Football Italia’s transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà examines referee controversies from Torino-Cremonese and Parma-Lazio and criticises the reported proposal to reschedule a big game from Round 30 by just 45 minutes.
Cremonese were not given a penalty kick despite a clear Simeone handball, a kind of incident that previously led to opposite decisions from the referee and VAR.
PARMA, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Valentin Castellanos of SS Lazio kiks the ball 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)
“They need to explain how this works, because it can’t go on like this,” Pedullà said.
“VAR unplagged itself and decided not to intervene; that’s not a penalty! So they need to guide us on all the other situations that, in the same circumstances, should not be penalties either.”
The Italian pundit also praised Cremonese coach Davide Nicola for the sportsmanship shown in post-match interviews.
Pedullà also criticised the latest proposal, which appeared in the Italian media, to potentially postpone a big game of Round 30 by just 45 minutes in order to give Gennaro Gattuso more rested players for the World Cup play-off in March.
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)
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.
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.
Atalanta are fresh from a Champions League win over Chelsea, so Ademola Lookman, Charles De Ketelaere and Gianluca Scamacca face Marco Palestra’s Cagliari.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta controls the ball whilst under pressure from Moises Caicedo of Chelsea 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 Carl Recine/Getty Images)
That result put them in the top eight and they could even go straight into the Round of 16 if they keep up this kind of European form.
However, they’re still playing catch-up domestically after the dismal Ivan Juric era, and under Raffaele Palladino have lost to Napoli and Verona around a 2-0 win over Fiorentina.
Remarkably, that was their only victory in the last 10 Serie A rounds.
Raoul Bellanova limped off during the Chelsea game and is ruled out for circa a month, along with Kamaldeen Sulemana and Mitchel Bakker.
Isak Hien is also out of action after coming down with flu symptoms.
De Ketelaere, Scamacca and Lookman are starting to really gel as a front three, so there are no changes there.
Squad rotation is in defence, as midweek Sead Kolasinac had his first start since knee surgery in April, but he starts again.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Raffaele Palladino head coach of Atalanta BC 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)
Cagliari had been on a negative run of four draws in the last nine rounds, but ended it with a shock 1-0 victory over 10-man Roma.
Colombia international veteran Yerry Mina is still out of action, along with Mattia Felici, Ze Pedro and Andrea Belotti, but Adam Obert returns to the squad.
Gennaro Borrelli, Sebastiano Esposito and Michael Folorunsho lead the attack, but the player being watched most carefully is Palestra.
That is partly for his many impressive performances down the right flank in recent weeks, but above all because he is on loan from Atalanta.
The 20-year-old was a star of their youth academy and has been given this opportunity to prove himself in Serie A.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – OCTOBER 19: Marco Palestra of Cagliari in action during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Sant’Elia on October 19, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Atalanta vs. Cagliari official line-ups
Atalanta: Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Bernasconi; De Ketelaere, Scamacca, Lookman
Cesc Fabregas reveals he had an ‘unpleasant’ conversation with the coach of Senegal, prepares to face Roma, and is glad the Australian match with AC Milan seems to be off.
The Lariani are in action on Monday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 19.45 GMT.
“I am very curious to see how the team reacts to three consecutive away games, as it is a new experience for me too,” said Fabregas.
“At times we analyse things too much, and that is all my fault, I raise my hand in front of the players, the loss to Inter was my defeat because of the way I prepared against a top team.
“I saw their defeat to Liverpool and I think we did many things better than they did, but we are a work in progress. If I want Jacobo Ramon to become like Konate or Van Dijk, who made such a big difference defensively, then he needs to learn from these experiences.”
Fabregas ready to take risks with Como
FLORENCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Cesc Fabregas manager of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Como 1907 at Artemio Franchi on September 21, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Despite that setback, Como are still flying high in the Serie A table and are ahead of Juventus.
“In the last 25 games, we lost only three, two of them against Inter and the other Bologna,” continued Fabregas.
“This is a competitive team, it doesn’t give up, it wants to play with its own identity.”
Fabregas is also not shy about standing up for his club, even if his power is ultimately not enough to really shift things.
