Reports in Italy claim that Barcelona have been left ‘disappointed’ by the fact that a potential deal for Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni seems to be fading away, but there are also suggestions that the financially-troubled LaLiga giants should priorities the signing of a new striker rather than a new defender. 

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Why Bastoni’s move to Barcelona is beginning to look unlikely

For several weeks, reports in Spain and Italy have linked Barcelona with a summer move for Italy international Bastoni, who was part of the squad that celebrated Inter’s 21st Serie A title over the weekend. 

Nerazzurri President Beppe Marotta has recently admitted: “I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona (in Bastoni), but nothing concrete yet.” 

However, according to the latest updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Barcelona’s interest in the left-sided defender is now beginning to fade away. 

There are several reasons for this, but perhaps most importantly is the player’s apparent unwillingness to leave San Siro this summer. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Inter value Bastoni in the region of €70m, but Barcelona had believed that they would be able to negotiate a discounted fee closer to €50m. In order for that to happen, though, they would have needed for Bastoni to express his desire to leave for Barcelona, thus forcing Inter’s hand into a sale.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, this has not happened, and the Nerazzurri have no intention of letting Bastoni go for a cut-price fee. 

Whether a €50m or a €70m fee, it is still a significant investment for a club who continue to feel the impact of LaLiga’s strict financial rules. As a result of their recent financial troubles, the only new, permanent signings that Barcelona have been able to complete over the last two seasons have been Dani Olmo in a €58m deal, Joan Garcia in a €27m deal and youngster Roony Bardghji in a €2m deal. 

Given that it has practically been a case of one new first-team signing per summer for Barcelona over the last two years, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that Bastoni would not be the best use of available funds during the upcoming transfer window. 

That is because Barcelona will likely need a new striker too, as the high-earning Robert Lewandowski, 37, is likely to leave the club this summer, which leaves Hansi Flick with a big gap to fill at centre-forward, which would likely be Barcelona’s priority rather than the signing of a luxury centre-back. 

Riccardo Calafiori and Matteo Ruggeri are both in the starting line-ups as Arsenal host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League final on Tuesday evening.

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Arsenal and Atletico are level at 1-1 at the halfway stage of their Champions League semi-final after goals from Viktor Gyokeres and Julian Alvaerz, both from the penalty spot, at the Metropolitano last week.

Tonight’s second leg will kick off at 20.00 BST.

Calafiori keeps his place in the Arsenal starting XI after a stellar performance against Fulham in the Premier League over the weekend. The Italy international was denied his first goal at The Emirates after a late VAR review on Saturday.

The former Roma and Bologna defender had missed four matches across all competitions with a knock leading up to the first leg of this tie, and was left on the bench for the opening game last week. This is the first time since December that Calafiori has started two games in a row for Arsenal.

Ruggeri also keeps his place at left-back in the Atletico Madrid line-up. The former Atalanta wing-back has started in 12 of Atleti’s 15 Champions League outings this term and was one of several key players that Diego Simeone decided to rest for the LaLiga match against Valencia over the weekend.

Former Atalanta star Ademola Lookman also starts for Atletico, and former Dea goalkeeper Juan Musso is named among Simeone’s substitutes.

Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid: Confirmed line-ups

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Gyokeres.

Subs: Kepa, Setford, Mosquera, Hincapie, Havertz, Odegaard, Norgaard, G.Jesus, Martinelli, Zubimendi, Dowman, Madueke. 

Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Oblak; Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano, Llorente, Koke, Lookman; Alvarez, Griezmann.

Subs: Musso, Gimenez, Lenglet, Molina, Bonar, J.Diaz, Mendoza, Cardoso, Alex B., Vargas, Sorloth, Almada. 

05-05-2026 20:00

1/2 Final

Emirates Stadium

Arsenal

Atl. Madrid

1 - 0

Player statistic

1st half

Bukayo Saka

44'

2nd half

		81'		Marc Pubill
		90+6'		Koke

Arsenal

Atl. Madrid

Starting lineups

1

David Raya

Goalkeeper

4

Ben White

Defender

6

Gabriel Magalhães

Defender

33

Riccardo Calafiori

Defender

58'

2

William Saliba

Defender

41

Declan Rice

Midfielder

49

Myles Lewis-Skelly

Midfielder

74'

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

58'

10

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

59'

19

Leandro Trossard

Attacker

83'

14

Viktor Gyökeres

Attacker

13

Jan Oblak

Goalkeeper

17

David Hancko

Defender

18

Marc Pubill

Defender

3

Matteo Ruggeri

Defender

24

Robin Le Normand

Defender

58'

6

Koke

Midfielder

14

Marcos Llorente

Midfielder

22

Ademola Lookman

Attacker

58'

7

Antoine Griezmann

Attacker

67'

20

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

58'

19

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

67'

Substitutes

9

Gabriel Jesus

Attacker

13

Kepa Arrizabalaga

Goalkeeper

29

Kai Havertz

Attacker

16

Christian Nörgaard

Midfielder

35

Tommy Setford

Goalkeeper

3

Cristhian Mosquera

Defender

56

Max Dowman

Midfielder

5

Piero Hincapié

Defender

58'

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

58'

8

Martin Ødegaard

Midfielder

59'

36

Martín Zubimendi

Midfielder

74'

11

Gabriel Martinelli

Attacker

83'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

15

Clément Lenglet

Defender

2

José María Giménez

Defender

32

Javier Boñar

Defender

21

Obed Vargas

Midfielder

34

Julio Díaz

Defender

4

Rodrigo Mendoza

Midfielder

16

Nahuel Molina

Defender

58'

9

Alexander Sörloth

Attacker

58'

5

Johnny Cardoso

Midfielder

58'

10

Álex Baena

Midfielder

67'

11

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

67'

Romelu Lukaku’s agent, Federico Pastorello, confirms the Belgian striker will resume training with his Napoli teammates today, meeting with Antonio Conte: ‘The coach will decide what to do.’

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Lukaku returns to Napoli to meet Conte

Belgium international Lukaku has returned to Naples after spending over one month in Antwerp, Belgium, for individual training sessions to regain full fitness.

Lukaku refused to return to Naples during the international break in March, remaining in Belgium without the club’s consent.

He was, therefore, fined and frozen out of the team. He did return to Naples for just one day towards the end of April to meet club directors with his agent, Pastorello.

Lukaku and his representative did not sit down with Conte at the time, prompting the coach to publicly express his dissatisfaction.

“I know both [Lukaku and Conte] really well, and they both live football with great passion,” Pastorello told DAZN Belgium via TMW.

“That was not the right moment for a meeting, but they’ll do it today.”

Lukaku has now returned to Napoli’s training centre, his agent confirmed.

“Lukaku is back to Napoli, as expected, and he’ll resume training with the team now that he’s in better shape. Then the coach will decide what to do with Romelu,” Pastorello said.

Lukaku suffered a severe muscle injury at the beginning of the season, which forced him to the sidelines in the first part of the campaign.

The Belgian international, 32, has played only 64 minutes across all competitions this season, scoring one goal.

His contract at the Stadio Maradona runs out in June 2027.

Reports in Italy claim that Luka Modric returned to the Milan training centre this morning. Hence, the Rossoneri hope to see the Croat return to action for the last game of the season despite a recent cheekbone surgery.

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Modric’s season with Milan might not be over as Italian sources, including Sky Sport Italia and MilanNews, report that the 40-year-old returned to Milanello on Tuesday morning for the first time since suffering a cheekbone injury that required surgery two weeks ago.

Modric returns to Milanello for first time after surgery

It was expected that Modric would not play for Milan again this season, focusing his recovery on the World Cup with the Croatia national team.

However, according to MilanNews, his return to Milanello this morning suggests that the Real Madrid legend will push to be available for the season’s final game.

Milan have won only one of their last five league games and are still not certain to qualify for the Champions League, as their advantage over fifth-placed Roma has been reduced to three points.

Milan host Atalanta next weekend, then visit Genoa in Round 37 and play at home against Cagliari in the final round.

• Read more – Allegri’s doubt, Modric out: The possible consequences for Milan without Champions League

Growing reports in Italy suggest that Maurizio Sarri is Napoli’s top candidate to replace Antonio Conte in 2026-27.

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Will Sarri replace Conte at Napoli in 2026-27?

Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà reports that Lazio coach Sarri is the leading candidate for the Napoli job next season if Conte leaves.

The Partenopei boss is under contract at the Stadio Maradona, but his future at the club will be determined in the coming weeks, with a meeting expected between the Italian tactician and the Napoli management, including President Aurelio De Laurentiis.

Pedullà writes on X that “confirmations are coming from all sides” that Sarri is Napoli’s “top name” for next season if the club and Conte decide to part ways.

