Cristiano Ronaldo and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../series-a-ibrahimovic-winner-lifts-ac-milan- gloom-with-victory-at-cagliari-273727">Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic</a>&nbsp;are set to go head-to-head in Thursday's Italian Cup semi-final, first leg between Juventus and AC Milan at the San Siro.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-breaks-juventus-record-scores-for-10th-consecutive-time-279751" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo breaks Juventus record, scores for 10th consecutive time</a>

Both Ronaldo and&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;scored at the weekend in defeats as Juventus fell 2-1 at Hellas Verona, while AC Milan threw away a two-goal lead in a 4-2 defeat by city rivals Inter.

"It wasn't the result we wanted," said the 35-year-old Ronaldo despite becoming the first Juventus player to score in 10 successive league games, just one game short of the Serie A record.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has scored 23 goals in all competitions this season.

Ibrahimovic, 38, has scored three goals since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../football-ibrahimovic-returns-to-italy-as-final- chapter-looms-270707">returning to Milan last month</a>.

The Swede headed in the second goal on Sunday after setting up the first, but Inter hit back with four second-half strikes.

"I showed that I can still make a difference, even at 38," he said.

But Inter striker Romelu Lukaku will be looking to upstage the two other former Manchester United players against Napoli in the other last-four first leg on Wednesday.

Gennaro Gattuso's Napoli, despite their current slump, ousted holders Lazio in the quarter-finals.

"There's a new king in town," a jubilant Lukaku wrote on Twitter after scoring the fourth goal for Inter in Sunday's derby.&nbsp;

"We run this town."

The Belgian was replying to&nbsp;Ibrahimovic's pre-derby post saying that "lions don't compare themselves to humans".

Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri has reason to be worried by his side's away form, with the defending Serie A champions having lost their last two games on the road.

"I hope that someone will help me, it's something we have to resolve," Sarri said after the loss to Verona.

"Right now we have a difference in performance between home and away."

Juventus are bidding to reclaim the trophy which they held for four seasons until losing to eventual runners-up Atalanta in the quarters last year.

Antonio Conte's Inter are the only one of the four semi-finalists to win in Serie A at the weekend, with Napoli crashing to a 3-2 defeat by lowly Lecce.

Inter's victory lifted them ahead of Juventus on goal difference at the top of the table, as they target their first Scudetto since 2010.

The second-leg ties will take place on March 4 and 5.

Fixtures:

Semi-finals, first leg:

Wednesday

Inter Milan v Napoli&nbsp;

Thursday

AC Milan v Juventus&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are set to go head-to-head in Thursday's Italian Cup semi-final, first leg between Juventus and AC Milan at the San Siro.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are set to go head-to-head in Thursday's Italian Cup semi-final, first leg between Juventus and AC Milan at the San Siro. Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo breaks Juventus record, scores for 10th consecutive time Both Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic scored at the weekend in defeats as Juventus fell 2-1 at Hellas Verona, while AC Milan threw away a two-goal lead in a 4-2 defeat by city rivals Inter. "It wasn't the result we wanted," said the 35-year-old Ronaldo despite becoming the first Juventus player to score in 10 successive league games, just one game short of the Serie A record. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has scored 23 goals in all competitions this season. Ibrahimovic, 38, has scored three goals since returning to Milan last month. The Swede headed in the second goal on Sunday after setting up the first, but Inter hit back with four second-half strikes. "I showed that I can still make a difference, even at 38," he said. But Inter striker Romelu Lukaku will be looking to upstage the two other former Manchester United players against Napoli in the other last-four first leg on Wednesday. Gennaro Gattuso's Napoli, despite their current slump, ousted holders Lazio in the quarter-finals. "There's a new king in town," a jubilant Lukaku wrote on Twitter after scoring the fourth goal for Inter in Sunday's derby. "We run this town." The Belgian was replying to Ibrahimovic's pre-derby post saying that "lions don't compare themselves to humans". Juventus coach Maurizio Sarri has reason to be worried by his side's away form, with the defending Serie A champions having lost their last two games on the road. "I hope that someone will help me, it's something we have to resolve," Sarri said after the loss to Verona. "Right now we have a difference in performance between home and away." Juventus are bidding to reclaim the trophy which they held for four seasons until losing to eventual runners-up Atalanta in the quarters last year. Antonio Conte's Inter are the only one of the four semi-finalists to win in Serie A at the weekend, with Napoli crashing to a 3-2 defeat by lowly Lecce. Inter's victory lifted them ahead of Juventus on goal difference at the top of the table, as they target their first Scudetto since 2010. The second-leg ties will take place on March 4 and 5. Fixtures: Semi-finals, first leg: Wednesday Inter Milan v Napoli Thursday AC Milan v Juventus