This is revealed in the way he discussed losing Assane Diao to international duty with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations next month.
“He is called up and I spoke to him after the game with Inter. I spoke to the coach of Senegal, it was an unpleasant conversation. They have all the power here. Diao will go, if that’s the way they want to deal with it. He’s leaving on Tuesday.”
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
When it comes to power, the clubs had been pushing to reschedule the Serie A game against AC Milan in Australia, but new problems make that unlikely.
There are also concerns for Alvaro Morata due to injury, so he won’t be risked, and Tasos Douvikas should step in upfront.
Maxi Perrone is suspended in midfield and Sergi Roberto nowhere near fully fit either.
Gian Piero Gasperini has influenced so many coaches in Italian football over the years, including a relatively late arrival to Serie A like Fabregas.
“I know Gasperini is a special coach with remarkable methodology that he created, something very different within Italian football. Many coaches, Spanish an English, call me to ask why he does this or that.
“You have to say, wow, this is Gasperini. He created this vision for many years, a clear identity, and helps young players to grow, so for this I have enormous respect.”
COMO, ITALY – AUGUST 24: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on August 24, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas has also tried to create his own identity at Como, which is why he does not regret the aggressive approach against Inter, even if they lost 4-0.
“I hear Max Allegri at Milan saying they want to finish in the top four, but want to do it their way. I say the same, we want to get there with our own identity. I could’ve been more defensive against Inter, but for the way I see football, it wouldn’t have helped our growth process. We go to the Stadio Olimpico with our ideas.
“I saw the statistics of the Liverpool game, and Inter ran a lot more against us than with Liverpool. I want to create an identity here, which means going to San Siro and playing our game. You can call me arrogant for that, but I prefer this to just going to defend and hope for the best.”
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.
Massimiliano Allegri feels Christian Pulisic still has room for improvement but the American star has proved to be ‘diabolical’ in front of the goal.
Allegri praised Pulisic during today’s press conference on the eve of a Serie A match against Sassuolo.
Pulisic inspired Milan’s 3-2 win over Torino on Monday and is the joint Serie A top-goalscorer alongside Inter’s Lautaro Martinez with seven goals.
Allegri comments on Pulisic
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan celebrates after scoring their team’s first goalduring 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)
“He still has room for improvement. In his private life, he’s very reserved, but he transforms on the pitch. He’s diabolical when he’s in front of the goal. He still needs to find his best condition,” Allegri said via Milan News.
Pulisic has covered any role in the Milan attack during his stay at the club. Could he be deployed as an attacking midfielder in the future?
“I don’t know if in the future he’ll have to play deeper. I’ll just say that we have to try to get Gimenez back, hopefully,” Allegri replied.
Allegri needs ‘more options’ in attack
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)
“Above all, to have four forwards to choose from, especially because we’ll have many matches in January. Getting Athekame, Fofana and Leao back already gives us more options on the pitch; that’s why recovering Gimenez is important.”
During his press conference, Allegri confirmed that Fofana and Leao would miss tomorrow’s match but will be available for the Supercoppa semifinal against Napoli next week.
The Coppa Italia Final Four will be staged in Riyadh next week, involving Milan, Napoli, Inter and Bologna.
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.”
Former Inter star Gianluca Pagliuca believes Guglielmo Vicario is a ‘very good goalkeeper’ but is not ‘top-class’ while Gigio Donnarumma is the best in the world.
La Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Tottenham keeper Vicario is open to joining Inter next summer as the Nerazzurri will be looking for a replacement for Yann Sommer in 2026-27.
“It would be a good idea, with full respect for Sommer,” Pagliuca, a former Inter goalkeeper, told Gazzetta via Fcinter1098.it
‘Vicario not a top-class goalkeeper’
UDINE, ITALY – AUGUST 13: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur fails to save a penalty kick from Goncalo Ramos of Paris Saint-Germain (not pictured) during the UEFA Super Cup 2025 match between Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham Hotspur at Stadio Friuli on August 13, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
“Yann is a reliable goalkeeper and has experience. I don’t know what Inter want to do, but the fact that he’s been questioned over two mistakes seems a bit excessive to me.”