Sarri returned to Lazio last summer but has had a troubled season at the Stadio Olimpico, mostly due to a summer transfer embargo that prevented the Biancocelesti from making new signings for the first part of the campaign.

Sarri, 67, already spent three seasons at Napoli, from 2015 to 2018.

He won 98 of 148 games in charge of the Partenopei, failing to win the Scudetto in his final season at the club despite collecting 91 points.

Inter legend Beppe Bergomi insists Milan, Juventus and Napoli can’t settle for a mere top-four finish next season and warns Barcelona about Alessandro Bastoni’s price tag: ‘He has great value…’

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Inter and Italy legend Bergomi examined the Nerazzurri’s title-winning campaign in an interview with Repubblica, where he also discussed the improvements that Cristian Chivu’s team will need for 2026-27.

Chivu has won the Scudetto in his first full Serie A season as a coach, and Bergomi had no doubts about the former defender’s quality in the dugout.

“I knew he’d do well. Roberto Samaden, who had long been in charge of the youth sector, told me that Cristian could win his players’ hearts, and he did,” he said.

Bergomi went on to name the key Inter player this term.

“Lautaro. He’s the top scorer despite playing fewer games than in the past,” he said.

“He has amazing quality and leadership skills. Zielinski and Dimarco are just one step behind.”

Bergomi feels the Nerazzurri’s target for next season is already set, but he also sent a warning to the other contenders.

“Win the league again, and it is not only true for Inter,” he claimed.

“Milan, Napoli and Juve can’t just say ‘we aim for a Champions League spot.’ It’s not fair towards the fans. The Champions League is an opportunity, but it is complex. With the new formula, if you don’t finish [the league phase] in the top eight, it gets very tough.”

According to recent reports, the Nerazzurri will have a minimum budget of €40-50m to strengthen the team, a sum that could be increased through some sales.

“I’d like a physically strong central midfielder, like Koné, Rabiot or Khephren Thuram, and a dribbler, like Nico Paz,” Bergomi said.

“It will be hard to sign him from Real Madrid, but that’s the type of player [Inter need].

“Inter have been without Calhanoglu, Dumfries, and Lautaro for many games,” continued the ex-defender.

“Bastoni too. In addition to injuries, he was subjected to unjustified public shaming. He made a mistake, but he took responsibility for it.”

Inter President Marotta has already confirmed Barcelona’s interest in Bastoni. Should the Serie A champions really sell the Italian centre-back?

“It depends on the offers,” concluded Bergomi.

“He has great value; you can’t just sell him off cheaply. I see him doing well in Spain and in the Premier League.”

Manchester United are planning to strengthen their midfield this summer, and several Serie A stars, as well as Italy international Sandro Tonali, have been linked with a move to Old Trafford.

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Manchester United’s targets in Serie A

UK media outlets (via Manchester Evening News) are reporting that Manchester United are ready to invest £150m (circa €173m) in new signings this summer, with a specific aim on central midfield.

Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà has claimed that both the Red Devils and Atletico Madrid are interested in Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with the Colchoneros seemingly slightly ahead in the race, having already offered €30m plus add-ons.

Atalanta, however, aim to get at least €40m from the Brazilian’s sale in the summer, so the race to secure his signature remains wide open.

Italy and Newcastle midfielder Tonali has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but other top Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester City, are also considering a move for the ex-Milan star.

Last month, Tuttosport reported that even Juventus midfielder Teun Koopmeiners had attracted interest from both the Red Devils and Galatasaray.

Manchester United are also looking for attacking reinforcements with Milan stars Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic both reported to be on their agenda.

United reportedly scouted Leao during a 0-0 draw against Juventus two weeks ago, and Gazzetta reported last week that the Premier League giants are eager to offer Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee or Marcus Rashford in a potential player-plus cash swap deal.

According to Calciomercato.it is understood that Manchester United are also attracted to Pulisic’s versatility, but are aware that Milan won’t sell the USMNT captain for less than €60m.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter owners have already made €40-50m available for the summer transfer window, but the budget would increase with the sale of some players, especially Alessandro Bastoni.

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Inter are already preparing to strengthen their team for 2026-27 after winning their 21st Scudetto this season.

Gazzetta reports that club owners Oaktree have already informed directors about their transfer budget for the summer, which will be between €40m and €50m.

The Serie A champions are expected to make significant changes, especially in defence, with Yann Sommer, Matteo Darmian, Francesco Acerbi and Stefan De Vrij leaving at the end of their contracts in June.

• Read more – Chivu’s quiet Inter transformation: From Champions League Final disaster to title glory

Inter’s 2026 summer targets revealed

The Nerazzurri have already been linked with Liverpool centre-back Giovanni Leoni, who played under Cristian Chivu at Parma last season.

Inter’s strategy in defence will largely depend on whether Bastoni stays beyond the summer.

President Beppe Marotta has confirmed Barcelona’s interest in the Italian centre-back, yet the Nerazzurri have received no formal proposal.

Sassuolo centre-back Tarik Muharemovic has already reached an agreement with the Nerazzurri, but club-to-club talks are still not at an advanced stage.

Experienced midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is also expected to leave at the end of his contract in June, and according to Gazzetta, Curtis Jones is another Liverpool player targeted by the Nerazzurri.

Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario has been identified as the priority to replace Yann Sommer.

According to Gazzetta, Inter and Chivu could even decide to reshape the team, making suitable signings to a four-man defence.

In this scenario, Atalanta-owned Marco Palestra is a primary target, as the Italian can play either as a full-back or an attacking winger.

As reported by Corriere dello Sport, Inter still hope to sign Nico Paz from Real Madrid next summer, as the Argentine is expected to return to the Bernabeu from Como at the end of the current campaign.

Italy international Riccardo Calafiori is not expected to start for Arsenal in the Champions League semifinal second leg against Atletico Madrid tonight, as Mikel Arteta ‘could be tempted by the added security of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.’

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Arteta to drop Calafiori for Arsenal vs. Atletico Madrid?

Calafiori’s Arsenal host Atletico Madrid in the second leg of the Champions League semifinals at the Emirates Stadium in London tonight.

The first leg played in Madrid last week ended in a 1-1 draw.

Calafiori returned to action after nearly a month last weekend, playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-0 win over Fulham.

The Italian defender is eligible for tonight’s fixture, and even though Standard.co.uk admits the ex-Roma and Bologna defender ‘looked sharp’ in his latest outing, Arteta ‘could be tempted by the added security of Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie.’

Calafiori has scored one goal and provided three assists in 32 appearances across all competitions with Arsenal this term.

He is in his second season at the Emirates Stadium, where his contract expires in June 2029.

Milan risk missing out on Champions League qualification, and Gazzetta warns that failing to secure a top-four finish will have consequences, including the departure of Luka Modric.

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Milan have won only one of their last five Serie A games, allowing fifth-placed Roma to move just three points behind them in the standings with three games remaining.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that missing out on a Champions League placement would have significant consequences for Milan, not only in terms of appeal and finances.

To start with, Croatian star Modric would almost certainly leave San Siro at the end of the season if Milan don’t finish in the top four.

Modric’s contract expires in June, and Milan will activate their option to extend until 2027 only if the 40-year-old agrees to stay.

Sky Sport previously reported that Modric would stay at Milan only in case of Champions League qualification and if Massimiliano Allegri stays for one more season.

The Italian tactician’s future at San Siro would also be uncertain without a top-four finish.

His contract expires in June 2027 and will automatically be extended to 2028 with Champions League qualification.

However, failing to reach the season’s main target might convince the coach to leave the Rossoneri, especially with the Italy national team job available.

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini warns that he wants to avoid ‘misunderstandings’ in the new season: ‘I must work with my own ideas.’

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Roma are still very much in the race for the Champions League. After securing a comfortable 4-0 home win against Fiorentina on Monday, the Giallorossi are just one point below fourth-placed Juventus with three games remaining.

Gasperini first examined Roma’s win during a post-match interview with Italian TV last night and then spoke about what he expects for next season at a post-match press conference.

Roma 4-0 Fiorentina: Gasperini’s post-match press conference

“I’ve always received important answers from these lads, who have always wanted to improve themselves,” the Roma boss said via Corriere dello Sport.

“We’ve always had a strong attachment, and I see even more in these last few games. We’ve never given up; we didn’t have a target, so we set it ourselves.

“We know that by recovering some players, we can have our say, we get to the final rush with confidence, but we’ve always been there.

“At the end of the season, we’ll have to talk to avoid the misunderstandings we’ve had. We need clarity,” he added.

“Perhaps we didn’t understand each other well. Now we are there, and we’ll fight.”

Roma parted ways with Senior Advisor Claudio Ranieri two weeks ago, effectively reinforcing Gasperini’s powers within the club.

Sporting director Frederic Massara is also expected to leave the Stadio Olimpico at the end of the season, with Gasp previously admitting that he and the club executive had had different views throughout the current campaign.

