juventus four capital increases in recent years
SPA, BELGIUM – JULY 28: John Elkann, Chairman and CEO of Ferrari looks on, on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 28, 2024 in Spa, Belgium. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
Even if Juventus have solid assets, they’ve been falling short financially in recent years, accumulating €999m in losses between 2014-15 and 2024-25. Juventus have not been profitable for the past eight seasons, requiring four capital increases.
The last one worth €98 was completed just a few weeks ago, when Exor and Tether subscribed their stakes, 65.4% and 11.5% respectively, for a total of €77m, while the remainder came from institutional investors.
However, there have been positive signals in recent months as, last season, the deficit was cut to €58m compared to €199m from the previous financial year.
The updated business plan targets break-even by the end of the 2026-27 campaign, but that will largely depend on results on the pitch, with access to the big Champions League prize money, and the increase of the players’ worth.
Football Italia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà provides the latest transfer updates on Serie A-linked Mauro Icardi, Joshua Zirkzee, Kobbie Mainoo and Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca.
Milan will be looking for a new striker in the January transfer window, and Pedullà argued in his latest YouTube video for Football Italia that the Rossoneri should sign another striker next month, regardless of Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku, who have failed to match expectations this season.
Other media have linked Mauro Icardi, a former Inter captain, with a move to Milan. Pedullà says that the Argentine, whose Galatasaray contract expires in June 2026, was not offered to Milan through official sources, but perhaps other intermediaries held informal talks with the Rossoneri.
Icardi has offers from four countries
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – April 21: Como linked Mauro Icardi of Galatasaray celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray and Pendikspor at Rams Park on April 21, 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
Icardi has important offers from Mexico, Brazil, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Icardi isn’t yet 36, but he wants to wait. The request is a €10m salary.
As for Zirkzee, the Dutchman is a priority target for Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini, but Manchester United must sign another striker because Zirkzee has had more playing time recently, and the Red Devils are only open to selling the player for an appropriate transfer formula, which means not a loan with an option to buy.
GRIMSBY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 27: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United looks on during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Grimsby Town and Manchester United at Blundell Park on August 27, 2025 in Grimsby, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Mainoo’s situation is different because he’s younger than Zirkzee and is not getting much playing time at Old Trafford. The English midfielder is Napoli’s priority target in midfield for the January window.
Last but not least, the Partenopei won’t give away Lucca in the January window; they might allow him to leave on loan, but it will also depend on Romelu Lukaku’s fitness once he returns to action.
Tuttosport newspaper reports that Juventus are ready to make a new offer to extend Kenan Yildiz’s contract as the striker’s father, Engin, has landed in Turin.
Juventus are expected to continue talks over Yidiz’s contract extension in the coming days, according to Tuttosport.
The Turin-based paper claims that members of the Yildiz family have landed in Italy, and not just to spend holidays together.
Juventus set to resume Yildiz contract talks
Kenan Yildiz plays for Juventus away to Bodo/Glimt (@juventusfc)
The striker’s father Engin, in fact, is expected to meet with club directors for contract negotiations, helped by a well-known intermediary, Jorge Mendes.
Yildiz’s contract expires in June 2029, but the Bianconeri’s No.10 has now become a key player in the team, and his €1.5m salary does not reflect his status at the Allianz Stadium.
Yildiz’s salary request to Juventus
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 04: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between Juventus and Sporting Clube de Portugal at Juventus Stadium on November 04, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
According to the report, Yildiz’s salary request is €6m per season, a sum that Juventus are eager to match, possibly including easily achievable bonuses.
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 29: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC is tackled by Arthur Atta of Udinese Calcio during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Udinese Calcio at on October 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Yildiz, 20, has grabbed six goals and six assists in 20 appearances across all competitions this season.
According to Il Corriere dello Sport, Milan are among the clubs interested in Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus who will be looking for more playing time in the second part of the season.
Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus is the latest striker linked with a move to Milan in the January transfer window.
BRUGES, BELGIUM – DECEMBER 10: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal reacts after a missed chance during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Club Brugge KV and Arsenal FC at Jan Breydelstadion on December 10, 2025 in Bruges, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
According to Corriere dello Sport, Milan’s owners are unwilling to make a big investment in a new striker in the January window, but possible departures of Santiago Gimenez and Ruben Loftus-Cheek would help the Rossoneri finance the purchase of a new man in attack.
Gimenez’s transfer stance
Football Italia, however, understands that Gimenez is not considering leaving the club in the winter transfer window, at least for now.
If the situation were to change, Gabriel Jesus would be one of the Milan targets, according to Corriere dello Sport.
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 19: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan lies on the field during the Serie A match between AC Milan and ACF Fiorentina at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The 28-year-old has recently returned from an injury and wants to play consistently in the second part of the campaign, something he might not be given at Arsenal, given Mikel Arteta’s options in attack.
According to the report, Gabriel Jesus wants to have a chance to return to the Brazil national team for the 2026 World Cup, so he’ll be looking for more playing time next month.
The 28-year-old would earn just above €3m from January until the end of the season. The Brazilian’s contract at the Emirates Stadium runs out in June 2027.
The Agnelli family is unwilling to sell Juventus despite a €1.1 billion offer from minority shareholders Tether, so we take a closer look at the blockchain-enabled platform and its CEO, Paolo Ardoino.
Tether announced an offer to buy a majority stake in Juventus from Exor on Friday night, but received a firm reply from the Bianconeri owners: “Negotiations are not underway regarding the sale of a stake in Juventus,” a spokesperson for the Agnelli family told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
How do Tether make money?
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: General view inside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus and Napoli at on September 21, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Founded in 2014, the Tether cryptocurrency has grown massively over the last few years and its CEO, Paolo Ardoino, is a life-long Juventus supporter. Tether already holds an 11,52% stake in Juventus and is represented in the Juventus board of directors by Francesco Garino.
As reported by Gazzetta, the main difference between Tether and other popular cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, is its lower volatility.
Tether’s value is pegged to the US dollar, and its users appreciate it for its stability rather than the hope of profiting from market speculations.
Gazzetta explains that Tether has ‘built its success on its effectiveness in supporting international transactions without the involvement and costs of various intermediaries, such as banks.’
The company is headquartered in El Salvador and reported profits exceeding €13 billion in 2024. Tether’s core focus lies in cryptocurrencies, blockchains and technological innovation, including artificial intelligence.
As previously mentioned, its CEO, Paolo Ardoino, is a life-long Juventus supporter who has become increasingly popular among Bianconeri supporters on social media, especially X, thanks to his motto ‘Make Juventus great again.’
Gazzetta notes that the relationship between Tether and Exor has never been particularly solid. At times, Ardoino’s social media activity aimed to look for a collaboration with Exor, but other times, the Tether CEO has criticised the club and the team.
Exor unwilling to sell Juventus
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – MARCH 09: Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App RB embraces John Elkann on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 09, 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)
The abrupt public bid is unlikely to strengthen relations between the two sides, particularly given that Exor had already indicated, before Tether’s proposal, that it had no intention of selling the club in response to rumours of a potential offer from a Saudi investor.
This past November, Juventus owner John Elkann said: “We remain fully committed to Juventus and are proud to be its controlling shareholder for over a century. We are and have always been open to constructive ideas from all stakeholders who share our ambition and passion for the club.”
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario wants to join Inter next summer, but the Nerazzurri don’t want to pay more than €20m to sign the Italy international.
Italian goalkeeper Vicario is eager to join Inter next summer, according to the latest report of Gazzetta dello Sport.
Vicario wants Inter move
BILBAO, SPAIN – MAY 21: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur lifts the UEFA Europa League trophy after his team’s victory in the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
The pink paper had reported in November that Vicario wanted to leave Spurs at the end of the season and that the Nerazzurri were interested in securing his services.