Ronaldo, Ibrahimovic set for Italian Cup clash

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../ac-milans-old-canon-ibrahimovic-leaves-match- untouched-272633">Zlatan Ibrahimovic</a> scored on his first start since returning to AC Milan as his side earned a 2-0 win away to Cagliari on Saturday to end a three-match winless run in Serie A.

The Swede, who joined the Italian club for a second time on a free transfer in December, swept in a finish on the 64th minute after Rafael Leao's deflected strike broke the deadlock early in the second half.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-lazio-fined-after-fans-racially-insult-balotelli-273162">Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli</a>

Ibrahimovic, who made his second debut for the club off the bench during Monday's 0-0 draw with Sampdoria, has now scored a top-flight senior goal in four different decades.

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God mode celebration 🔛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IZBACK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IZBACK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CagliariMilan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CagliariMilan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SempreMilan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SempreMilan</a> <a href="https://t.co/CqHqF7RvGB">pic.twitter.com/CqHqF7RvGB</a>
— AC Milan (@acmilan) <a href="https://twitter.com/acmilan/status/1216043566344130562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The result elevates Milan to eighth place on 25 points ahead of the rest of the weekend's fixtures, after a run of three games without victory, in which they failed to score a single goal.

Cagliari have now suffered four consecutive league defeats, but remain in sixth place with 29 points.

"It's important for a striker to score; sometimes it goes in, sometimes it doesn't," Ibrahimovic told Sky Sport Italia.

"I feel good, I got a few things wrong at the start of the game, but I need a few matches to get into top form.

"The coach thinks about my age but it's not a problem, my mind is still sharp and the body must follow."

Milan coach Stefano Pioli selected Ibrahimovic alongside Leao in attack as he switched to a 4-4-2 formation, and the 38-year-old came close in the first half when his header was tipped onto the foot of the post by Cagliari goalkeeper Robin Olsen.

The visitors broke through within a minute of the restart when Leao latched onto a long Samu Castillejo pass and saw his low effort loop over Olsen and into the net after taking a big deflection.

Ibrahimovic topped off an impressive performance with a goal midway through the second half, when he directed a low left-footed shot into the bottom corner from 12 yards out.

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😎 Sunday Morning ( late sleep ) mood 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IZBACK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IZBACK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SempreMilan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SempreMilan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SundayMood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SundayMood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CagliariMilan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CagliariMilan</a> <a href="https://t.co/6w3ctLYobL">pic.twitter.com/6w3ctLYobL</a>
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The Swede thought he had a second in the closing stages when he headed home a cross, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored on his first start since returning to AC Milan as his side earned a 2-0 win away to Cagliari on Saturday to end a three-match winless run in Serie A.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored on his first start since returning to AC Milan as his side earned a 2-0 win away to Cagliari on Saturday to end a three-match winless run in Serie A. The Swede, who joined the Italian club for a second time on a free transfer in December, swept in a finish on the 64th minute after Rafael Leao's deflected strike broke the deadlock early in the second half. Also read: Serie A: Lazio fined after fans racially insult Balotelli Ibrahimovic, who made his second debut for the club off the bench during Monday's 0-0 draw with Sampdoria, has now scored a top-flight senior goal in four different decades. God mode celebration 🔛#IZBACK #CagliariMilan #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/CqHqF7RvGB — AC Milan (@acmilan) January 11, 2020 × The result elevates Milan to eighth place on 25 points ahead of the rest of the weekend's fixtures, after a run of three games without victory, in which they failed to score a single goal. Cagliari have now suffered four consecutive league defeats, but remain in sixth place with 29 points. "It's important for a striker to score; sometimes it goes in, sometimes it doesn't," Ibrahimovic told Sky Sport Italia. "I feel good, I got a few things wrong at the start of the game, but I need a few matches to get into top form. "The coach thinks about my age but it's not a problem, my mind is still sharp and the body must follow." Milan coach Stefano Pioli selected Ibrahimovic alongside Leao in attack as he switched to a 4-4-2 formation, and the 38-year-old came close in the first half when his header was tipped onto the foot of the post by Cagliari goalkeeper Robin Olsen. The visitors broke through within a minute of the restart when Leao latched onto a long Samu Castillejo pass and saw his low effort loop over Olsen and into the net after taking a big deflection. Ibrahimovic topped off an impressive performance with a goal midway through the second half, when he directed a low left-footed shot into the bottom corner from 12 yards out. 😎 Sunday Morning ( late sleep ) mood 😎#IZBACK #SempreMilan #SundayMood #CagliariMilan pic.twitter.com/6w3ctLYobL — AC Milan (@acmilan) January 12, 2020 × The Swede thought he had a second in the closing stages when he headed home a cross, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Serie A: Zlatan Ibrahimovic winner lifts AC Milan gloom with victory at Cagliari