“We want to gift a result beyond predictions, and this strongly motivates us. This team’s strength is the unity in the dressing room, and it bothers me to think that this group is only worthy of a fifth- or sixth-place finish,” Gasp continued.

“This is a strong team with solid foundations. There are values that must be strengthened and not wasted. I respect everyone’s opinions, but I must work with my ideas. If I have to work with other ideas, I’d rather find another place.”

Roma will face Lazio in the penultimate round of the season. Even if the date and kick-off time have yet to be officially confirmed, Lega Serie A President Ezio Simonelli has hinted that the match will be played on May 17 at 12:30 CET.

Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri looked unhappy with the kick-off time decided by Lega Serie A and threatened not to go on the bench for the derby.

“Perhaps it will rain. It won’t be hot. The problem is that there aren’t any other times available,” Gasp said.

“Nobody is happy with that kick-off time. I’ve been told that we can’t play in the evening. Monday at 18:00 [CET] would be even worse, and then there’s the matter of games played simultaneously. You’ll see, Sarri will be there eventually.”

Gianluigi Donnarumma was desperate to see Everton’s second goal ruled out on Monday, even kneeling before referee Michael Oliver, a gesture that earned him his seventh yellow card of the season, the most of any goalkeeper in Europe.

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Italy captain Donnarumma received his seventh yellow card of the season on Monday, during Manchester City’s 3-3 draw against Everton.

As reported by Goal.com, Gigio has received more yellow cards than any other goalkeeper in Europe’s top ten leagues.

Donnarumma believed he had been fouled in the build-up to Everton’s second goal, which stemmed from a corner kick routine. However, his protests to the referee did not yield the desired outcome.

The Italian goalkeeper had previously produced a couple of decisive saves and somehow contributed to Manchester City’s late equaliser by rushing inside the Everton box for a late corner kick which led to Jeremy Doku’s goal.

Donnarumma is in his first season at Manchester City, where he has conceded 40 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions and kept 16 clean sheets.

Donnarumma’s ups and downs in Everton 3-3 Man City

Donnarumma literally dropped to his knees begging Michael Oliver not to book him #EVEMCI pic.twitter.com/cgfrC29eYp

— USHIE (@ustonysilva) May 5, 2026

WHA A RIDICULOUS SAVE BY DONNARUMMA TO DENY NDIAYE?pic.twitter.com/yN2MjDnBaK https://t.co/v1gfcd8ATV

— TopCee (@UtdTopCee) May 4, 2026

breh! https://t.co/ulR54sytfH pic.twitter.com/NDCD9M3DwY

— Geronimo Morgans (@GeronimoMorgans) May 4, 2026

MADNESS!!

Jeremy Doku with the EQUALIZER in the 97 minute!!

Everton: 3
Man City: 3
97’ pic.twitter.com/07r87bbwS0

— USA Sports (@usasports) May 4, 2026

Kylian Mbappé used a day off last week for a trip to Italy, which, according to Marca, upset Real Madrid.

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Mbappé’s recent trip to Italy has raised concerns at Real Madrid, as the French superstar is reportedly on bad terms with some members of the Merengues’ dressing room.

According to Marca, Mbappé’s trip to Cagliari, Italy, last week has further worsened his standing with his club and teammates.

Mbappé is recovering from an injury, but Marca has described his trip to Italy as ‘controversial.’

Although the Frenchman is recovering from an injury and other players in the same situation travelled abroad last week, his short trip to Sardinia has raised further concerns at the Bernabeu, affecting his status inside the dressing room.

The Spanish newspaper reports that Mbappé has distanced himself from the team in recent weeks, and not only because of his injuries.

The Frenchman is reported to be on bad terms with parts of the dressing room, including Vinicius Junior, and his attitude, on and off the pitch, is not appreciated by most of his Real Madrid teammates.

His recent trip to Italy with his girlfriend, Ester Exposito, has increased dissatisfaction within the team and the club.

Kylian Mbappé, İtalya’nın Cagliari şehrinde Ester Exposito ile birlikte zamanının tadını çıkarıyor. pic.twitter.com/Do3nJkPU75

— Kapitano Sports (@kapitanosport) May 2, 2026

• Read more – Mbappé chose restaurant loved by Italy legend during controversial Cagliari trip

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Inter make themselves European

Four-man defence and an assaulting team to go beyond the Scudetto.

Milan and Juve, Champions risk

Stars at stake

The Devil without Cup? Allegri doubt, Modric’s farewell. The Old Lady might lose Yildiz, and Comolli is no longer safe.

Roma arrive, one point from the fourth spot

Sarri: ‘Derby at 12:30? I won’t go on the bench.’

Corriere dello Sport

New Inter

From the 21st Scudetto to market moves: more powers to Cristian and renewal to 2028

Chivu, let’s change

Assault on Paz, Koné and Palestra. Moratti: ‘Marvellous Nico.’

The Argentine will return to Real Madrid: Marotta tries. A new attempt for the Frenchman. Pressing on, Atalanta: the full-back is a priority. Chasing a centre-back: from Muharemovic to Leoni.

Poker Roma: Gasp goes -1 from Juve

Endless Lazio: Noslin’s magic

Referee managers called by the Prosecutor

Tuttosport

Toro in Superga: rage and pride

Juve, enough! Now Silva and Alisson

The coach expects six high-level reinforcements. First of all, he wants to feel safe with a central midfielder and a goalkeeper, like the experienced players of City and Liverpool. Tough speech to the players: if you do the minimum, you won’t go to the Champions League. Blitz in Stuttgart for Stiller and Grimaldo.

Roma boom: once again -1 from the fourth spot with four goals.

Defending champions Inter have Paz ready

45m plus sales to persuade Real Madrid, who will re-sign him from Como.

Gian Piero Gasperini insists he always knew Roma could get back into the hunt for the top four after hammering Fiorentina 4-0. ‘We cannot afford a mistake, but we’re in good shape.’

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It was a dominant performance at the Stadio Olimpico, as the Giallorossi were already 3-0 up by half-time thanks to Gianluca Mancini’s free header, Wesley, and Mario Hermoso.

The 4-0 scoreline was rounded out after the break by Niccolò Pisilli on a Donyell Malen assist, the Dutchman hitting the woodwork twice.

Gasperini always had faith in Roma

“We’ve changed our attack since midway through the season, so scored many more than in the first half, though we also conceded quite a few more too,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.

“It was good to score with four different players and some good moves. We are in a good period of form, though games are all very balanced and difficult, we know that we cannot afford a mistake to still have a chance, but we are in good shape.”

The coach always believed in their ability to get back into the hunt for fourth.

“I saw that we had the possibility of getting players back, that with a complete team we could get a run of results and had much stronger potential.”

This result means Roma are now just one point behind fourth-placed Juventus, and within three of Milan in third, so the fight for Champions League qualification is blown wide open.

Como are also still in the running, as they are in sixth place on 62 points, just two behind the Giallorossi.

“This is a very strong squad, above all I never had to keep a tight grip on them, because from the first day I arrived they were fully focused. I never had a problem with their mentality, and the response seen in recent weeks has been even more determined.

“There is great unity between myself and the players, we will try to achieve a target that we wanted strongly from the start.”

The arrival of Malen in January from Aston Villa has undoubtedly transformed the squad, but the future of the Roma attack is looking very uncertain, especially as Paulo Dybala’s contract is running down.

“We were missing Dybala and Soulé for long periods this season due to injury, El Shaarawy was out for a while too, we were haemorrhaging strikers for a while, including long-term absentees like Dovbyk and Ferguson who fell off the radar,” added Gasperini.

“Despite everything, these lads gave their all in every game, so I cannot fault their attitude, and today they seem stronger than ever. There are three games to play, we know that we have to achieve the maximum and hope someone else slips up.”

Manu Kone made his return to the starting XI today for the first time since a muscular injury in mid-March.

“For long spells, this team had the best defensive record in Europe. We lost a few players and paid a price for that, but we’re starting to get everyone back now, the team that we had at the start plus Malen. In these conditions, obviously it is easier to get results.”

Considering representatives of the Friedkin family were in the stands today, is Gasperini discussing how to improve this squad for next season?

“As I said, I am focused on the present, then the moment will come when we can talk about the future.”

The race for Champions League qualification could go down to the wire, as there are now only five points separating Milan, Juventus, Roma and Como in the Serie A table.

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The top four go into the Champions League from Serie A, and while Inter are guaranteed their spot in first place and Napoli have a fairly healthy lead, the other two are going to be very tight.

The Week 35 fixtures have completely transformed the situation, as Milan lost to Sassuolo, while Juventus, Napoli and Como all played stalemates.

This allowed Roma to break back into the race with their dominant 4-0 victory over Fiorentina.