Vicario is grateful to Tottenham but wants to return to Serie A in the summer, so the Nerazzurri will have to negotiate with Spurs, as the goalkeeper’s contract runs out in June 2028.
Vicario a long-time Inter target
BILBAO, SPAIN – MAY 21: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates with a Tottenham Hotspur flag after his team’s victory in the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
According to the report, however, Inter are unwilling to invest more than €20m to sign the former Empoli and Cagliari goalkeeper who was already a Nerazzurri target in 2023, before the 29-year-old completed a permanent move to North London.
Vicario has kept nine clean sheets in 22 Tottenham appearances this season.
He’s Italy second-choice keeper behind Gigio Donnarumma and has five international appearances to his name.
The crypto giants value the club at €1.1 billion. Exor: ‘It’s not for sale’
From Tether 725m for 65,4% of the club.
Vicario wants Inter
The Tottenham goalkeeper is getting closer. Dumfries’ warning.
Corriere dello Sport
Transfer market special
Gabriel Jesus, the bomb
The Arsenal centre-forward is back from an injury and can leave in January
Milan loom? Mainoo is open to Napoli. Lucca between Italy and abroad
Juve, Motta was better
Last season, they were closer to the top spot and had more points
The results in the opening 14 games have worsened with Tudor and Spalletti: fewer goals scored (18 to 22) and more vulnerable defence (14 to eight). Tether: ‘One billion ready for the club.’ Exor: ‘Not for sale.’
Lazio, Sarri looking for the tris: Cancellieri in the trident
De Rossi and Chivu, so many jokes
Tuttosport
Baroni, breakthrough or trouble
Under the eyes of the new director, the coach must send a strong signal after three consecutive losses. Lecce’s win over Pisa made the Granata slip to the 17th spot. Fans will protest against Cairo before the game.
One billion for Juve, Elkann says no
Tether’s offer will be rejected
The crypto company that has an 11,5% stake in the club aims for a majority stake. ‘Offer made with humility and a sense of belonging for the club and the fans.’ But Exor says no. Besides Ardoino’s move, there’s no confirmation regarding the desire to sell Juve. Yildiz’s family in Turin to negotiate the renewal. According to CIES, Kenan will be worth 140m in June.
‘De Rossi and Chivu two shy with success.’
Milan, Juve and Inter: ticket prices cap for the visitors
Lecce have taken a big step clear of the Serie A relegation places after an important 1-0 victory at home against Pisa in an early six-pointed on Friday evening: Nikola Stlic finally claiming his first goal since joining the Salentini from Charleroi over the summer.
Lecce made three alterations to their starting line-up following last week’s 2-0 loss against Cremonese, bringing in Francesco Camarda at centre-forward, Riccardo Sottil on the wing and Corrie Ndaba at left-back. The hosts were without the suspended M’Bala Nzola and replaced him with Stefano Moreo. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Isak Vural and Mehdi Leris were also called back into the starting XI.
LECCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 12: Tiago Gabriel competes for the ball with Adrian Semper of Pisa SC during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Pisa SC at Stadio Via del Mare on December 12, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Eusebio Di Francesco’s game plan didn’t get off to the best of starts when Medon Berisha hit the deck immediately after playing a pass out to the right wing seven minutes in. He was carried off on a stretcher and Mohamed Kaba was called in to replace him after just 10 minutes.
It was Lecce with the larger share of the attacks in the first half: Santiago Pierotti with the best opportunity after a cut-back from Riccardo Sottil on the byline.
The hosts also troubled Pisa from set-pieces in the first half. There were two close efforts from the same corner half an hour in, before Tiago Gabriel managed to head off target from just a few yards out before the interval.
In the end, it was Eusebio Di Francesco’s second-half substitutes that made the difference. Lameck Banda, on for Pierotti, carried the ball down the left flank and almost to the byline before cutting back for Stulic to tap home: His first Serie A goal on his 14th outing.
LECCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 12: Nikola Stulic celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Pisa SC at Stadio Via del Mare on December 12, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Tether, minority shareholders of Juventus, have announced that they have submitted an offer to purchase Exor’s majority stake in the club and that they intend to purchase the remaining shares to assume full ownership.
Tether announce plans to purchase Juventus in full
Tether increased their stake in the club in April, and it was reported at the time that they currently possess 10.12% of the club’s shares and 6.18% of the club’s voting rights.
Tether has announced on Friday evening that they have tabled a ‘binding all-cash proposal’ to purchase Exor’s shares in the club. Exor is the holding company owned and controlled by the Agnelli family, who have owned Juventus since 1923.
Currently, Exor holds 65.4% of the shares in Juventus. According to reports from Calcio e Finanza, Tether has offered a price of €2.66 per share, which equates to a total of around €1.1 billion.
Tether has announced that it intends to make a public offer for the remaining shares at the same price.
What Tether said about Juventus proposal
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Team of Juventus FC line up during the Serie A match against Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“Tether has submitted a binding all cash proposal to Exor to acquire its entire stake in Juventus Football Club,” a statement on Friday evening read.
“Subject to regulatory approvals, Tether intends to make a public offer for the remaining shares at the same price, fully funded with its own capital and supported by a long term commitment to the club.
“This proposal reflects a belief in Juventus as more than a football club. For generations, Juventus has stood for discipline, ambition, and the quiet strength of those who rebuild and move forward, season after season. It is a club that has shaped Italian sporting identity and earned the loyalty of supporters around the world.”
“For me, Juventus has always been part of my life,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “I grew up with this team. As a boy, I learned what commitment, resilience, and responsibility meant by watching Juve face success and adversity with dignity. Those lessons stayed with me long after the final whistle.
“Our interest in Juventus comes from deep admiration and respect. Juventus is a symbol of Italian excellence with a truly global presence, built over generations through hard work, ambition, and the unwavering loyalty of its supporters. These values mirror how we have built Tether, with patience, independence, and a focus on long term resilience.
“Tether is in a position of strong financial health and intends to support Juventus with stable capital and a long horizon. Our goal is to contribute positively to the club’s future, to support sporting performance at the highest level.
“This proposal is made with humility and a deep sense of responsibility toward the club, its supporters, and its legacy. We believe Juventus’ story is still being written, and that its next chapters can be defined by strength, continuity, and ambition.”
Tether’s statement continued: “The proposal contemplates the acquisition of Exor’s shareholding, representing 65.4 percent of Juventus’ issued share capital. Completion of the transaction would be subject to Exor’s acceptance, the execution of definitive documentation, and receipt of required regulatory approvals. Following completion, Tether intends to proceed with a public tender offer for the remaining shares at the same price per share.
“In the event that the transaction completes, Tether is prepared to invest 1 billion Euros in the support and development of the Club.
“Tether operates with a long term investment philosophy supported by a strong balance sheet and a focus on building resilient, globally relevant institutions. Further updates will be provided in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.”
Evan Ferguson scored his first ever goals in European competition with a brace for Roma against Celtic in the Europa League on Thursday night, but it has not all been smooth sailing for the Brighton loanee in the Italian capital.
From his year-long goal drought to rumours of a potential recall, here’s a look at how things have gone for him at the Stadio Olimpico and what the future might hold for the Republic of Ireland international.
Why has Ferguson struggled for consistency at Roma?
Ferguson joined Roma on loan with an option to buy, rumored to be for a fee in the region of €40m towards the end of the summer transfer window.
Official: Evan Ferguson joins Roma on loan with an option to buy from Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion (picture via www.asroma.com)
This is his second consecutive loan stint away from Brighton after an underwhelming spell with West Ham in the second half of the 2024-25 season, during which he failed to score a single competitive goal.
Roma, whose only other natural option at centre-forward is Artem Dovbyk, had been in dire need of attacking additions during the summer transfer window.
Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini made that clear on several occasions: “This is no excuse; it’s just the reality, and we can’t be hypocrites. Take a look at who left and who is missing. It’s just counting,” he said after a pre-season friendly against Kaiserslautern over the summer, just a few weeks before the start of the Serie A season.
In the end, Roma did make more additions before the close of the summer transfer window, Wesley, Daniele Ghilardi, Jan Ziolkowski and a loan deal for Kostas Tsimikas among them, but their only other attacking addition was Leon Bailey on loan from Aston Villa. Due to injury, the Jamaica international has only managed eight competitive appearances since joining Roma in August, only one of which was as a starter.
This means that Ferguson and Dovbyk have been Gasperini’s only natural options at centre-forward this season.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
And with no clear first choice, Gasperini has often rotated his options at centre-forward, with Paulo Dybala, Tommaso Baldanzi and Matias Soule all having been tried in false nine roles at various stages of the 2025-26 season.
It is easy to forget that Ferguson has only recently turned 21, and moving abroad, arriving late in the summer transfer window, and then having to adapt to a new culture, club, league, and style of play, and having the pressure of needing to bounce back after a tough 2024-25 season is not to be underestimated either.
Could Ferguson’s recent goals be the turning point at Roma?
Ferguson finally claimed his first competitive goal in Giallorossi colours on November 23, coming off the bench to grab Roma’s second in an eventual 3-1 win away against Cremonese in Serie A.
This was his first competitive goal in over a year, dating back to Brighton’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on October 26, 2024.
The 21-year-old has since added a European brace to his personal tally for 2025-26, tucking away two very well taken finishes in the first half of a 3-0 Europa League win over Celtic on Thursday night.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
It wasn’t just his finishing, but his movement and overall centre-forward play that earned him rave reviews for his performance at Celtic Park.
Football Italia expert Alfredo Pedullà agrees that Ferguson’s performance against Celtic could be the perfect springboard to revitalise his Roma career.
What to make of the recall rumours?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler did not deny those rumours when he spoke at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
“Evan is our player, that’s why he will always be an option,” he said. “Of course, now at the moment he is on loan but we follow him, we are pleased how he performed yesterday. Of course we all follow him, so definitely he might be an option.”
"Evan Ferguson is a player for us and he is always an option"
Fabian Hurzeler discusses the possibility of recalling Evan Ferguson from his loan at Roma and how he hopes that Mohamed Salah 'is not available' for Brighton's away trip against Liverpool pic.twitter.com/5BNG3BgIrq
So, it remains to be seen whether Ferguson will see out the rest of the 2025-26 campaign at the Stadio Olimpico, or whether he will return to Brighton, or perhaps be sent out on loan elsewhere.
What is becoming clear is that the run-up to Christmas and the January transfer window will be pivotal. If the Irishman is able to add another couple of goals to his record before then, it starts to look like a completely different situation.
And, if goals do start to become more of a regular occurrence, it begs the question, would Roma be able to find a guaranteed improvement, fit and ready to play, during the January transfer window with a tight budget and financial fair play regulations still to adhere to? It would certainly take quite the pull from Gasperini and Ricky Massara.
Milan’s Massimiliano Allegri has won the Serie A coach of the Month award for November.
“The Philadelphia Coach Of The Month award for November has been assigned to Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri,” Lega Serie A said on Friday.
Allegri wins Serie A coach of the Month award for November: official statement
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri looks on during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“The trophy will be presented during the pre-match of Milan vs Sassuolo, scheduled for Sunday, 14th December at 12.30 at the ‘Giuseppe Meazza’ Stadium in Milan.”
Lega Serie A explained that “for the final calculation were considered the matchdays from 10 to 13 of Serie A 2025/2026” and that “the award was assigned by a jury of Directors of sports media who evaluated each coach on the basis of technical and sporting criteria and the quality of play of their teams, as well as their behaviour/fair play during matches.”
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Lega Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo said: “The exciting head-to-head battle at the top of the league also leads to a constant competition between the great Serie A managers. In November, Massimiliano Allegri came out on top with 10 points from four games, keeping a clean sheet in all three of the direct clashes he won. The Tuscan coach has managed to get the best out of the players at his disposal, setting up a well-organised team capable of reading the different moments of the game. Allegri`s Milan are showing a winning mentality and a newfound awareness of their own abilities, characteristics necessary to fight for the top of the table until the end of the season”.
Football Italia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà insists Kobbie Mainoo is the player Napoli ‘appreciate the most’ in view of the 2026 January transfer window.
Napoli will be looking for midfield reinforcements next month, given that several key players will be forced to the sidelines with injuries for several weeks.
Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour, Frank Anguissa and Stanislav Lobotka are currently on the treatment table and are expected to miss many games for the Partenopei.
Latest Mainoo updates for Napoli
GRIMSBY, ENGLAND – AUGUST 27: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United looks on during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Grimsby Town and Manchester United at Blundell Park on August 27, 2025 in Grimsby, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
In his latest YouTube video for Football Italia, transfer expert Pedullà noted that Napoli director Giovanni Manna recently confirmed what we’ve been reporting for over a month about the Partenopei’s interest in Manchester United midfielder Mainoo.
“Mainoo’s name emerged from England in August, but there was no room to negotiate in the summer,” Pedullà said.
“Mainoo is the player Napoli are following more closely and appreciate the most.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United looks on ahead of the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage on August 24, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Mainoo, 20, has only made 11 appearances across all competitions this season, providing one assist. The England international has only collected 273 minutes of football on the pitch.
Currently, Eljif Elmas, Scott McTominay and Antonio Vergara are the only three central midfielders available for Napoli.
The Partenopei will visit Udinese in their next Serie A match on Sunday.
Christian Pulisic has scored seven Serie A goals this season with just ten shots on target, and even if stats suggest that he’s less involved in the play, the American has been as decisive as ever at San Siro.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The American star has netted seven goals in nine Serie A matches, nine in 12 games across all competitions.
Friday’s printed edition of Gazzetta dello Sport offers an interesting insight into how Pulisic has become so decisive for Milan this season.
Technically, Pulisic is used as one of the two Milan centre-forwards this term, while in the previous campaign, he mostly acted as a right winger.
However, heatmaps show that Pulisic is not necessarily playing in a more advanced position than last season, but he moves more towards the left, helped by the fact that he only started once alongside Rafael Leao.
Christian Pulisic’s heatmaps from Gazzetta dello Sport, Friday, December 12, page 5.
Pulisic has fewer passes, crosses, dribbles, fouls suffered and ball recoveries than last season; based on stats, he seems less involved in the play, but he’s way more lethal. The ex-Chelsea star only needed 14 total shots, ten on target, to score seven Serie A goals.
There’s also something intangible, which you won’t see in stats, and it’s his ability to be decisive when the team needs it. Pulisic, for example, scored winning goals in big games against Napoli and Inter before scoring two past Torino, helping Milan climb to the top of the Serie A table, level on 31 points with Napoli.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, West Ham striker Niclas Fullkrug is one of the names Milan will consider in the January transfer window, as the German wants to leave his club.
West Ham striker Fullkrug is one of the players on Milan’s agenda for the January transfer window, and the Rossoneri will consider a possible deal in the coming weeks.
Fullkrug on Milan’s agenda for January
Niclas Füllkrug of Germany celebrates as he acknowledges the fans after the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Switzerland and Germany at Frankfurt Arena on June 23, 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Fullkrug is unhappy at West Ham, where he has only started in five matches out of 15 and played just 28 minutes in the last two months.
The 32-year-old hasn’t found the net in nine appearances across all competitions this season.
The Italian newspaper reports that Fullkrug can leave on loan next month, even if West Ham paid €30m to sign him just 16 months ago, and the striker has also attracted interest from the Bundesliga.
Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United gestures during the warm up prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester United FC at Anfield on January 05, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Evan Ferguson’s brace against Celtic might be a turning point for the Republic of Ireland international, but Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini will still need reinforcements in January.
Ferguson finally unlocked himself in the Europa League, scoring a fine brace away at Celtic and showing the movements of a true centre-forward.
Possible Ferguson turning point at Roma
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Gasperini had motivated and pushed him on the eve of the match, and he was repaid in the best possible way. Ferguson is a young player; he’s coming back from an injury and has undeniable quality. Gasperini demands consistency and intensity from him.
Under Gasp, static centre-forwards will never be quite successful, and Thursday’s performance in Glasgow might be a turning point.
Gasperini’s transfer requests to Roma
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – APRIL 01: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on as he walks out of the tunnel to inspect the pitch prior to during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Manchester United FC at City Ground on April 01, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Gasperini could agree to part ways with one of his centre-forwards to sign another one, provided that he gets a plug-in player and not another gamble like the one proposed to him at the end of August.
After the 3-0 win over Celtic, Gasperini didn’t want to go deeper into transfer market matters; as it’s an issue that has bothered him since last summer.
A controversial Dominik Szoboszlai penalty allowed Liverpool to beat Inter in a Champions League match at San Siro on Tuesday.
Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni was punished for pulling Florian Wirtz’s shirt, and the German’s dramatic fall led to a VAR pitchside review that ultimately awarded the decisive spot-kick to the Reds.
Lautaro: Inter ‘disappointed but not angry’ after loss vs. Liverpool
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale competes for the ball with Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool FC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Liverpool FC at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We are disappointed but not angry,” Lautaro told Gazzetta.
“Because if you lose due to a referee’s mistake, there’s not much you can do. We’re upset that we threw everything away because of an injustice. If penalties were given for every shirt pull, the game would never be played.”
Inter have lost two Champions League Finals in the last three years and suffered a huge blow this past May when they succumbed to a 5-0 defeat to PSG in Munich.
Have they entirely recovered from it?
“Defeats hurt a lot, but make you grow. I get really angry when I lose, but I also have to consider the quality of the opponent,” argued Lautaro.
“Anyway, we started again. Maybe some results haven’t been positive, but it takes time. There’s a new coach who is giving us a lot of energy. Maybe it’s not visible from the outside, but we know we are improving day by day.”
Lautaro Martinez revealed he recently began seeing a psychologist to help him stay balanced.
“I’m very happy I trusted a professional; it helped me a lot,” said the Inter captain.
“I understood that if someone attacks me, it’s often because they would like to be in my place. When I was young, I used to struggle with reading or hearing harsh words about me. Now I face them with more calm, and I enjoy my career.”
Lautaro: ‘No reason to leave’ Inter
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 26: Lautaro Martinez of Internazionale looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadio Metropolitano on November 26, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Inter are just one point below Serie A leaders Milan and Napoli. Are they going to be their main rivals for the Scudetto?
“I’d include Roma too; they have a coach I really like,” Lautaro argued.
The Argentine star’s contract at San Siro expires in June 2029.
“My family and I feel very good here; we’ve set down roots in Milan. I’ve just signed a new contract, so I have no reason to leave,” Lautaro concluded.
Tuttosport newspaper reports that Davide Frattesi’s agent has held preliminary talks with Juventus as the Inter midfielder seeks more playing time.
Juventus have reportedly resumed talks with Beppe Riso, the agent of Inter midfielder Frattesi.
The Italy international has been struggling with playing time this season, falling down Cristian Chivu’s pecking order.
Frattesi seeks more playing time
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Billy Gilmour of SSC Napoli battles for possession with Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
According to Tuttosport, the midfielder’s representative recently held talks with the Old Lady, who had already set her sights on the 26-year-old in previous years.
The Turin-based paper reports that Frattesi’s agent met Juventus representatives at the club’s headquarters.
TURIN, ITALY – DECEMBER 02: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, looks on prior to the Serie C match between Ternana Calcio and Juventus Next Gen at Allianz Stadium on December 02, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Even if those directly involved described the meeting as a courtesy visit, it’s highly possible that the two parties made an initial approach ahead of the January transfer window.
Frattesi has only collected 480 minutes of football across all competitions this season, providing two assists in Coppa Italia against Serie B side Venezia.
Strong bond between Frattesi and Spalletti
Italy’s midfielder #07 Davide Frattesi scores his team first goal during the International friendly football match between Italy and Bosnia-Herzegovina in Empoli on June 09, 2024. (Photo by Isabella BONOTTO / AFP) (Photo by ISABELLA BONOTTO/AFP via Getty Images)
However, his contract expires in June 2028 and Inter will be reluctant to sell the midfielder to a direct rival, so their asking price won’t be below €35m.
Frattesi is open to leaving Inter next month and is on good terms with Luciano Spalletti. The Inter midfielder was the best Italy scorer during the Tuscan coach’s tenure, finding the net seven times.
Fabio Capello argues that Antonio Conte is unable to convey ‘strength’ and ‘calmness’ to his Napoli team in the Champions League: ‘It’s a psychological issue.’
The Partenopei have lost three games from three away from home in Europe this season, conceding 10 goals far from the Stadio Maradona.
Their latest loss came against José Mourinho’s Benfica on Wednesday.
“Maybe Conte isn’t able to transmit that calmness and strength to the players the way he does in the league,” Capello told Gazzetta.
Capello on Conte and Napoli’s ‘psychological issue’
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Antonio Conte SSC Napoli head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Atalanta BC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 22, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The former Italian coach feels that Napoli’s poor results in the Champions League are not determined by tactical problems.
“I don’t think so. If you dominate in Italy or England, leagues where Conte has won, it means you’re providing something positive in terms of your playing system,” he argued.
“In my opinion, it’s more of a psychological issue.
“When you play in European competitions, you have to be convinced of your strength, find a certain calmness and take risks without being afraid to be bold,” he continued.
“Maybe, Antonio, judging by the results he gets in Europe, isn’t able to transmit this to the team.”
Napoli will visit Copenhagen and host Chelsea in the last two league phase games in January 2026.
The Partenopei will need at least one victory to secure a spot in the knockout playoff.
In the last Champions League round, Inter lost to Liverpool at home, while Juventus and Atalanta beat Pafos and Chelsea, respectively.
Capello: Easier to recover for Premier League teams
Fabio Capello (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
“In the last matchday, I saw that we struggled to cope with the opponents’ intensity. Inter, for example, had difficulties against Liverpool in terms of aggression, even if they would have deserved a draw,” Capello concluded.
“Also, maybe other teams have more well-equipped squads than ours. Manchester City, for example, replaced Haaland and Foden within 20 minutes, introducing players of equal quality (Reijnders and Marmoush).
“Above all, Premier League teams are more accustomed than ours to handling a double schedule, and they find it less tiring to recover because they are used to always playing at a very high pace, so when they play at a slightly lower tempo, they are already at the level of our maximum.”
The Croatian star, a 2018 Ballon d’Or winner, spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport about his first few months in Milan.
Modric, 40, joined the Rossoneri as a free agent from Real Madrid last summer and has started 14 league games in a row at San Siro.
“I feel good, physically and mentally, and I like what I do. I want to keep going like this because I’m having fun. Everything is going the way I wanted,” he said.
Milan are not involved in any European competition this season and are joint Serie A table leaders alongside Napoli.
Modric: Serie A ‘tough and competitive’
UDINE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Luka Modric of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on September 20, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“We are doing a good job, and the goal is not to stop, even though many teams are fighting for the top spot. It’s tough, but we move forward with confidence,” Modric said.
“From abroad, one might not realise how difficult Serie A is, but I assure you that your league is very tough and competitive. I wasn’t surprised because I was prepared: I’ve known it since I was a kid when I watched it on TV, and I’ve kept following it over the years. I knew what I would find, and I was ready.