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ibrahimovic-statue-vandalised-again-272452">Zlatan Ibrahimovic</a>'s return failed to inspire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-reports-270530">AC Milan</a> as the fallen giants of Italian&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Sampdoria in Serie A on Monday, failing to score for the third league game in a row.

The 38-year-old Swede, who helped Milan win their last major title - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-players-to-watch-in-serie-a-245166">Serie A</a> in 2011 - before leaving the following year, was brought on to a rousing reception from the San Siro crowd in the 55th minute.

But Milan could still not find a way past their opponents, who are hovering just above the relegation zone, and the match ended amid the familiar sound of jeers from their supporters.

Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atalanta-fight-back-to-draw-with-manchester-city-260410">Atalanta</a>, who handed Milan a 5-0 thrashing in their previous game, repeated the scoreline at home to Parma as they closed the gap on fourth-placed AS Roma to one point.

Milan were left 12th in the Serie A standings, below Verona on goal difference.

"We played nearly all of the match in their half of the pitch but we lacked quality and, without that, it's difficult to win," said Milan coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-talking-points-in-european-football-this-weekend-257356#pioli-sees-positives-for-milan-257352">Stefano Pioli</a>. "We kept getting into their penalty area but didn't make the right choices."

He said that Ibrahimovic, who has signed a six-month contract, made a positive impact.

"He brought character but the team are not used to having someone with that physical presence in the area and did not provide enough crosses."

It could have been worse for Milan as 16th-placed Sampdoria missed several good chances in the second half.

Manolo Gabbiadini was denied by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma following a mistake by Ismael Bennacer and had an even better chance after pouncing on a poor Davide Calabria pass, but fired over the top of the goal.

"It was almost a perfect performance, we were just missing a goal," said Sampdoria coach Claudio Ranieri. "The team expressed themselves well, I am satisfied."

Atalanta had no such scoring trouble as they took their tally to 48 goals in 18 games - exactly three times Milan's total.

Alejandro Gomez fired them ahead with a long-range effort, Remo Freuler completed a one-two with Gomez for the second and a half-volley from Robin Gosens made it 3-0 before halftime.

Josip Ilicic volleyed the fourth on the hour and weaved his way through the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/flying-cristiano-ronaldo-fires-juventus-top-as-buffon-equals-maldinis-serie-a-record-269078">Parma</a> defence to complete the rout 11 minutes later.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's return failed to inspire AC Milan as the fallen giants of Italian soccer were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Sampdoria in Serie A on Monday, failing to score for the third league game in a row.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's return failed to inspire AC Milan as the fallen giants of Italian soccer were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Sampdoria in Serie A on Monday, failing to score for the third league game in a row. The 38-year-old Swede, who helped Milan win their last major title - Serie A in 2011 - before leaving the following year, was brought on to a rousing reception from the San Siro crowd in the 55th minute. But Milan could still not find a way past their opponents, who are hovering just above the relegation zone, and the match ended amid the familiar sound of jeers from their supporters. Meanwhile, Atalanta, who handed Milan a 5-0 thrashing in their previous game, repeated the scoreline at home to Parma as they closed the gap on fourth-placed AS Roma to one point. Milan were left 12th in the Serie A standings, below Verona on goal difference. "We played nearly all of the match in their half of the pitch but we lacked quality and, without that, it's difficult to win," said Milan coach Stefano Pioli. "We kept getting into their penalty area but didn't make the right choices." He said that Ibrahimovic, who has signed a six-month contract, made a positive impact. "He brought character but the team are not used to having someone with that physical presence in the area and did not provide enough crosses." It could have been worse for Milan as 16th-placed Sampdoria missed several good chances in the second half. Manolo Gabbiadini was denied by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma following a mistake by Ismael Bennacer and had an even better chance after pouncing on a poor Davide Calabria pass, but fired over the top of the goal. "It was almost a perfect performance, we were just missing a goal," said Sampdoria coach Claudio Ranieri. "The team expressed themselves well, I am satisfied." Atalanta had no such scoring trouble as they took their tally to 48 goals in 18 games - exactly three times Milan's total. Alejandro Gomez fired them ahead with a long-range effort, Remo Freuler completed a one-two with Gomez for the second and a half-volley from Robin Gosens made it 3-0 before halftime. Josip Ilicic volleyed the fourth on the hour and weaved his way through the Parma defence to complete the rout 11 minutes later.