As for Vicario, the former Italy international seems to have clear ideas: “He’s a very good goalkeeper, the second choice for our national team. He has experience in Italy and also in the Premier League,” Pagliuca said.
“However, I don’t see him as a top-class player yet. He has experience because he’s been between the posts for a long time; he’s 29, but he doesn’t give me the feeling of being a top player.”
Pagliuca, Italy’s starting goalkeeper in the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, also praised Inter’s second-choice goalkeeper Josep Martinez: “I really like him,” he said.
Pagliuca ranks the top three goalkeepers in the world
21 Oct 1998: Gianluca Pagliuca of Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League match against Spartak Moscow at the San Siro in Milan, Italy. Inter won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Shaun Botterill /Allsport
Lastly, he ranked the top-three goalkeepers in the world: “In an overall ranking of No.1s, I’d put Gigio [Donnarumma] first, then Courtois and then Dibu Martinez, who, I don’t know whether will remain in Birmingham.”
Pagliuca played for Sampdoria, Inter, Bologna and Ascoli in Serie A, collecting 592 appearances in Italy’s top flight.
The former goalkeeper won the Scudetto in 1990-91 with Sampdoria and the 1997-98 UEFA Cup, now Europa League, with Inter.
He retired after spending the last season of his career at Ascoli in 2006-07.
Marco Palestra is shining for Cagliari, but Atalanta still have control of the 20-year-old who was on Roma and Juventus’ agenda last summer.
Palestra has recently been linked with several Serie A heavyweights, a natural, if somewhat belated, recognition of the outstanding form shown by the 2005-born right-back.
Explosive, tireless and devastating down the flank, Palestra looks unstoppable, and tonight, he’ll experience a very special match as he’ll return home for Atalanta-Cagliari.
Palestra returns to Bergamo
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Francisco Fernandes da Conceicao of Juventus FC competes with Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The promising defender will face the club that still own his registration rights, Atalanta.
Last summer, La Dea sent the 20-year-old to Cagliari on a dry loan deal. The Sardinians were looking for a replacement for Nadir Zortea, who had joined Bologna, and beat competition from Parma.
Roma and Juventus’ interest in Palestra
CAGLIARI, ITALY – OCTOBER 30: Marco Palestra (L) of Cagliari challenges for the ball during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Sant’Elia on October 30, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Palestra is a player that Gian Piero Gasperini mentioned when he was appointed as the new Roma coach last summer, but then the Giallorossi focused on Brazilian right-back Wesley.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Filip Kostic of Juventus FC in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Even Juventus made an offer to sign Palestra last summer, as we reported on July 22. The Bianconeri were prepared to offer money and Filip Kostic, but Atalanta stood firm and opted to send Palestra on loan to Cagliari, keeping control of the player.
Check out the probable line-ups and latest team news for Saturday’s three Serie A matches: Torino vs. Cremonese, Parma vs. Lazio and Atalanta vs. Cagliari.
Today, Saturday, December 13, there are three more matches: Torino vs. Cremonese at 15:00 CET (14:00 GMT), Parma vs. Lazio at 18:00 CET and Atalanta vs. Cagliari at 20:45 CET.
CREMONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Jamie Vardy of US Cremonese celebrates after scoring the 1-2 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and Juventus FC at Stadio Giovanni Zini on November 01, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY – AUGUST 31: Valentin Castellanos of Lazio celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Hellas Verona FC at Stadio Olimpico on August 31, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Watch on TV: DAZN in the UK and Ireland, Paramount+ in the USA
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)
Atalanta vs. Cagliari
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Hien, Djimsiti; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Zalewski; De Ketelaere, Lookman; Scamacca.
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
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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.’
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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)
Francesco Camarda starts up front for Lecce against Alberto Gilardino’s Pisa in an early relegation six-pointer in Serie A on Friday evening.
It is a matter of 17th vs.18th this evening, and with just three points separating the sides, level on goal difference, goals scored and goals against, the loser of tonight’s match will spend the next week in the relegation zone. Pisa will remain in the bottom three if tonight’s game ends level.