“I’m happy because I play for what is, to me, the biggest Italian club of all. I enjoy myself every day at Milanello and every time I wear the Rossoneri shirt,” Modric continued.
“I never thought I would come to Milan until I was at Real Madrid, but sometimes in life, things happen when you least expect them. It was a dream come true because I was a Milan fan since I was a child.”
Modric: ‘Allegri a great coach and a winner’
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Croatia international is glad to work under Allegri.
“He’s a great coach, a winner. I enjoy working with him, and he surprised me with his personality,” he said.
“He has an amazing ability to create a good feeling in the dressing room because he’s used to managing great champions. He helps you to give your best and keeps you calm, so it’s easier to do what you need to do.”
Modric is also enjoying life off the pitch in Italy.
“My family and I feel good here. I understand Italian too, but let’s say I speak other languages better. Croatian, English and Spanish. Little by little, I’ll learn Italian too.”
Milan will host Sassuolo at San Siro in the next Serie A match on Sunday.
Next week, they’ll fly to Saudi Arabia to play in the Supercoppa Italiana Final Four, meeting defending Serie A champions Napoli in the semifinal on Thursday, December 18.
The Rossonero: ‘Allegri knows how to manage stars, this Milan is a great dream.’
The Nerazzurro: ‘I’ve never been so strong, Inter are full of energy.’
Corriere dello Sport
Europa League and Conference: nine points in three games
Roma, Bologna and Viola: our ranking enjoys it
Ferguson’s brace, Gasp beats Celtic 3-0. Bernardeschi (two goals) knocks Celta down. Italiano wins 2-1. Kean and Gud: 2-1 to Dinamo.
Spalletti prisoner
Injuries and the system
Vlahovic’s injury and the infeasibility of switching to a four-man defence immediately.
He has another Juve in his head
Heavy absences and missing roles, but he’s only lost one game from nine. From Bremer to the growth process: Lucio projects the leap. David’s exam.
Lecce, DiFra calls Camarda
Survival showdown with Gilardino: Stulic out, the baby in. Morente for Pierotti.
Milan, Fulkrug, if Gimenez leaves
Loftus-Cheek is also on his way out in January, with moves for the German.
Tuttosport
Toro: the new director warns everyone, including the coach
Petrachi’s shake: ‘Baroni can and must give more’
Spalletti-Frattesi: Shall we try again?
Contact between Juve and the agent of the Inter midfielder, a trusted man of the coach in the national team.
The former CT would welcome Davide with open arms. The price is high, 35m, but his agent Riso talks about it with Comolli, eager to raise the quality in midfield. Meantime, the screams of the Bianconeri coach shake the Bianconeri dressing room. David challenges shyness off the pitch, the weight of the salary and Vlahovic’s ‘phantom.’ Those silences of the fans at the Allianz Stadium: behind the scenes.
Inter SOS defence: there’s Gila for Chivu
In January, Ausilio has 20m to 24m available and Lazio need to sell. Mlacic is in the frame, too.
Bernardeschi’s show: message to Juve
Bologna’s comeback win against Celta (2-1): the former Bianconero books a spot for Sunday. Super Roma at Celtic’s home:3-0. Kean and Gudmundsson get the Viola back up: 2-1 to Dinamo Kyiv.
Morata risks a three-month stop. Thrilling Pisa-Lecce tonight.
Italy have stepped even further clear of Spain, but are still locked in a battle with Germany for an additional spot in next season’s Champions League after the conclusion of Thursday night’s Europa and Conference League ties.
It was a step in the right direction for Italy’s hopes of securing an additional Champions League spot for 2026-27, as all the Serie A representatives secured victories on Thursday night.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Matias Soule of AS Roma celebrates with teammates, after Liam Scales of Celtic (not pictured) concedes an own goal resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Where Italy stands in race for extra Champions League spot
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: The UEFA Champions League trophy is cleaned as it is displayed on a plinth at the side of the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The situation leaves Italy in third place in the UEFA seasonal association coefficient rankings. This is what is used to determine which two nations receive an additional Champions League spot.
The UEFA tables are expected to be officially updated on Friday, but figures provided by Sky Sport Italia show that Italy will be in third place on 11.071 points, behind Germany in second on 11.660 points and England in first with 13.166 points.
Spain are in fourth with 10.609 points, with Portugal slightly behind them in fifth on 10.600 points.
Gian Piero Gasperini insists that patience is the key for Evan Ferguson and Roma’s young players after their 3-0 victory away against Celtic in the Champions League on Thursday evening: ‘You play against different sorts of teams in Europe compared to Italy’.
The Giallorossi got back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory away against Celtic in Europe on Thursday evening: An own goal from Liam Scales sending them ahead after six minutes, which was added to by a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson. Those were the Irishman’s first goals in European competition.
Gasperini reacts to Celtic 0-3 Roma: ‘It’s never easy to win away’
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Matias Soule of AS Roma celebrates with teammates, after Liam Scales of Celtic (not pictured) concedes an own goal resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“It’s never easy to win away, on these beautiful, historic pitches,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia after full-time.
“Pisilli, Ferguson and all the other changes put in good performances. They give us an option to expand the squad. This is a moment in which we need to make important assessments, and we have to make them in games that matter.
“Playing here isn’t easy. They were coming off a series of victories. You have to play against different sorts of teams in Europe compared to in Italy. As a result, you can end up against very strong strikers. It’s a different type of football in Europe.”
Gasperini was asked what he made of Ferguson’s performance. The 21-year-old is on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion with a hefty option to buy, but there have already been suggestions that Roma could look to terminate his deal ahead of schedule. A brace this evening is a step in the right direction, though.
“During the game. he did what he often does in training. He’s a young lad and we have to be patient,” Gasperini said. “His second goal was beautiful. His performance was great, and it’s important that he plays with this spirit and shows his qualities.”
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
And on Roma’s potential business in the January transfer window, Gasperini added: “We have to be patient. These young guys could come good. Maybe it’s better that way rather than relying on the market. We’ll talk about the January window moving forwards, now, we have several important games to play.”
How will Roma cope with losing Neil El Aynaoui and Evan Ndicka for the Africa Cup of Nations?
“We’ll know (when they’ll leave) tomorrow, both for El Aynaoui and Ndicka. We would like to have them with us for the game against Como, but either way, we will have other matches where we’re left without two key figures. We’ve seen tonight that they’re both important. I’m happy for Pisilli in midfield, he’s growing and doing well. I’m happy for him.”
Evan Ferguson and Matias Soule were among the standout performers during Roma’s 3-0 victory over Celtic in Glasgow in the Europa League on Thursday evening, a result which has sent the Giallorossi into 10th place in the league table.
An own-goal from Liam Scales six minutes in followed by a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson were enough for Roma to claim a comfortable victory, despite a missed penalty from Arne Engels and each side having a goal ruled out for offside in the second half.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Liam Scales of Celtic concedes an own goal, resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Best Celtic player: Kelechi Iheanacho 6 – Celtic’s game only really got going in the second half, when they were already 3-0 down and after a triple substitution at the break. Iheanacho, recently returned from injury, was a bright spark for the hosts when he came on and looked determined to get his name on the scoresheet. He will be frustrated to have seen his effort ruled out for offside 65 minutes in. Who knows, there might have been enough time left for Celtic to make Roma start feeling uneasy at that point.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic scores his team a goal as Mile Svilar of AS Roma fails to make a save, which is disallowed following a VAR review during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Coach: Wilfrid Nancy 5 – A night to forget on his first European match in charge of Celtic. Enormously frustrating for him to see his side go 1-0 down through a set-piece six minutes in, and it then seemed difficult for the hosts to match Celtic’s intensity. Too many slip-ups on the ball and in their own half, which Roma were able to punish.