Napoli now have 70 points, Milan 67, Juventus 65, Roma 64, and Como 62.

Let’s take a look at the remaining Serie A fixtures for what could be a battle to the end.

Serie A fixtures

Week 36

Lecce vs. Juventus

Milan vs. Atalanta

Napoli vs. Bologna

Parma vs. Roma

Verona vs. Como

Week 37

Como vs. Parma

Genoa vs. Milan

Juventus vs. Fiorentina

Pisa vs. Napoli

Roma vs. Lazio

Week 38

Cremonese vs. Como

Milan vs. Cagliari

Napoli vs. Udinese

Torino vs. Juventus

Verona vs. Roma

Serie A Table

Maurizio Sarri continued to cast doubts over his Lazio future ahead of the Coppa Italia Final. ‘I’ll talk to the club and we’ll see if we can respect this contract to the end.’

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The Aquile consolidated eighth place in Serie A with this evening’s last-gasp victory away to Cremonese, as Gustav Isaksen and Tijjani Noslin turned it around after the Federico Bonazzoli opener.

It is perhaps a better result that Sarri had expected when he started the season with a transfer embargo, then saw some big players sold in January.

Sarri not sure of Lazio status

“Our objective since the start of the season was to work in order to help improve a squad that had only the very smallest chance of getting into the race for Europe,” Sarri told DAZN Italia.

“Amid a thousand difficulties, I can say that today we are a different type of team, thanks to that progress. I don’t know if this will be the foundations for the future, that is not up to me.”

The coach also spoke later in a press conference and was asked outright if he will remain at Lazio next term.

“I am here for Cremonese-Lazio,” was his reply. “There are another four games to go, one of which is extremely important. Our minds are only on those.

“After that, we will sit down and talk with the club, then we’ll see if we can respect this contract to the end.”

Meanwhile, Sarri was furious with the Lega Serie A organisers for scheduling the Derby della Capitale at 12.30 local time.

“At the start of the season, we played the derby in 37 degree heat, now they are making us play in May at midday. It is an insult to the city of Rome, to two big clubs, and to the fans, so someone has to pay for that.

“I hope they won’t make us play at that time, and someone should resign just for proposing it. I can tell you now, if they do, I won’t turn up for press interviews in protest. Ask the Lega Serie A why they didn’t make Inter and Milan play at that time.”

Cremonese now need a miracle to avoid relegation to Serie B, as their defeat to Lazio means Genoa are safe, Cagliari and Fiorentina practically too, so only Lecce are within reach.

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Marco Giampaolo’s men knew they were in a very difficult situation after Lecce secured a 2-1 victory away to Pisa on Friday evening.

That result mathematically guaranteed that both Pisa and Hellas Verona are going down to Serie B this summer, leaving just one spot remaining.

That will be a straight fight between Cremonese and Lecce, but the gap has opened up to four points with just three rounds left to play.

Cremonese hot favourites for relegation

Cremonese’s 2-1 home defeat to Lazio in stoppages leaves them on 28 points, while Lecce are on 32.

Genoa are now mathematically safe on 40 points, while Cagliari and Fiorentina are nine points clear.

At the very most, these teams would go into a play-off, but they can practically breathe easy at this stage.

Going into the final three rounds, Cremonese need to host doomed Pisa, visit Udinese and conclude at home to Como.

Lecce will welcome Juventus, play away to Sassuolo, and their last game is at home with Genoa.

When it comes to Serie A relegation, if two teams are locked together, they go into a play-off over two legs.

If more than two teams are on the same points, then a mini-league is drawn up of their head-to-head results, and the bottom two head into the play-offs.

Serie A Table

Cesc Fabregas learned so much from the coaches he worked with, crediting Antonio Conte, Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, but above all Arsene Wenger. ‘Conte was a big shock.’

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The Como coach is only 39 years old and hung up his boots in 2023, going straight into management with the Italian club in Serie B.

In Calcio, there is a battle between so-called Giochisti and Risultatisti, those who want to focus on playing good football, and those who say the result is all that truly matters. He is firmly in the first camp.

Fabregas not just about the result

“I coach the way that I feel. I love the game. If I coach only to get results, I will not do it. I don’t have the necessity to do it,” Fabregas told Telegraph Sport.

“I do it because of the passion and because I want to do it my way. You know, of course, you need to adapt, depending on the group of players that you have.

“But, at the end of the day, you have some beliefs. I could not coach long ball, second ball. Why? Because you need to believe in what you do. You can win in any way, as long as you convince the players and you convince everyone that this is the right way.

“But I have my beliefs. If you want to play long ball, second ball, I’m sorry I’m not your guy, because I don’t feel it. So I will not be able to transmit the fire.”

You can read the rest of his comments from this interview here.

He is trying to adapt all that he learned over 20 years as a player and brings that to this new stage of his career, trying also to avoid the errors he witnessed in the past.

That came from a little black book he started when playing for Arsenal, updating throughout his time at various clubs.

“I started the book when I was 22 or 23, before going to Barcelona, and then I just kept adding to it during my career,” continued Fabregas.

“I referred back to it at the beginning because everything was new. But now, with my experience, every time I’m more confident about what I do. If I’m unsure about something, I could sneak a look and pick a little bit of it, but not so often now.

“The biggest chapters are probably about Arsene, because everything was new, and Conte, because, for me, he was a big shock. Everything was different.”

Conte and Fabregas met at the weekend in a 0-0 Serie A draw between Como and Napoli, having worked together for two years at Chelsea.

“It was the first time someone was telling me where I need to pass the ball. The way he dealt with things, he was very, very tough in certain things. So he made me see a lot of new things and also he learned to trust me.”

The coach he still keeps in touch with the most is Wenger from the early days at Arsenal, who along with Thierry Henry and David Dien have been in the stands to cheer on Como.

“Arsene sends me messages after games, even when we lose or when we win after good performances. He gives me a lot of courage,” concluded Fabregas.

Cesc Fabregas explains why he is in no rush to leave Como, even if he’d like to work in the Premier League ‘in 12, 15 years,’ because he has control. ‘I take all the football decisions, I designed the gym.’

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The tactician has taken Como from Serie B to the top flight, the Coppa Italia semi-final and now challenging for a Champions League qualifying place in the space of three years.

It has attracted so much attention that there were reports he had been approached by Chelsea and Arsenal, two of his former clubs as a player, but insists he is in no rush to leave the Stadio Sinigaglia.

Fabregas eager to see Como develop

“The Premier League is the best league in the world,” Fabregas told Telegraph Sport.

“I’ve always been very, very clear about it. I felt it as a player, I feel it as a coach, as a fan. But [Jose] Mourinho told me one day when I was at Chelsea ‘I still have 30 years to work’. So I could be here for 10 years, and you can still go to the Premier League in 12, 15 years.

“Football is so unpredictable, it changes in one second. One day, you are the best. The day after, you are the worst. So let’s enjoy the moment. I like to enjoy the moment. It’s beautiful what we are living here. Let’s see what the future holds.”

Seeing the speed at which some clubs go through managers, he has even more reason to stick it out with Como, where he represents far more than just a coach.

When he joined as a player in 2022, the Spaniard also invested as a minority shareholder, and has been given the keys to the club by billionaire owners the Hartono family.

“I take all the football decisions. The sporting director, he’s day-to-day with me and we see football the same way. The signings, we work with data, we have our scouting and stuff, but it needs to be something that I believe in. It needs to be a player that I’m convinced about.

“I’m so happy and lucky that we have a president that trusts me a lot and has given me the confidence to go and take all the football decisions. That, for me, is really important.”

Fabregas repeatedly said that he used to open the gates of the training ground at 6am, but goes into further detail of how much Como have built to follow his vision.

“The gym I designed with the architect. I designed the glass on the front. I learned it from Arsène [Wenger]. I remembered that the gym needs to be looking at the game on the pitches for the injured players.

“All the food comes here, it was an old building, and I did it the way that I feel is right. And all the pitches, everything. At the stadium, I said we need a bigger pitch because we are a team that wants the ball, we have possession. So I made the pitch bigger.

“In Italy, people were saying ‘no, no, why 65 metres? Make it 63 because that means you can defend better’. So it’s a bit the concept of you look at football in one way or another.”

Now that they are on the verge of qualifying for Europe, Fabregas can’t wait to see what happens next at Como.

“We started this journey, not on the ground floor, but at minus 10. So we’re ahead of schedule and we are in the early days. I feel that this club has so much potential, but this is what I was given. You know, this is the beauty of this project, starting from nothing to make one day a European club.”

“I’m enjoying what I’m doing. I’m in a beautiful place with amazing people who let me work and they trust me. Every day, I feel like I am at university because every day I need to make a crazy amount of decisions all over the club. And, for me, this is good because I’m learning faster than maybe doing it another way.”