Two of Lecce’s league wins this season have come in their last five matches, against Fiorentina and Torino, while Pisa have only won once in Serie A so far this season: A 1-0 victory at home against Cremonese on November 7.
LECCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30:Santiago Pierotti competes for the ball with Kristjan Asllani of Torino FC during the Serie A match between US Lecce and Torino FC at Stadio Via del Mare on November 30, 2025. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Lecce were beaten by Cremonese last time out in the league, and have made three alterations to their starting line-up from that game. Milan loanee Camarda starts at centre-forward in place of Nikola Stulic, with Riccardo Sottil called in to replace Lameck Banda on the wing. Corrie Ndaba starts over Antonino Gallo at left-back.
Pisa are without M’Bala Nzola for three matches after his completely unnecessary sending off against Parma last weekend. He is part of four changes made by Gilardino. Stefano Moreo starts at centre-forward, while Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Isak Vural and Mehdi Leris come in to start in the midfield.
Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino enjoyed the team’s performance against Chelsea, especially ‘ in terms of sacrifice’ but wants to see more of the same against Cagliari: ‘It’s a maturity test.’
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Raffaele Palladino, Head Coach of Atalanta BC looks on prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and ACF Fiorentina at Gewiss Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
On Tuesday, they shocked Chelsea in the Champions League with a 2-1 comeback win in Bergamo.
“It was an excellent match in terms of spirit and sacrifice. I want to see a team that understands the moments, defending and attacking together,” Palladino said at a press conference via Gianluca Di Marzio.
“Of course, we must work to improve the approach; it’s fundamental.”
Palladino went on to praise Italy starlet Honest Ahanor, who was introduced in the second half against the Blues.
“Ahanor is a talent that we have to develop. He played a great game against Chelsea, and I really like his spirit. Being bold and making the most, 110%, of every chance he’s given.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Raffaele Palladino head coach of Atalanta BC 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)
La Dea have lost four of the last five Serie A games, and tomorrow they host a Cagliari side who beat Roma 1-0 last week.
“I expect the right spirit and a response from the team. It’s the group that makes the difference, and for us, it is a maturity test,” Palladino concluded.
“Serie A games are always difficult, even against lower-table teams. Tomorrow we face a Cagliari side that defend well and can rely on players with great stamina. The wish is to keep the same spirit we had on Tuesday.”
Atalanta sit 12th in the Serie A table and have only won three matches domestically this season.
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”.
Reports in Italy suggest that Sassuolo striker Andrea Pinamonti has attracted interest from Milan, Lazio and West Ham for the January transfer window.
Italian striker Pinamonti could leave Sassuolo next month, according to Calciomercato.com and Goal.com.
Both Italian media outlets claim that the 26-year-old, scorer of four goals in 14 Serie A appearances this season, has attracted interest from Milan, Lazio and West Ham.
Pinamonti could leave Sassuolo in January
SASSUOLO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Andrea Pinamonti of Sassuolo runs onto the ball during the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and Udinese Calcio at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on September 28, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The Hammers had already been linked with Pinamonti last summer.
West Ham are very much involved in Italian transfer news today, as Gazzetta reported in the morning that Niclas Fullkrug wants to leave the London-based club next month.
BERGAMO, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Andrea Pinamonti of Sassuolo celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates Domenico Berardi and Tarik Muharemovic during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and US Sassuolo Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)
According to the pink paper, Milan are among the clubs monitoring the German centre-forward.
Calciomercato.com reports that Pinamonti could leave Sassuolo on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy in the January transfer window.
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 Italian striker already spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Genoa and returned to Sassuolo after their promotion to Serie A.
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.
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.
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.
AS Roma have officially opened negotiations with Manchester United to sign Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The initialization of the talks follows approval from the Friedkin ownership, aiming to strengthen coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s attack amid poor recent performances and the likely departure of Evan Ferguson. Sporting director Ricky Massara is […]
AS Roma have officially opened negotiations with Manchester United to sign Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The initialization of the talks follows approval from the Friedkin ownership, aiming to strengthen coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s attack amid poor recent performances and the likely departure of Evan Ferguson. Sporting director Ricky Massara is […]
Udinese are losing pieces, through injuries and with the Africa Cup of Nations approaching.