Best Roma player: Evan Ferguson 7.5 – A really well deserved brace for the Irishman, his first ever goals in European competition, who applied two very well-taken finishes to claim his first-half double. It was an energetic and battling performance from the Giallorossi loanee, who now has three goals in his last five appearances across all competitions. Only two of those have been starts.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Coach: Gian Piero Gasperini 7.5
Despite making wholesale changes and leaving out big names in Paulo Dybala and Manu Kone, Roma were right at it from the off, played with great intensity and did not panic after taking such an early lead in the sixth minute. It was the near-perfect first-half performance, the only fault being the penalty that Mario Hermoso gave away in the dying moments. It was a task in game management in the second half, and Roma will have been relieved to have seen Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal ruled out for offside. Overall, a great response after their disappointment against Cagliari in Serie A over the weekend.
Football Italia’s Player of the Match was Bologna hero Federico Bernardeschi.
Celta Vigo 1-2 Bologna – Player Ratings
Celta Vigo: Radu 5.5; Rodriguez 5, Starfelt 5.5, Ristic 6; Carreira 5.5, Beltran 6, Morbia 6, Mingueza 6.5; Swedberg 7, Iglesias 5.5, Zaragoza 7
Best Celta Vigo player: Williot Swedberg – Looked really dangerous and helped create Zaragoza’s goal. Contributed in both attack and defence and gave a really good showing of himself.
Lowest Celta Vigo rating: Javi Rodriguez – Sloppy to give away the penalty that brought Bologna back into the game.
VIGO, SPAIN – DECEMBER 11: Federico Bernardeschi celebrates scoring his team’s second goal as Ilaix Moriba of Celta Vigo looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Real Club Celta and Bologna FC 1909 at Estadio Balaidos on December 11, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Coach: Claudio Giraldez 5.5 – His side offered little to no answers to Bologna‘s dominance other than to hope for the best. Completely outmatched in midfield and this is where the game was lost.
Best Bologna player: Federico Bernardeschi – Led by example from the wing today, showing his experience and composure to propel his side to all three points. Scored twice and was a constant threat on the right flank.
VIGO, SPAIN – DECEMBER 11: Federico Bernardeschi celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match at Estadio Balaidos on December 11, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Lowest Bologna rating: Ravaglia – Player of the Match at the weekend against Lazio, he’s only the lowest rated here by process of elimination. Maybe could have done better for Zaragoza’s opener.
Coach: Vincenzo Italiano 7.5 – Made some solid changes and set up his team very well to dominate Celta Vigo. The La Liga side are no pushovers, beating Real Madrid at the weekend, and Italiano made them look very weak.
Roma are closing in on a spot in the Europa League knock-out rounds after a largely dominant 3-0 victory away against Celtic in Glasgow on Thursday evening: A Liam Scales own goal and a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson sending Gian Piero Gasperini’s side on their way to victory.
Roma had slipped to two consecutive defeats in Serie A prior to kick-off, their last victory in any competition coming in the 2-1 victory over Midtjylland in November. Gasperini gave Evan Ferguson the nod up front, alongside the club he supported growing up, with Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone and the returning Angelino named among the substitutes.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Liam Scales of Celtic concedes an own goal, resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Zeki Celik won Roma their first corner of the game five minutes in. Gianluca Mancini initially tried to claim that it was his header from Matias Soule’s delivery that took it past Kasper Schmeichel, but replays showed that it was actually a Liam Scales own-goal that sent the Giallorossi into an early lead in Glasgow.
The Giallorossi were the dominant force in the first half, registering eight shots in the opening 45 minutes, three of which were on target. Soule, Stephan El Shaarawy and Nicolo Pisilli all had a go midway through the first period.
Their lead was doubled 10 minutes before the interval, Zeki Celik was freed on the right-hand side of the area and supplied the perfect low ball in for Ferguson, who just had to steer it in inside the six-yard box for 2-0.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Gasperini’s side would claim their third on the stroke of half-time following a wonderful passage of possession in the final third. Soule was involved again, providing a brilliantly improvised ball in from the edge of the area, which Ferguson was able to turn in from 10 yards out.
It looked as though the first half’s action was done after that, only for Mario Hermoso to bring down Arne Engels in the area on the following attack.
There were several minutes of protests and delays from the Giallorossi, which saw El Shaarawy and Soule booked, but that might just have worked out in their favour as Engels struck the left upright when he was finally cleared to take the spot-kick.
The hosts elected to make three changes at half-time, and saw an immediate shift in momentum: Kelechi Iheanacho, recently returned from injury, looked bright and determined.
The Nigerian thought he had clawed one back, prodding home in similar fashion to Ferguson in the first half, but he was eventually flagged for a slight offside. 3-0 Roma it remained.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic scores his team a goal as Mile Svilar of AS Roma fails to make a save, which is disallowed following a VAR review during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Roma would also see another chalked off before full-time. Leon Bailey thought he had claimed his first Giallorossi goal with a well taken finish into the far corner inside the area, but he was also punished for an offside in the build-up.
Tonight’s result sees Roma climb up to 10th place in the Europa League table, just one point outside the all-important top eight with two games against Stuttgart and Panathinaikos left to play before the end of the league phase.
Bologna fought back from 1-0 down to win 2-1 against Celta Vigo on a very rainy night in Galicia.
The hosts took the lead after an incisive counter attack, with Bryan Zaragoza putting the La Liga side 1-0 up heading into the half-time interval. However, a second half penalty came shortly after a disallowed Bologna goal and Federico Bernardeschi converted it confidently.
With more life in them after the equaliser, Bologna went after the winner and were rewarded when Bernardeschi doubled his tally with a calm finish.
Bologna must now focus on their remaining two games as they face Celtic and Maccabi Tel Aviv in January.
VIGO, SPAIN – DECEMBER 11: Federico Bernardeschi celebrates scoring his team’s second goal as Ilaix Moriba of Celta Vigo looks dejected during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match at Estadio Balaidos on December 11, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Celta Vigo 1-2 Bologna – First half counter stuns dominant Rossoblu
For much of the first half, Bologna were the better side.
Vincenzo Italiano’s men were dominant in possession and spent much of the first forty-five minutes inside Vigo’s half. However, the Galician side’s defence were resolute, aside from a minor scare that allowed Jonathan Rowe to poke the ball wide after a dangerous piece of pressing from the Englishman.
In fact, Bologna’s press looked good for most of the half, except for when it allowed Vigo to spring forward and take the lead, much against the run of play.
However, Italiano’s side suffocated Vigo and the La Liga outfit really struggled to get the ball out of their half. However, unlike Bologna, they capitalised on their first chance of the game, to lead heading into the break.
VIGO, SPAIN – DECEMBER 11: Federico Bernardeschi celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match at Estadio Balaidos on December 11, 2025 in Vigo, Spain. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Bernardeschi inspires second half comeback
Bologna thought they had equalised around the hour mark when a nice ball from Moro found Bernardeschi out on the right, who squared the ball for Pobega to score. However, Moro’s ball was judged to have been offside and Bologna were back to square one.
However, minutes later, the Rossoblu got their lucky break. After a foul in the box, the referee blew for a penalty before the offside flag went up, judging Pobega to have been offside before he was fouled.
A quick VAR check put this right, however, and Bernardeschi comfortably equalised from the spot.
With renewed spirit, it was not long until the experienced Italian found himself through on goal once again and calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net to put his side in the lead.
Vigo, looking tired from defending for a majority of the match, had nothing more to offer and Bologna saw out the rest of the match for a vital three points.
Fiorentina were able to put their Serie A misfortunes behind them to claim their third Conference League victory of the campaign with a 2-1 win at home against Dynamo Kyiv on Thursday evening: Moise Kean, Mykola Mykhaylenko and Albert Gudmundsson with the goals.