Some had suggested Fabregas would make a good Italy coach, but this is another thing he is in absolutely no hurry to experience.

“If you ask me now ‘do you want to coach a national team?’ I will tell you ‘no’. Because I love coaching. I love being every day on the grass. I love being with the young players. I love the individual sessions. I love it all.”

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Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti admits the Bianconeri need ‘quality’ in tight spaces, amid speculation that the Bianconeri want both Bernardo Silva and Tijjani Reijnders from Manchester City.

Juventus will be looking to add more quality to the team, as Bianconeri coach Spalletti clarified on Sunday after a disappointing 1-1 home draw against already-relegated Hellas Verona.

Spalletti explains what Juventus need in 2026 summer transfer window

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Juventus still have a three-point lead over fifth-placed Como, but Roma will move just one point behind the Old Lady if they beat Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico tonight.

During his post-match interviews, Spalletti clearly explained what the club should be looking for in the summer.

“We’re lacking a bit of real quality in tight spaces, in that area of the attacking midfield,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia via Gazzetta.

“What we are missing is an attacking midfielder who is good in tight spaces, because that area in front of the opponents’ penalty box becomes like a swamp, and if things don’t come off, you start forcing plays, which increases frustration and difficulties.”

Juventus have already begun negotiations with Manchester City captain Bernardo Silva, who won’t extend his expiring contract with the Premier League giants and is therefore available on a free transfer.

According to Football Insider, the Bianconeri have also set their sights on Bernardo Silva’s teammate Reijnders, a former Milan star, who has been struggling for playing time in his first season at Etihad Stadium, especially in recent weeks.

Spalletti has also asked for greater quality in central defence, suggesting the club should try to sign a ball-playing centre-back.

“Certain traits shape the team,” he concluded.

“We have Bremer and Kelly, who are two excellent defenders individually, strong on duels, physical and solid defensively, but perhaps they give something away when it comes to building from the back.”

Milan have only netted 48 goals in 2025-26, resulting in their worst scoring season in the last 10 years.

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Milan have only won one of their last five Serie A matches, collecting just four points in the process.

Their 2-0 loss to Sassuolo on Sunday risks jeopardising their Champions League place, as the Rossoneri have only five points more than Como with three games remaining, and Roma will move three points behind them if they beat Fiorentina tonight.

With 48 goals scored in 35 matches, Milan are expected to terminate the campaign with the worst scoring record in the last decade.

MilanNews has reported the worrying numbers for Milan’s strikers in the second part of the campaign.

USMNT star Christian Pulisic has not scored a goal in the last 126 days, being scoreless since December 28, 2025.

January signing Niclas Füllkrug scored his most recent goal on January 18, 2026. Christopher Nkunku has not scored a goal in 69 days (February 3, 2026 against Bologna). 

Santiago Gimenez has spent several months on the sidelines due to an injury and has yet to score a goal in Serie A this term, finding the net for the last time in a league game on May 9, 2025, practically a year ago.

Last but not least, Rafael Leao has not scored a goal since March 1, when the Rossoneri won 2-0 over Cremonese.

Milan’s scoring record in the last 10 years

2016-17: 57 goals

2017-18: 56

2018-19: 55

2019/20: 63

2020/21: 74

2021-22: 69

2022-23: 64

2023-24: 76

2024-25: 61

Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta has addressed speculation linking Alessandro Bastoni with Barcelona, insisting the defender is content at the club despite concrete interest yet to materialise, as the Nerazzurri savour a third Scudetto title in five years.

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According to comments made by Marotta on Radio Anch’Io Sport, the president was candid about the situation surrounding the Italy international.

“He is a great talent,” Marotta said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“He was unlucky in certain episodes. Everyone had their eyes on him. He made that naive mistake against Juventus with the simulation, he was the first to admit it, but we protected him. He is a great champion. I won’t deny there is interest from Barcelona, but nothing concrete yet. A player leaves if he expresses the desire to go. At this moment he is happy to be with us and we are happy with him.”

Marotta bullish on Inter’s Italian core ahead of title defence

Bastoni’s situation will dominate the summer agenda at Inter, but Marotta was equally forthcoming on broader ambitions.

On strengthening the squad’s Italian nucleus, he said: “Italy produces talent. We want to build a solid core of Italians, some are getting older so it is right to add more. For the Scudetto, you need a core who understands Italian football.”

Marotta also confirmed the Champions League remains a personal obsession.

“I have reached four finals and unfortunately lost them all,” he admitted. “It is something I still want to achieve, but next year we will try to improve in that competition.”

Cristian Chivu’s assistant coach, Aleksandar Kolarov, mentioned last season’s Champions League Final defeat during a post-match press conference on Sunday: ‘In football, it happens. The other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do.’

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Inter are celebrating their 21st Scudetto following a 2-0 win over Parma on Sunday.

The Nerazzurri only needed one draw to win the title with three games to spare, but still secured a victory with goals from Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

Football Italia was among the accredited media at San Siro, covering the build-up, the game, and all post-match celebrations.

Inter coach Chivu didn’t speak to reporters at full-time, leaving the stage to his staff members, including assistant coach Kolarov, who answered most of the journalists’ questions.

“We’ve believed in our job from the beginning. The lads were excellent in accepting our requests,” Kolarov said.

“It was easy to work with them. They’ve immediately made themselves available and reacted after a few losses. Let me add a few words about last season’s loss [in the Champions League Final]. In football, it happens.

“Journalists say it was a total disaster, but other teams didn’t even get there. Other teams were on the sofa watching what Inter would do. The lads have already made themselves available. We used their quality, not just in footballing terms. Men make the difference.”

Inter appointed Chivu last summer after seeing Simone Inzaghi by mutual agreement following a 5-0 defeat in the Champions League Final against PSG.

Federico Dimarco also hit back at critics last night, saying that he dedicated the title to “those who said I was finished.”

Chivu leaves the stage to his staff members for a post-match press conference: ‘They deserve it!’#InterScudetto@footballitalia pic.twitter.com/XzqHbId90R

— Lorenzo Bettoni (@LoreBetto) May 3, 2026

Inter star Federico Dimarco admits the 2025-26 Serie A title ‘means so much’ after last season’s disappointments and dedicates the Scudetto to ‘those who said I was finished.’

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Inter are celebrating the 21st Scudetto in their history, the second in the last three years.

Dimarco: ‘Special to see Milan coloured in black and blue’

It’s the first Scudetto for Cristian Chivu, who has become the first foreign coach to win the Serie A title since José Mourinho in 2010.

Dimarco has been one of the standout performers this season, having contributed to 25 goals across all competitions.

“It’s an amazing feeling. To see Milan coloured in black and blue is special,” the Italian defender told InterTV via FcInter1908.

“It tastes like a restart after the bad disappointments of last season. We have restarted with the team and staff members. We have worked hard and crowned the dream of the 21st Scudetto.

“We are a united team, and we were united in difficult moments too, when we were being beaten from every direction. We always showed up, and now we enjoy this title. It means so much after what happened last year. I dedicate it to all the people who are close to me, especially those who said I was finished at the end of last season.”

Dimarco was among the Inter stars who headed to Piazza Duomo at late light on Sunday to celebrate with the Inter supporters in the city’s main square.

Inter have won the Scudetto with three games to spare, securing 26 victories in 35 league matches this term.

Last night, they needed just one point to put their hands on the Scudetto, but still secured a 2-0 victory with goals courtesy of Marcus Thuram and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

• Read more – Live: Inter win 21st Serie A title – reactions, pictures videos

Dimarco et Zanetti sont les premiers à mener la fête de l’Inter sur la Piazza Duomo avec les Tifosi pic.twitter.com/FxHjoRHZSX

— Inter Milan Internazionale.fr (@SoloInter) May 4, 2026

Cristian Chivu has become the first foreign coach to win the Serie A title since José Mourinho in 2010, when the current Inter boss was a player under the Special One at the Stadio Meazza.

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Inter secured their 21st Scudetto on Sunday, beating Parma 2-0 at San Siro.

Chivu has won the Serie A title in his first season at San Siro and his first full campaign in Italy’s top flight, having previously coached Parma for only 13 matches last term.

The Romanian tactician has become the first foreign coach to win the Scudetto since Mourinho in the 2009-10 campaign.

Back then, Mou not only won the Serie A title but also grabbed a legendary treble, with Chivu as one of the regular starters on that team.

• Read more – Chivu’s quiet Inter transformation: From Champions League Final disaster to title glory

Since then, only Italian coaches have won the Italian league: Massimiliano Allegri has done it six times, followed by Antonio Conte with five, Maurizio Sarri, Stefano Pioli, Luciano Spalletti and Simone Inzaghi with one each.