There’s a flexor lesion in Jordan Zemura’s right thigh, meaning the left wing-back will not be able to join up with Zimbabwe for AFCON.
For Udinese it’s another problem in a department already stripped down: Rui Modesto will leave for Angola, while Kamara is dealing with plantar fasciitis.
UDINE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 18: Jordan Zemura of Udinese celebrates scoring a goal during the Serie A TIM match between Udinese Calcio and Cagliari – Serie A TIM at Bluenergy Stadium on February 18, 2024 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Udinese down to barebones as Lookman future not on the agenda at Atalanta
The market is still a way off. For now, the Friulani must find an in-house solution, something to patch up the emergency on the flanks. January will come later.
And the market, at least for the moment, does not affect Ademola Lookman. He has taken back his place at Atalanta and is fully focused on the commitment with Nigeria.
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta BC in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD3 match between Atalanta BC and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio di Bergamo on October 22, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
When he returns to Italy, the picture will be clearer. But right now, interest in him has not produced anything concrete.
Rocco Commisso moved to end speculation over a potential change of ownership at Fiorentina, using a wide-ranging interview with La Nazione to underline that the club “is not for sale” and to urge calm during what he admits is a “difficult moment” for the Viola.
The president said recent rumours of a takeover had only added “destabilisation” around the team, stressing that hardship is something every organisation must manage. “All companies go through difficult periods,” he said, with quotes via Sky Sport Italia.
“But the foresight of those who lead them lies in learning from dark moments so we can come out stronger. I have never given up in any of my businesses, and I certainly won’t start now.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – MARCH 30: Rocco Commisso president of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and Atalanta at Stadio Artemio Franchi on March 30, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Fiorentina president Commisso: ‘We cannot allow the club to go down’
Commisso, currently unable to travel to Italy due to health reasons, said being away from Florence is “painful”, but he maintains full confidence in the club’s structure. He highlighted the daily involvement of his wife Catherine and his son Giuseppe, as well as the work of general director Alessandro Ferrari and newly-promoted sporting director Roberto Goretti.
The president also issued a firm message about the team’s predicament. “We’re in a difficult situation and we have to get out of it in any way,” he noted. “We cannot allow Fiorentina to go down. Everyone must feel responsible, the club, the players, everyone who works around the team.” He reiterated full backing for coach Paolo Vanoli, saying the coach “has my total trust” and is “working day and night” to lift the side.
SASSUOLO, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Paolo Vanoli, Head Coach of ACF Fiorentina, looks on prior to the Serie A match between US Sassuolo Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Mapei Stadium Citta del Tricolore on December 06, 2025 in Sassuolo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Commisso also reflected on the departures of Stefano Pioli and Daniele Pradè, admitting the second Pioli spell “didn’t work” despite major investment, while praising Pradè as a “loyal and trusted” figure.
He closed with a message to supporters after the defeat to Sassuolo. “We must apologise. Four thousand of them came, and we didn’t respond as we should have. We need everyone: above all our fans. I miss you. Stay close to the team.”
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.
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”.
Udinese director Gökhan Inler feels Nicolò Zaniolo is on the right path towards a return to the Italy national team and describes his former Leicester City teammate Jamie Vardy as a ‘crazy guy’ and ‘ great leader.’
Udinese director Inler believes Italy should give Zaniolo another chance in 2026, when the Azzurri will play in the World Cup play-off.
“Before Nicolo came to us, we had a conversation with him and the coach together to convince him to join the project. He also said he wanted to rebuild his career as he had some issues with injuries,” Inler told the Italian Football Podcast.
“He believes that he can give something back to the national team. Since he came here, he has worked really hard, he is working really hard. He is an emotional guy, he needs this, but he is really working really hard. So far, very positive guy.
Zaniolo: Zaniolo should get Italy call-up
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)
“He is also a very strong player. You also saw him in England; he has quality. And of course, in my opinion, now that he is scoring goals, he is really getting there where the national team needs him. I think the next call-up, the national team should call him.”
Udinese signed Zaniolo on loan with an option to buy from Galatasaray last summer, and the Italian has scored four goals in 12 Serie A appearances with Udinese this season.