Paolo Vanoli and his Viola side were nine games without a win across all competitions ahead of kick-off. He turned to Edin Dzeko to partner Kean at centre-forward, the Bosnian also taking the captain’s armband in the absence of Luca Ranieri. There were also wholesale changes in midfield, with Amir Richardson, Hans Nicolussi Caviglia and Cher Ndour coming in to start.
FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 11: Milos Milanovic referee during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 11, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina had their fair share of chances in the opening quarter: Dzeko rose well in the area after six minutes but wasn’t quite able to keep his header under the bar.
The hosts couldn’t believe they hadn’t scored 17 minutes in when Dzeko was allowed to fire off a powerful half-volley in the area following a corner. His effort looked goal-bound but was accidentally blocked by Kean on the edge of the six-yard box. The Italian then saw his shot saved by the feet of goalkeeper Ruslan Neshcheret.
Fiorentina would find the lead a minute later. It was a centre-forward’s dream for Kean, who was unmarked in the area and just had to time his jump and aim his header in the right direction after a perfect delivery in from the right flank from Dodo.
FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 11: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 11, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It took a second-half screamer for Dynamo Kyiv to draw level. Mykhaylenko, afforded slightly too much time from 25 yards out, unleashed a thunderbolt which rocketed past David De Gea and into the right-hand corner of the net.
FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 11: Mykola Mykhaylenko of Dynamo Kyiv celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between ACF Fiorentina and FC Dynamo Kyiv at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 11, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It was Vanoli’s second-half substitutions that got him out of trouble this evening: He made three of them two thirds of the way through, Gudmundsson, Christian Kouame and Fabiano all introduced.
Gudmundsson’s impact was immediate. He had three shots within the space of a few minutes before putting La Viola back into the lead.
Kean steered Parisi’s cross on goal, drawing a fantastic save out of Neshcheret, but the keeper was still on the floor when the Icelander popped up in the middle of the area to poke home the rebound.
Fiorentina should have put the game beyond any doubt with two minutes of regular time left to play, but Kean’s shot found the goalkeeper’s legs when he burst into the area almost one-on-one.
This evening’s result temporarily sends Fiorentina up to seventh place in the Conference League standings, albeit with the majority of this week’s fixtures still left to play.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Neil El Aynaoui celebrates with his teammates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Ferguson comes in to lead the line alongside Matias Soule and Stephan El Shaarawy against Celtic this evening. Paulo Dybala starts among the substitutes, as do Leon Bailey, Manu Kone and Kostas Tsimikas. Angelino has been declared fit enough for a spot among the substitutes.
Celtic vs. Roma: Confirmed line-ups
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Thijs Dallinga celebrates after scoring his team second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on November 27, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Vigo vs Bologna – Lineups
Bologna have lined up with Jonathan Rowe starting on the wing, Santiago Castro as the centre-forward. Moro wears the captain’s armband and Ravaglia returns to the goal after his impressive performance against Lazio at the weekend.
UDINE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Federico Ravaglia makes a save against Jurgen Ekkelenkamp of Udinese during the Serie A match at Stadio Friuli on November 22, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Paolo Vanoli turns to Edin Dzeko to accompany Moise Kean in attack for Fiorentina’s Conference League clash at home against Dynamo Kyiv on Thursday evening.
Tonight’s game at the Stadio Artemio Franchi kicks off at the earlier time of 17.45 GMT.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Paolo Vanoli reacts during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between ACF Fiorentina and AEK Athens FC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on November 27, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Dzeko is called in to replace Albert Gudmundsson in attack this evening. Wholesale changes have been made in midfield, with Amir Richardson, Hans Nicolussi Caviglia and Cher Ndour coming in for Simon Sohm, Nicolo Fagioli and Rolando Mandragora.
Luca Ranieri and Pablo Mari are also rested at the back, with opportunities for Marin Pongracic and Mattia Viti instead.
Fiorentina vs. Dynamo Kyiv: Confirmed line-ups
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Edin Dzeko of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between ACF Fiorentina and AEK Athens FC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on November 27, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
A couple of shot-stoppers have been offered to the Rossoneri, but the club didn’t want to discuss them in detail, so it’s not even worth naming them.
Maignan’s Milan extension: latest updates
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 28: Mike Maignan of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at New Balance Arena on October 28, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan are stitching back together the rift from several months ago, when renewal talks collapsed due to some back-and-forth over figures.
At that stage, the debate was tied to a dip in performance from the France international and Maignan’s camp didn’t take it well.
As the goalkeeper has demonstrated in the first months of the season, there’s little to argue about regarding his quality.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Mike Maignan of AC Milan celebrates after the Serie A match between AC Milan and SSC Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri is adopting the same strategy he used with Adrien Rabiot a few months back, when the Italian convinced the midfielder to move to San Siro from Marseille.
As long as Milan have a chance to renew with Maignan, they will not delve deeper into discussions with possible alternatives.
Multiple sources in Italy claim that Inter star Denzel Dumfries has picked Ali Barat as his new agent, fuelling speculation of a possible move to the Premier League.
Inter right-back Dumfries has changed his agent, picking Ali Barat in place of Jorge Mendes, according to Gazzetta and Calciomercato.com.
Dumfries picks new agent
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of Netherlands stands for the national anthem prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Netherlands and Poland at De Kuip on September 04, 2025 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Both reports imply that the Dutchman’s latest move is intended to position himself for a potential transfer to other clubs in the future, particularly in the Premier League, where Ali Barat has strong connections.
ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 04: Denzel Dumfries of the Netherlands holds his wrist as he appears injured after scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Netherlands and Poland at De Kuip on September 04, 2025 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Dumfries is contracted with Inter until June 2028 and has a €25m clause that is only valid in the first two weeks of July.
This means that if any club want to sign the 29-year-old in January, Inter will be free to negotiate any transfer fee.
West Ham already sounded out Dumfries
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Denzel Dumfries (R) of FC Internazionale celebrates with his team-mates after scoring their team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
West Ham already approached Dumfries in the past, but Gazzetta warns that the defender would only consider joining top sides.
‘If a team of West Ham’s level arrives (as it happened already), Dumfries will stay in Milan,’ wrote the pink paper.
Dumfries is currently out of action due to an ankle injury and is not expected to return before January 2026.
English striker Vardy has become the first Englishman to be named Player of the Month in Serie A.
Vardy named as best Serie A player in November
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Jamie Vardy of Cremonese reacts during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Cremonese at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 01, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The EA SPORTS FC Player Of The Month award for November has been assigned to Cremonese player Jamie Vardy. The fans’ votes online, combined with individual statistical data, determined Jamie Vardy as the winner, beating champions like Maignan (Milan), Lautaro Martinez (Inter), Neres (Napoli), Ostigard (Genoa), Zaniolo (Udinese),” Lega Serie A said in a statement on Thursday.
“The six best players of the month have been selected, taking into account the advanced analysis of Kama Sport, created from the tracking data recorded with the Hawk-Eye system. The rating system considers not only statistical data and technical events, but also positional data. This makes it possible to analyse crucial aspects such as movement without the ball and thus optimal movements, game choices, and the contribution to the technical and physical efficiency of the team, which allow for an objective and qualitative evaluation of the performance.
CREMONA, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Atalanta BC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on October 25, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Lega Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo said: “Jamie Vardy is truly a player from another era. One of those talents who, with their history, their achievements and the indomitable spirit with which they live every match, best express the romance of football. His arrival at Cremonese, who were quick to seize the opportunity this summer, was greeted with great enthusiasm by all Serie A fans, and Vardy is repaying them with top-level performances, innate leadership and important goals, the result of the competitive spirit and shooting skills that have always distinguished him”.