List of Serie A title-winning coaches since Mourinho

2010-11 Allegri (Milan)

2011-12 Conte (Juventus)

2012-13 Conte (Juventus)

2013-14 Conte (Juventus)

2014-15 Allegri (Juventus)

2015-16 Allegri (Juventus)

2016-17 Allegri (Juventus)

2017-18 Allegri (Juventus)

2018-19 Allegri (Juventus)

2019-20 Sarri (Juventus)

2020-21 Conte (Inter)

2021-22 Pioli (Milan)

2022-23 Spalletti (Napoli)

2023-24 Inzaghi (Inter)

2024-25 Conte (Napoli)

• Read more – Mourinho on ‘my finished Roma’, Chivu’s surprise and the ‘biggest lie in football’

Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma host Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico tonight, with Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen expected to start up front for the Giallorossi.

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It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 BST) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, and it’s the final round of Serie A Week 35.

Milan, Juventus and Como have dropped points in this round, so Roma have a good chance to move one point behind the Bianconeri in fourth.

Fiorentina, on the other hand, sit 16th with a nine-point lead over 18th-placed Cremonese, who will host Lazio at 18:00 CET.

Roma must cope without the suspended El Aynaoui and the injured Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Bryan Zaragoza.

According to several sources, including Sky Sport Italia, Argentine star Dybala is fit to start up front for the Giallorossi, and so is Manu Koné in central midfield.

The Tuscans have travelled to Florence without Tariq Lamptey, Luis Balbo, Niccolò Fortini, Moise Kean and Roberto Piccoli.

Roma vs. Fiorentina – Where to watch on TV

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

Roma vs. Fiorentina – probable line-ups

Roma (3-4-2-1): Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso; Celik, Cristante, Koné, Wesley; Soulé, Dybala; Malen.

Fiorentina (4-3-3): De Gea; Dodò, Pongracic, Ranieri, Gosens; Ndour, Fagioli, Mandragora; Harrison, Gudmundsson, Solomon.  

Inter striker Marcus Thuram paid tribute to NBA legend Kobe Bryant on Instagram while celebrating the Nerazzurri’s Scudetto victory.

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Inter star Thuram recreated one of Kobe Bryant’s iconic photos on social media while celebrating the club’s 21st Scudetto in the dressing room on Sunday.

Thuram had scored the opening goal in a 2-0 win over Parma, which allowed the Nerazzurri to win the Scudetto with three games to spare.

Right after the match, Thuram posted an Instagram picture showing him with two Scudetto trophies, those he won during his time at the Stadio Meazza.

It was an edited picture as Inter will only lift the 2025-26 Scudetto trophy after the final matchday, but his pose was a tribute to the iconic picture of NBA legend Kobe Bryant taken in June 2001 after the Los Angeles Lakers had beaten the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 5 in Philadelphia.

Check out all reactions, pictures and videos from Inter’s title celebrations on the special football Italia LIVEBLOG.

Picture: Thuram’s tribute to Bryant as Inter celebrate 21st Scudetto

𝗡𝗘𝗪: Marcus Thuram pays tribute to the great Kobe Bryant via IG. pic.twitter.com/KgT4o9Ks9H

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) May 3, 2026

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Inter Scudetto: 21 of glory

Nerazzurri champions with a 2-0 win over Parma. Lautaro: ‘It wasn’t easy after last season.’ Chivu’s magic debut. Marotta: ‘May he stay for a long time.’ San Siro going crazy.

Corriere dello Sport

What a treble!

Historic triumphs of Sinner in Madrid and Kimi in Miami as the splendid frame of Inter’s 21st Scudetto.

Chivu’s domination: 2-0 to Parma and celebration with three games to spare.

Thuram and Micky put their names on the 26th victory in 35 games: +12 over Napoli and +15 over Milan. San Siro goes wild.

Tuttosport

Special Chivu: Inter’s euphoria

San Siro goes wild to celebrate the Nerazzurri’s triumph after the victory against Parma, signed by Thuram and Mkhitaryan. The Romanian, the protagonist of the 2010 treble, is the first foreign coach to win the Scudetto after Mourinho. Marotta: ‘He can stay for many years.’ The role of captain Martinez, the weight of Calhanoglu and Dimarco.

Here’s Vlahovic again, but Juventus throw themselves away

The Serbian replies to Bowie, amid errors and boos. Spalletti: ‘We are nothing special like this.’ Milan tilted, but the hook failed. Roma return to +1 tonight?

It was not always plain sailing, but in the end, Inter emerged as worthy Serie A champions. Giancarlo Rinaldi gives out his grades to some of the vital cogs in their title win.

It would be simplistic to say the Italian league was all but decided by New Year’s Day, but there’s a grain of truth in that assessment. Inter hit the top of the table shortly after Christmas and never really looked back. While others stumbled around them, the Nerazzurri showed that – at least on the home front – they could be the side to beat for some time to come unless other big clubs get their house in order or new challengers emerge. Here are the ratings of some of the most important figures in their 21st Scudetto.

Inter win 2025-26 Serie A title: the most influential figures

Christian Chivu 7.5/10 – Simone Inzaghi was a hard act to follow, and initially it looked like the Romanian might not be up to the job. Early defeats to Juventus and Napoli suggested he was fine against the league’s lesser lights but perhaps still learning against fellow giants. To a degree that persisted throughout the season, but not enough to dent their rise to the top. A big win over Como showed they meant business, and they set a pretty relentless pace. Europe and the Italian Supercup were disappointing, but with a potential double on the cards, thanks to a Coppa Italia final with Lazio, he surely deserves more than pass marks.

Federico Dimarco 9/10 – Fans of the Italian national team might beg to differ, but for his club side, this was an unforgettable season for the flying fullback. He was already an amazing attacking option for his team, but his 18 assists this term – the best ever in Serie A since records began – took him to another level. Little wonder Marcus Thuram felt it necessary to polish his teammate’s boots after setting up yet another goal. Add to that a few goals of his own, and you can see why, especially with his partner in crime, Denzel Dumfries, out injured on the other flank for a long spell, he was one of the main architects of Inter’s success.

Manuel Akanji 7.5/10 – There is an accepted wisdom that defenders coming from the Premier League can struggle to adjust to the Italian game, but the Swiss international did not seem to have too many problems. He quickly became a stalwart on Chivu’s side just as he had previously done with Manchester City. He definitely made the biggest impact among any of the new arrivals at the club, and it is perhaps no surprise that there is speculation that he and Yann Bisseck could become the favoured centre-back pairing for a while to come.

Lautaro Martinez 8/10 – Even operating on a part-time basis, he remained a fundamental part of this Scudetto side, both from the touchline barking instructions and when he could get on the pitch to strut his stuff. His goal haul despite struggling with injuries tells part of the story but a more significant slice comes from what he adds to the overall teamplay. Simply one of the best link-up forwards in the business, he is capable of scoring goals and setting them up for others. The Nerazzurri will be praying they can hold on to him and that he has a season with a clean bill of health.

Francesco Pio Esposito 7/10 – Although he didn’t feature all that often or for a full 90 minutes, he was still definitely a bright spot this campaign. At a club more known for its old stagers than its youthful appearance, he was a breath of fresh air. His attitude, effort and will to learn helped him cope through periods when his more experienced counterparts were sidelined. In an era when very few young Italians get a chance anywhere – never mind with a title-winning team – this was a first step in what will hopefully be a very long and successful career.

Cristian Chivu jokes he was ‘already in the Inter history books’ as a player with the Treble, and tried to ‘draw on that experience’ with his squad as a coach. ‘I lost my ego during a life and death moment.’

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You can follow the Scudetto celebrations on the special Inter Liveblog.

Chivu won the Treble with Inter as a player in 2010, then started his coaching career with the club’s youth academy, where he worked with Francesco Pio Esposito.

He was not the first choice for the job, as many reported that they had first approached Cesc Fabregas, but the Romanian has secured their 21^st Scudetto.

Chivu: ‘I was already in Inter history’

When told he is in the Inter history books, he replied with his usual dry humour.

“I think I already was before,” smiled Chivu on DAZN Italia.

“I had done a few things as a player… But I am happy for these lads, for this club, for these marvellous fans who supported us from the start.

“I won’t say the whole narrative from last season, the mockery and denigration of this group, but the lads did well to roll their sleeves up, be reborn, and find what it took for a new competitive season.

“This is the 21^st title and another page in the glorious history of this club. I was younger then, I’ve got some grey hair now, but I am just as happy as when I was a player. The players deserve the credit today, they were marvellous.”

The Nerazzurri ended last season empty-handed and saw Simone Inzaghi walk away before the Club World Cup, bringing in Chivu after just a few weeks of senior management at Parma.

Few expected him to march to the Serie A title with three games to spare, and potentially set up a Double, seeing as they will play Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.

“For what this club represents, it was our duty to be competitive. There are ups and downs, the season is a marathon, and we were the most consistent team overall, even after losing a few games, because we always managed to react and get back on our feet,” added Chivu.