Another Udinese player, Oumar Solet, is delivering convincing performances in Udine, attracting interest from top clubs, according to reports.
“Oumar is an amazing player. He has already experienced the Champions League. He is a great personality. On the pitch, you see he can change the game himself,” Inler said.
“You remember that goal against Inter where he started driving the ball from behind, he started and he shot. He is really an important transfer for us. Let’s say we were a bit lucky when we signed him. He had some issues. We prepared him for some months here at Udine to get fit.
“It was not easy, four months of training without playing in a competition. I remember his first game, it was, I think, in January, his first game was against Verona, from 0 to 100, and after this game, all of Serie A was talking about him.
“That’s why I think we did a great job mentally and also physically. I hope he stays with us for a long time, but of course, as I said before, great players always have opportunities; however, we are here to build a great Udinese.”
A former Switzerland international, Inler won the Premier League title with Leicester City in 2015-16, playing alongside Vardy, now at Cremonese.
Inler: ‘Amazing’ Vardy
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 01: Jamie Vardy of Cremonese acknowledges the fans as he leaves the pitch after being substituted 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)
“Jamie is amazing. Crazy guy, he knows that but he really is a great leader, respectful. Also, a great teammate, working a lot in this period for the dressing room,” Inler said.
“We went to his house for the celebration [when we won the Premier League]. Jamie was a crazy guy yes, RedBull before games, he was hyperactive, jumping left and right, shooting balls in the dressing room. In Italy, you never see this, music at high volume, it was like a disco [laughs].
“But in the games, you saw, he explodes, he runs left, right, shoots everywhere. Also, now, I met him with Cremonese. He is still the same. You saw he scored two goals against Bologna last week.
“Also, he had difficulties before he became a champion. He respected the rules, he made a great career. We are still in touch, he is a great player, and I am proud to have played with a nice and crazy guy.”
José Mourinho admits he would even ‘go to the Circo Massimo’ to celebrate the Serie A title with Roma, but ‘unfortunately’, only Milan, Inter and Napoli will fight for the Scudetto.
Benfica coach Mourinho admits he’d return to Italy to celebrate the Serie A title with Roma fans.
The former Inter and Roma boss was asked his thoughts on the Scudetto race at a post-match press conference last night, after a 2-0 win over Napoli in the Champions League, and, as usual, his reply was very honest.
Mourinho’s Serie A title prediction
LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 05: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between SL Benfica and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at on November 05, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
“It’s tough. Inter have a top team and great potential, same as Napoli. Milan play once a week. They have a fantastic coach like Max [Allegri], who can coach in a way that Antonio [Conte] and Cristian [Chivu] can’t because they have many games to play,” Mourinho argued.
“Unfortunately, I think it will be among these three.”
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: David Neres of Napoli scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on November 30, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Mourinho has made history with Inter, winning the treble in 2010 with Chivu in his team, so he felt he had to explain why he said ‘unfortunately.’
Mourinho supports Roma in Serie A title race
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 30: José Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between Chelsea FC and SL Benfica at Stamford Bridge on September 30, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
“I’d love it, and I’d even go to the Circo Massimo, but I don’t think so.”
The Circo Massimo is the place where Roma fans usually gather every time the team wins a trophy.
Mourinho knows how it feels to win for the Giallorossi, having lifted the Conference League in 2022.
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.
Arsenal are eyeing both Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao as long-term targets in attack, and are not currently seeking to sign a new striker.
As first reported here in my exclusive for the Daily Briefing, Arsenal still have a lot of faith in Viktor Gyokeres after spending big to sign him from Sporting Lisbon in the summer.
As such, the Gunners are not looking for a new centre-forward to replace Gyokeres, but are keeping in mind other attackers who could come in to help the Sweden international.
Sources tell me the names that feature most high up on Arsenal’s list are Rodrygo and Leao, who have long been on the north Londoners’ radar.
Arsenal relaxed about Viktor Gyokeres but eyeing Rodrygo Goes and Rafael Leao
Arsenal have made changes to their attack in recent times, with Gyokeres not the only new addition to Mikel Arteta’s front three over the summer.