Inter say that Francesco Acerbi has suffered a ‘strain in his right thigh’ and, according to reports in Italy, he’ll remain out of action for circa one month, while Hakan Calhanoglu could return in time for next week’s Supercoppa.
PISA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Michel Aebischer of Pisa Sporting Club in action against Francesco Acerbi of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and FC Internazionale at Arena Garibaldi on November 30, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“Francesco Acerbi underwent a medical examination at the Istituto Humanitas di Rozzano this morning. The tests revealed a muscle strain in his right thigh,” the Nerazzurri said on Thursday.
According to Sky Sport Italia (via Calciomercato.com), it’s predictable that Acerbi will be forced to the sidelines for at least one month, given the nature of his injury.
This means that the Italy international will miss next week’s Supercoppa Italiana Final Four.
Latest Calhanoglu injury updates
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Calhanoglu was also subbed off due to an injury against Liverpool, but in his case, the Nerazzurri doctors didn’t order medical examinations, as the Turkish star is only dealing with a minor fitness problem.
Nevertheless, Calhanoglu is still expected to miss the next Serie A match against Genoa and return to action for the Supercoppa next week.
The Champions League Round 6 is in the history books, and we take a look at how many points Atalanta, Inter, Juventus and Napoli need to qualify for the next phase.
Juventus and Atalanta beat Pafos and Chelsea, respectively, in the latest round of the league phase of the Champions League, while Inter lost at home against Liverpool and Napoli were beaten by Benfica.
Currently, the best-ranked Serie A club in the Champions League table is Atalanta with 13 points, one more than Inter.
Champions League: Atalanta, Inter, Juventus and Napoli overview
Oddly, La Dea are the lowest-ranked in Serie A among the clubs competing in this season’s Champions League, as they sit 5th in the European competition and 12th domestically.
As reported by Gazzetta, Atalanta are already qualified for the knockout playoff, but with 13 points in six games, they have the destiny in their hands. With two wins in the remaining matches against Athletic Club (home) and Union Saint-Gilloise (away), Atalanta will surely qualify for the Round of 16, finishing in the top eight.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta BC celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Chelsea FC at Stadio di Bergamo on December 09, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Inter, on the other hand, have 12 points, they sit sixth, but still need one point to have the certainty to qualify for the knockout playoff. Their next two games are against Arsenal (at home) and Borussia Dortmund (away), and the Nerazzurri would need to win both, possibly increasing their goal difference, to qualify for the Round of 16.
Juventus have won two consecutive matches against Bodo/Glimt and Pafos. They need one more against Benfica (at home) or Monaco (away) in January 2026 to be mathematically certain to be in the knockout playoff. Juventus currently sit 17th, and even if the top eight is just three points away, the Bianconeri would need two wins in the remaining matches and negative results from most of the teams above them in the table, so their destiny is not entirely in their hands.
LISBON, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 10: Antonio Conte, Head Coach of SSC Napoli, reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between SL Benfica and SSC Napoli at on December 10, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Lastly, Napoli, the Serie A table leaders, but the lowest-ranked Italian team in the Champions League. The Partenopei have lost three European games from three away, conceding ten goals. They are currently ranked 23rd, and their next opponents are Copenhagen away and Chelsea at home. Copenhagen also have seven points, so a win would boost the Partenopei’s hopes to qualify for the knockout playoff, but won’t necessarily grant them a spot in the next phase with a game to spare, given that 11 points were necessary to qualify for the knockout playoff in 2024-25.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan have reopened informal talks with Joshua Zirkzee’s agent Kia Joorabchian, but Mauro Icardi and Niclas Füllkrug are also on the Rossoneri’s agenda.
Milan will be looking for a new centre-forward in the January transfer window and according to the latest report from Gazzetta, the Rossoneri have resumed talks with Manchester United striker Zirkzee.
Milan to rival Roma for Zirkzee
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 30: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester United and Leicester City at Old Trafford on October 30, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Milan were already interested in the Dutch striker two years ago, but failed to reach an agreement over agent fees, so Zirkzee eventually moved to Old Trafford from Bologna.
According to the latest report, Milan resumed talks with the player’s representative a few weeks ago.
It is no secret that Zirkzee is also Roma’s top target in attack for January and that the Red Devils would be open to discussing a loan deal with an obligation to buy for €35m.
Two other strikers on Milan’s agenda
Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and West Ham United FC at The King Power Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
According to Gazzetta, however, the Rossoneri would prefer a simple option to buy.
Technically, Milan are looking for a classic centre-forward, but Zirkzee would be an exception because of his technical skills and his knowledge of Serie A.
The pink paper adds that Niclas Füllkrug of West Ham and Mauro Icardi or Galatasaray are also on the Rossoneri’s agenda, but the club’s strategy in the winter transfer window will also depend on Santiago Gimenez, who is still unwilling to leave San Siro next month.
Former coach Fabio Capello is very critical of Juventus’ first-half performance despite a 2-0 win over Pafos: ‘They had luck on their side.’
Juventus secured their second win in the 2025-26 Champions League on Wednesday, beating Cypriot side Pafos 2-0 in Turin.
Weston McKennie and Jonathan David provided the goals for the Bianconeri in the second half, but the Serie A giants were lucky not to concede in the opening 45 minutes.
Capello: Lucky Juventus in 2-0 win over Pafos
Fabio Capello (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
“Juve won and that’s fine, but it’s definitely not the Juve we all know. They were flat,” Capello told Sky Sport Italia via Corriere dello Sport.
“The opponents created much more in the first half, and the Bianconeri had luck on their side. They had four huge chances. Then, in the second half and after some substitutions, Juventus managed to win but I repeat, I really didn’t like them in the first half.”
Spalletti comments on Juventus 2-0 Pafos
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Juventus sit 17th in the Champions League table with nine points in six matches and will meet Benfica and Monaco in the last two games of the league phase.
Both matches will be played in January 2026.
They’ll first host Benfica on the 21st and then visit Monaco on the 28th.
Scott McTominay gave José Mourinho his Napoli shirt after Benfica’s 2-0 Champions League win last night: ‘I benched Paul Pogba [at Manchester United], it’s the least he could do,’ said the Portuguese coach.
Benfica coach Mourinho reveals Napoli star McTominay, one of his former players at Manchester United, gifted him his Napoli shirt after last night’s Champions League encounter, won 2-0 by the Portuguese side.
What Mourinho said about McTominay
ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 02: Scott McTominay of Napoli is challenged by Manu Kone of AS Roma during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on February 02, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
“I gave him his debut; I put Pogba on the bench for him. The least he could do was give me his shirt,” Mourinho said at a post-match press conference via TMW.
“He was sad because he had lost, but this is Scott; this is the nature of winning players. He spoke to me for five minutes, but he was down in the dumps. He’s very happy at Napoli; he’s having a good moment. We have a strong bond; he’ll still remember me when he’s 70.”
Mourinho mentioned McTominay even during his post-match interview with Prime Video Italia.
“I told the kids I introduced in the final minutes will be the next McTominay,” said the Portuguese.
“I had many in Rome, from Bove to Volpato and others. This kid, Neto, is 17, and I had to be the first one to play him because this guy will make history, trust me.”
McTominay’s Champions League debut under Mourinho
NAPLES, ITALY – OCTOBER 25: Scott McTominay of SSC Napoli celebrates his side third goal scored by Frank Zambo Anguissa during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and FC Internazionale at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on October 25, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
McTominay made his Champions League debut under Mourinho in 2017 in an away 1-0 win over Benfica.
The Scotland international made 31 appearances under the Special One at Manchester United.
Last night’s defeat in Lisbon leaves Napoli 23rd in the standings with seven points. Their last two games in the league phase will be against Copenhagen and Chelsea.
Napoli’s results have been much better in Serie A as they are the joint-table leaders with Milan, having won the last three matches.
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