“I think in January and February we had 14 wins in 15 games, or something like that, we realised that we could do it. We also had to overcome difficult moments like the Champions League exit to Bodo/Glimt, defeat in the derby, but we always kept our heads up with dignity and the desire to be competitive to the end.”

A draw would’ve been enough tonight against Parma, but Inter did better with a 2-0 victory thanks to Marcus Thuram’s fifth game in a row on target, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan tapping in the Lautaro Martinez assist.

“Obviously I am happy, and it’s only right the players take the credit, enjoying all the love and affection of these fans. It was an opportunity to seal the Scudetto in front of the supporters and we did it.”

Chivu seemed to vanish into the tunnel at one point straight after the final whistle, did he want to leave all the spotlight for his players?

“I went to smoke a cigarette, I have some vices, sorry about that. But yes, they deserve it, so does the club, which always tried to comfort and support us in moments of need.”

Where does the coach feel he stepped up and made the difference for his squad?

“I am an unusual person, I had to talk to myself during a moment between life and death, so I lost my ego then. I don’t feel the need to talk about myself,” replied Chivu.

He was referring to the life-changing head injury suffered while playing for Inter, which forced him to wear a protective helmet for the rest of his career.

“I just try to be the best version of myself, to help these lads who sometimes need the carrot, sometimes the stick. I try to draw on the experience I had in many locker rooms, and try not to repeat the errors I dealt with as a player.

“I try to be empathetic, understanding, not to think about the consensus of critics outside, but only on what those who love me think. I am the coach, I will always be up for debate and at risk, that’s the job. You have to accept it, knowing you can only try to do your best. I want to also thank my staff, they are in the same boat as me.”

Traditionally, Serie A is won by the team with the best defence, but Chivu and Inter focused on getting the best attack with over 100 goals.

“We always wanted to be proactive, then depending on the opponents, we had different options, like two playmakers, dealing with their press. It’s also about understanding various moments of the game.

“My predecessors did a great job here too, so if these lads know certain things about the game, it is also thanks to those coaches who came before me, who made it easier for me and my staff. It is the players who win the titles and give you what you dreamed of as a child.”

Chivu managed to win the Scudetto up against legends like Antonio Conte, Max Allegri and Luciano Spalletti.

“They are great coaches and I can only learn from them. I will continue learning from them, those coaches who are young like me can only keep learning,” concluded Chivu.

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Inter fans posted two cryptic banners seconds after the end of their home game against Parma on Sunday, which gave the Nerazzurri their 21st Scudetto.

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Inter are celebrating their 21st Scudetto after a 2-0 home win over Parma on Sunday.

Football Italia is among the accredited media at San Siro, following the game and celebrations, which have been ongoing since kickoff, as the Nerazzurri only needed one point to mathematically clinch the Scudetto with three games to spare.

Follow Inter’s title celebrations on the special Football Italia LIVEBLOG.

Inter fans in Curva Sud, so opposite to the Ultras’ Curva Nord, put up two banners immediately after full-time.

Inter have won their 21st Scudetto, yet their main banner showed a big No. 14 on a Tricolore background.

The banner just underneath read: “+7 against everything and everyone”, referring to seven of Inter’s previous title victories won despite controversial refereeing incidents.

Inter fans in Curva Sud celebrate the title with 14+7 banners

Marcus Thuram and Nicolò Barella insist the genuine bond between players is what gave Inter the strength to ‘get back on our feet’ after ending the season empty-handed, going on to win the Scudetto.

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The Nerazzurri knew going into tonight’s game with Parma at San Siro that they only needed a point to guarantee the Serie A title.

They did even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to beat Zion Suzuki on the stroke of half-time, then Henrikh Mkhitaryan turned in the Lautaro Martinez assist.

You can follow the celebrations on the special Liveblog.

Inter take 21st Serie A title

“Barella is one of the best players in the world, he can do so much, he helped Inter and Italy, in my view he is the best Italian player. I never understood when he was doubted by some people,” Thuram told DAZN Italia.

“He got angry on and off the field, he is one of our captains, and we must not forget that. Since I arrived at Inter, I saw a team that loves to stay together, on and off the field, and that is our strength.”

So many had said that the Inter era was over after they ended last season empty-handed, losing the Champions League Final 5-0 and missing out on the Scudetto by one point to Napoli.

Simone Inzaghi’s departure also raised doubts, but Cristian Chivu has taken them to the title with three rounds to spare, and potentially also a Double, as they face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final on May 13.

“Of course we’re happy! As we always said, this was our objective, we have another in just over a week’s time, this was not easy, but we want to enjoy it now,” Barella told DAZN Italia.

“This is football and life, there are difficult moments, for example last season we came so close to everything and won nothing. In life you must always get back on your feet and I want to thank these lads and the staff, they helped me during tough moments, and I try to give my all.

“I always said that you can make mistakes on the field, but this team never lost the desire to stay together. We always gave everything we had, you can win or lose, but I am so proud of these lads.”

Watch as Marcus Thuram gets the Inter party started against Parma, finding the net for the fifth game in a row, but the celebration didn’t go entirely to plan.

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The Nerazzurri went into tonight’s match knowing a point would be enough to be mathematically crowned the new Champions of Italy, putting them beyond reach of second-placed Napoli.

You can follow all the action as it happens on the Liveblog.

They went even better, as Thuram ran onto the Piotr Zielinski through ball to give them the lead in first half stoppages, sending the San Siro crowd wild.

It was the striker’s fifth consecutive Serie A match on the scoresheet, with so far a total of six goals.

Thuram opens Inter account

A clinical Marcus Thuram finish!

Inter need just one point vs Parma to clinch the Scudetto this evening

Watch live on TNT Sports and HBO Max pic.twitter.com/JZBpkx2M9y

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026

Marcus Thuram puts Inter ahead on the stroke of HT

Reminder, Inter just need to avoid defeat to win the Scudetto today pic.twitter.com/Ewl65KV8ng

— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) May 3, 2026

He tried to go into a knee-slide celebration on the turf, but the pitch wasn’t quite as slick as he expected, and the France international ended up face-down in the grass instead.

Tikus still had fun with it and interrupted his trademark celebration when spotting the Inter social media admin filming on the touchline.

Thuram: admin check pic.twitter.com/KFh2lLBMp0

— Inter (@Inter) May 3, 2026

Luciano Spalletti admits Juventus are ‘disappointed and have regrets’ after a surprising 1-1 draw with Verona, along with tension on the touchline with director Sean Sogliano.

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This was a huge opportunity to catch Milan in third place after the Rossoneri were beaten 2-0 by Sassuolo earlier today, with Napoli and Como also dropping points in the fight for the top four.

It was assumed that Juve would sweep Verona aside in Turin, especially as Hellas had already been mathematically relegated on Friday night and had nothing to play for.

Instead, Kieron Bowie put them ahead and only a Dusan Vlahovic free kick off the bench managed to snatch a 1-1 draw for the Old Lady.

Spalletti frustrated with Juventus errors

“We must always evaluate what happens, analyse things, and then try to improve for the next matches, because those are the ones that matter now, seeing as we didn’t win this one,” Spalletti told Sky Sport Italia.

“Clearly, we are disappointed, we have regrets, and unfortunately this happens in football. We were not fortunate, and with a little more sharpness we could’ve turned it around, even if you cannot always control everything.

“What we can do is stay clear-headed in the moments that matter, and we didn’t do it today. That is one of the qualities that makes a great player, because you can identify those moments where you’ve got to be fully concentrated.”

The coach had warned before kick-off that this was the kind of game where the risk was having 11 great players rather than a team unit.

“I thought we had started quite well, but then Verona locked it down, as is only right for them to do. We created some dangers, but couldn’t break through the right way, then allowed them a few counter-attacks, plus that error which made it all the more difficult.

“The tension cranked up after that, you have the fear of not making it, when everyone is telling you it’s an easy game and you discover it isn’t easy at all,” continued the coach.

“We make mistakes that you see from kids, things that are too banal to be at this level, then in the second half you pin them back and have great moments of football that deserve to win a match.

“We played our game and I think overall we did deserve to win it.”

It was a frustrating evening, as Francisco Conceicao looked furious when substituted after a couple of good chances, while Edon Zhegrova hit the upright in stoppages.

It is remarkable that when the race for a Champions League spot could go down to the wire, Juventus were held to a pair of 1-1 draws by Verona this season.

Of course, both teams had different coaches during the first meeting, as Igor Tudor and Paolo Zanetti were both replaced.

If Roma beat Fiorentina tomorrow, then they will close to within a point of Juve in fifth place.

There was tension in the closing stages when Verona director Sean Sogliano was sent off from the touchline for dissent, then complained bitterly in the press interviews just before Spalletti took to the microphones.