Rafael Leao celebrates a goal for AC Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Noni Madueke also joined, and has played on both the left and right flanks, while Eberechi Eze has also sometimes been used in a front three when he’s not deputised for Martin Odegaard in a more central role.
Still, Leandro Trossard is not getting any younger, and Gabriel Martinelli has been a little inconsistent, while both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have had a lot of injury troubles.
That could leave room for a player of the profile or Rodrygo or Leao to come in and offer something different to help generally improve the strength of that front three.
Leao has mostly shone for Milan so would likely be a popular choice, and the stats below seem to back up that he might have the most all-round qualities to offer in that role…
Gabriel Martinelli stats vs Rafael Leao and Rodrygo Goes (DataMB)
Leao has this season performed best on non penalty goals and expected goals, as well as key passes and assists, though Rodrygo stands out for his dribbles and carries.
It will be interesting to see if either of these players end up being top targets soon, or if Arteta can work out an internal solution to get more out of Gyokeres at centre-forward.
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.
New Inter signing Andy Diouf contributed to Inter’s 5-1 win over Venezia in the Coppa Italia Round of 16, and the Frenchman’s versatility could offer him even more chances going forward.
Diouf scored his first goal for Inter on Wednesday, opening the account in a comfortable 5-1 win over Serie B side Venezia in the Coppa Italia Round of 16.
Diouf joined Inter last summer, but has been struggling with playing time so far, collecting just 144 minutes on the pitch. Technically, the 22-year-old was drafted in to boost Cristian Chivu’s options in central midfield, but Diouf has been tested in a different role in recent weeks at the Stadio Meazza.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 03: Andy Diouf of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Marcus Thuram during the Coppa Italia round of 16 match between FC Internazionale and Venezia FC at San Siro Stadium on December 03, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The former Rennes man, in fact, played the last two games as a right midfielder. First in a Serie A match against Pisa, where he made a substitute appearance, playing for 23 minutes, and then against Venezia in Coppa Italia, when he played the full match and scored after just 18 minutes.
“I’m happy for those who played their first at San Siro, those Under-23 players who I knew pretty well,” Chivu said at full-time.
“I’m pleased for Andy Diouf, who had his first start and full 90 minutes, and scored a goal. There are many reasons to be happy this evening.”
As Chivu continues to shape Inter’s squad, Romanian gambling sites are buzzing with predictions on how far the coach can take the Nerazzurri, and other new signings have been instrumental in the team’s positive results so far this season.
One that surely stands out is Ange Bonny, who moved to San Siro from Parma and has proved to be a very reliable backup to starting strikers Marcus Thiram and Lautaro Martinez.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 09: Ange-Yoan Bonny of Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Bonny has collected five goals and six assists across all competitions this season, netting four times in Serie A and once in Coppa Italia.
Petar Sucic, a Croatian central midfielder, was obviously not as effective in the final third but has been showing great personality in replacing veteran Henrikh Mkhitaryan and still grabbed one goal and two assists so far.
Luis Henrique, on the other hand, has been struggling more than the other newcomers, having failed to earn a starting spot even after Denzel Dumfries’ injury.
The Brazilian started as a left midfielder against Venezia in Inter’s latest Coppa Italia match. He showed promising improvements, but was still subbed off at minute 60, making room for the product of Inter academy Matteo Cocchi, who made his second appearance at a senior level for the Serie A giants.
According to Football Insider, AS Roma are the frontrunners in the race for the services of Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. Apparently, the Netherlands international is of strong interest to the Serie A side, while the 20-time English champions remain undecisive about what they should do on that front. Zirkzee was believed to be frustrated […]
According to Football Insider, AS Roma are the frontrunners in the race for the services of Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. Apparently, the Netherlands international is of strong interest to the Serie A side, while the 20-time English champions remain undecisive about what they should do on that front. Zirkzee was believed to be frustrated […]
Liverpool and Barcelona have been told that they need to pay £50 million for Ederson, according to Football Insider. Last season’s Premier League winngers as well as the defending Spanish champions are keen on the Brazilian midfielder, who is one of the best players for Serie A outfit Atalanta. Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, he’s […]
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