“I don’t understand what the director was talking about,” noted the Juventus coach.

“I will go and see what he was complaining about, but I really don’t understand it, he was a little cryptic, but we never got up from the bench to complain whenever his players stayed down for 30 seconds after every foul, tried to use up every available second on throw-ins, it’s all a bit much.”

Hellas Verona sporting director Sean Sogliano was unhappy with the attitude from Juventus players and staff members during a 1-1 draw at the Allianz Stadium: ‘If I say what I really think, I’d probably have to stop working.’

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Verona held Juventus to a 1-1 draw in Turin on Sunday despite already being relegated to Serie B.

The Gialloblu even took the lead in the first half, but Dusan Vlahovic levelled the score after being introduced as a substitute in the second half.

As usual, Verona director Sogliano followed the match from the touchline alongside Verona reserves and staff members, but the director was sent off for dissent in the very last minute after the referee had awarded a free kick to Juventus.

Safe to say, Sogliano was unhappy with the attitude of the Bianconeri players and staff.

“I was sent off today as well because I saw things I don’t like,” he told Sky Sport via FcInter1908.

“We are talking about culture and the fact that we’re not going to the World Cup. Here it’s always the same story. Even against an already-relegated team, I heard things I don’t want to repeat, because if I say what I really think, I’d probably have to stop working.

“A strong team that complains about the referee when, in a minute, fans would have been putting the ball in the net for them,” Sogliano continued.

“Verona showed pride and earned a point. And if someone gets sent off for losing their temper over certain things, film both benches; then we’ll have something to talk about besides VAR. I’m saying this as someone who’s already been relegated, so nobody really cares. I’m going home with my players and the club because we’re people with pride.”

Today’s draw leaves Juventus in fourth, four points above Roma, who have a game in hand against Fiorentina on Monday.

Juventus fans booed Jonathan David when he was substituted in the second half of a 1-1 draw against Hellas Verona on Sunday.

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Juventus fans showed their discontent towards Canada striker David on Sunday as the 26-year-old was booed while being subbed off in a home game against already-relegated Verona.

David started the match and was subbed off at minute 70, with the score already 1-1.

As reported by TMW and other media outlets, most Juventus fans were unhappy with the Canadian’s performance and showed their unhappiness when he left the field to make room for Fabio Miretti.

Dusan Vlahovic had been introduced a few minutes earlier, scoring the equaliser for the Bianconeri.

The Serbia international had missed several months of action because of a muscle injury that required surgery in December 2025 and scored his first goal since October.

David is in his first season at Juventus, where he has netted eight goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.

According to Tuttosport, Aston Villa and Fenerbahce are interested in securing his services this summer.

Inter President Beppe Marotta admits he didn’t expect Cristian Chivu to win the Scudetto in his first season, and potentially the Coppa Italia too. ‘We didn’t go in blind, but showed courage.’

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The game with Parma kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

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

The champagne is on ice in the dressing room, because just one point tonight will be enough to guarantee the Nerazzurri become Champions of Italy.

As Napoli and Milan both dropped points already this weekend, a draw will suffice to get the Scudetto party started.

Marotta ready for Inter success

“Let’s be prudent here. We know that this is the most important exam for the diploma, and we’ll give it our all to achieve this target that would make the fans, players, club and coach happy,” Marotta told DAZN Italia.

“We hope it can be a great game and that is concluded with the Scudetto, but Parma deserve respect.”

Chivu had been a contentious choice when picked to replace Simone Inzaghi, but has proved to be a success with the title and potentially also the Coppa Italia.

“An important value for Inter is courage, I think that is the main fuel behind this decision made by the owners on one side and the management on the other. We certainly didn’t go in blind, we evaluated Chivu’s skills and characteristics, which suited our needs and our weaknesses,” explained the President.

“We had no doubts he would have a positive campaign, but if it ends with the Scudetto and the Coppa Italia, that would be a truly extraordinary season.”

Inter are hoping to make this a Double, because they will face Lazio in the Coppa Italia Final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 13.

However, they haven’t clinched the title on home turf for 37 years, so doing it at San Siro would be a relatively new experience.

“We were optimistic from the start, as Chivu worked in our youth academy, so we knew him as a coach and a person with great values. Admittedly, we didn’t expect him to have such a remarkable season, with the only blotch being that Champions League elimination, but these things happen.

“We are very pleased, because he came up through our youth academy, which adds to the pride of this club.”

This is set to be the 10^th Scudetto for Marotta at two different clubs, as he won with both Juventus and Inter, but this would be his first as a club President.

He was asked if he had any updates on the refereeing scandal and the suggestions that Inter did not want certain referees?

“No, I have nothing to add to last week, we are very relaxed and not concerned.”

Massimiliano Allegri says that he understands his fan’s frustrations, but has urged for calm after watching his Milan side fall to a disappointing 2-0 defeat away against Sassuolo on Sunday afternoon. 

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The Rossoneri conceded within the first few minutes of both halves; Domenico Berardi finding the net after five minutes and Armand Lauriente after 47, which means that they have now won just one of their last five matches in Serie A. Now, the Rossoneri could potentially slip down to fourth place by the end of Sunday evening. 

Click here to follow the action from all of Sunday’s Serie A matches.

Allegri responds after Sassuolo 2-0 Milan: ‘We approached both halves badly’

“We approached both halves badly, especially the second. We threw it away, that’s how it’s going in this period. You can’t waste 10 months of work. Now we have to think about Atalanta,” said Allegri in a post-match interview with DAZN (via TMW).

“Technically, we made a lot of mistakes. It was a bad day, a bad Sunday. We have to meet again on Tuesday and work to fix it.” 

Despite the fact that Milan have not yet secured a Champions League spot for next season, Allegri has no doubt that the Rossoneri will finish the 2025-26 season in the all-important top four. 

“It’s not at risk. I would be very happy to confirm it on the final day as well, I’ve always said it. I am with the team every day and this is a difficult moment. We have to stay calm and take responsibility, we have to prepare as best we can for the game against Atalanta.

“We’ve done 10 months of good work, we’re in the final stretch. We haven’t done very well in the second half of the season, we can’t change that anymore. We just have to look ahead.

“Until the end, we have to stay grounded and work to overcome these moments of difficulty. I understand the fans, we all wanted to get over the finish line quickly, but we can’t get anxious.” 

Allegri does not deny the fact that the sending off of Fikayo Tomori after 24 minutes had a big impact on proceedings, but didn’t appear too critical of his centre-back, despite his two early yellow cards. 

“The sending off conditioned the game. These things happen. The important thing is to get back up quickly. We need two positive results to get into the Champions League, let’s just think about that.” 

Allegri was also asked why he decided to take off Christopher Nkunku for Zachary Athekame at the half-time interval. 

“I wanted to take the game forward as much as possible and give some balance, but it didn’t help because we immediately conceded.” 

Luciano Spalletti warns Juventus risk taking Verona for granted with an opportunity to catch Milan in third place. ‘The danger is to be 11 great players rather than a great team.’

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It kicks off at the Allianz Juventus Stadium in Turin at 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST).

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

With Como held to a 0-0 draw by Napoli and Roma facing Fiorentina on Monday, this is an opportunity for the Bianconeri to consolidate fourth place and that Champions League ticket.

Even better, as Milan lost 2-0 to Sassuolo this afternoon, a victory would put the Old Lady in joint third position.

Spalletti keeps Juventus focused

Juve are unbeaten in eight Serie A games, winning five and drawing the other three, the longest positive streak in the league.

That includes a run of four consecutive clean sheets, conceding only once in the last seven rounds.

“We need to analyse the performances, not just the results,” warned Spalletti on Sky Sport Italia.

“We want to keep doing more than we did the day before, sport is a daily competition to always challenge yourself with something new. If you keep using the same techniques as in the past, it’s natural the others will surpass you, so we must focus on the performances and try to become what we want to be.”

Verona are already relegated, so the danger today is that Juve will take the victory for granted.

“When there are games like this, players tend to become 11 great players rather than a great team, so we need to be focused, ready to work, able to fill the whole game and not just do one thing, help your teammates, go beyond your usual characteristics. This unity is what helps everyone going forward.”

Kenan Yildiz had been on the bench for the last two games against Bologna and Milan, but has shaken off that recurring inflammation for a return to the starting XI.

Jonathan David is confirmed upfront with Francisco Conceicao in a 3-4-3 formation, sending Jeremie Boga and not fully fit Dusan Vlahovic to the bench after the 0-0 at San Siro.

“Yildiz could be a university professor in terms of team spirit, because he always wants to be with other people, he knows how to behave in a group, he’s a splendid lad, so we trust he will show us something good today,” noted Spalletti.

“Vlahovic had a nasty injury, he is recovering, and if we need someone with his characteristics today, then he too is available to help the team at this moment.”

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