AC Milan's old canon Ibrahimovic leaves match untouched

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-reports-270530">return to AC Milan</a> and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

The second-most successful club in Italy behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a> in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening.

Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a>. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock.

That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not.

It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US&nbsp;has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes.

Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy.

His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-looking-forward-to-fifth-season-with-manchester-city-269875">Pep Guardiola</a>, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby.

The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league.

With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic's decision to return to AC Milan and Italy for what may prove to be the final chapter of his storied career will provide a fascinating twist in the tale of a Serie A season that has been anything but rewarding for the "Rossoneri" so far. The second-most successful club in Italy behind Juventus in terms of league titles, Milan are parked in an undignified 10th spot in the standings as the announcement of the Swedish goal-scorers return was made on Friday evening. Fans will be looking forward to getting reacquainted with a talismanic striker that scored 42 goals in 61 games and winning a league title and an Italian Super Cup before leaving in 2012 to join Paris St Germain. However, he is now seven years older with a lot more miles on the clock. That said, his 31 goals in 31 games last season with LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer would suggest that his power and precision are still there, even if his pace is not. It could also be argued that playing with players earning far, far less than him in the US has taught the 38-year-old to both manage his extremely high expectations and to take more responsibility for his team's fortunes. Few believed that Ibrahimovic's period in the MLS - a growing league, but still a relative backwater in global terms - would be the final chapter in a career that has featured goals, glory and no little controversy. His ability to rile everyone from rival fans to Pep Guardiola, his coach at Barcelona, is legendary, and a statue of him in his home town of Malmo has been defaced recently after he acquired an ownership stake in Stockholm rivals Hammmarby. The contract with Milan runs to the end of the current season with an option for another year, and though a lucrative move to China or the Middle East cannot be ruled out, this may be the last time he signs for a big club in a top league. With a thin squad that is 21 points behind leaders and bitter city rivals Inter Milan, a Hollywood ending to Milan's season is highly unlikely. However, the drama of Ibrahimovic's return will make Serie A required watching as his career enters its final act.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns to Italy as final chapter looms

Swedish football god&nbsp;Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has reached agreement to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/see-you-soon-in-italy-ibrahimovic-fuels-talk-of-serie-a-return-266184">join AC Milan</a> on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported.&nbsp;

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ac-milan-offer-ibrahimovic-six-month-deal-reports-263650">AC Milan</a> are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atalanta-fight-back-to-draw-with-manchester-city-260410">Atalanta</a> last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table.

The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6.

It is hoped that&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room.

Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta.&nbsp;

"We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-players-to-watch-in-serie-a-245166">Serie A</a> title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday. Ibrahimovic has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported. Ibrahimovic will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello. AC Milan are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against Atalanta last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table. The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6. It is hoped that Ibrahimovic will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room. Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta. "We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Football: Ibrahimovic set for AC Milan return - Reports

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/napoli-sack-coach-ancelotti-after-reaching-champions-league-last-16-267631">Carlo&nbsp;Ancelotti</a>&nbsp;to take up the role at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Merseyside club</a>, the Italian said on Monday.

Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Chelsea</a> in England, left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Napoli</a> this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">Everton</a>, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-to-compete-manchester-united-in-league-cup-semi-finals-derby-269097">Duncan Ferguson</a>, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday.

"The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me."

Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Real Madrid</a>, outlined his long-term plan to get&nbsp;Everton&nbsp;playing&nbsp;football&nbsp;that would delight the club's supporters.

"We want to try and&nbsp;play&nbsp;attractive&nbsp;football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League.

"I have my idea of this team and squad.&nbsp;I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters.

"They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus.&nbsp;It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly."

Ancelotti&nbsp;confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the&nbsp;players, saying he had done the same at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">Paris St Germain</a> with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane.

"Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant,"&nbsp;Ancelotti&nbsp;said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the&nbsp;players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me.

"Duncan has done a great job, the&nbsp;players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal."

Everton&nbsp;host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a> on Thursday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday.

Everton's ambition to be among the Premier League's elite is what convinced new manager Carlo Ancelotti to take up the role at the Merseyside club, the Italian said on Monday. Ancelotti, one of Europe's most successful coaches who also managed Chelsea in England, left Napoli this month and replaced Portuguese Marco Silva who was sacked after a 5-2 loss to local rivals Liverpool left them in the relegation zone. Everton, now 15th after finding a measure of stability under interim boss Duncan Ferguson, submitted a planning application for their proposed new 52,000-seater Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Monday. "The club wants to be competitive in the Premier League, for me this is enough," Ancelotti told reporters. "The fact the club wants to build a new stadium. That means the ambition of the club is very high. This is what attracted me." Ancelotti, who has won titles with European heavyweights such as AC Milan and Real Madrid, outlined his long-term plan to get Everton playing football that would delight the club's supporters. "We want to try and play attractive football," he added. "I see how the supporters drive the team forward, this is good. The long-term objective is to be competitive in the Premier League. "I have my idea of this team and squad. I want to try my best to help the team to be better and to help the club to be competitive and to give happiness to supporters. "They've had a lot of time without winning so we have to be passionate with a clear focus. It'll not be overnight but we have to be patient. I'm sure we're going to improve quickly." Ancelotti confirmed Ferguson would stay on in his coaching staff because he was familiar with the players, saying he had done the same at Paris St Germain with Claude Makelele and Real Madrid with Zinedine Zidane. "Duncan will be on my staff and my assistant," Ancelotti said. "This is important, Duncan knows really well the characteristics of the players, the atmosphere at the training ground. It'll be really helpful for me. "Duncan has done a great job, the players showed a great spirit (in the weekend's draw) against Arsenal." Everton host Burnley on Thursday.

We want to try and play attractive football: Carlo Ancelotti on Everton

Sweden star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-says-mls-chief-260667">Zlatan Ibrahimovic</a> has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola.

The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed.

Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> football by just a point to city rivals Inter.

They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro.

Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-dybala-sinks-milan-as-angry-ronaldo-substituted-261314">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday.

Sweden star Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been offered a six-month deal to come to the aid of struggling former Italian giants AC Milan, according to reports in Italy on Thursday. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last week following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. Gazzetta dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported that the former seven-time European champions have now made contact with the player's agent Mino Raiola. The US-owned club want the former Swedish international for six months and are prepared to pay him six million euros ($6.6 million) if he remains for 18 months in total, Gazzetta claimed. Milan finished fifth last season, missing out on a return to Champions League football by just a point to city rivals Inter. They have had a poor start to this campaign and are 14th after 12 games before they host last year's runners-up Napoli on Saturday in the San Siro. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

AC Milan offer Ibrahimovic six-month deal - Reports

Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-cristiano-ronaldo-hits-late-juventus-winner-as-napoli-rage-at-potato-peeling-referees-258933">Cristiano Ronaldo </a>was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision.

Ronaldo's replacement Dybala scored in the 77th minute with a goal the Portuguese would have been proud of. After a quick exchange of passes, the Argentine twisted past Alessio Romagnoli and beat Gianluigi Donnarumma with a right-foot shot.

Ronaldo was taken off in the 55th minute, his earliest substitution since he joined Juve at the start of last season and the first time he has been replaced twice in succession.

Despite producing a lacklustre display, Ronaldo gave coach Maurizio Sarri a dirty look, muttered something under his breath and walked straight down the tunnel.

Ronaldo also looked unhappy after being taken off during Wednesday's Champions League match at Lokomotiv Moscow, although Sarri said it was to avoid risking injury as the 34-year-old had complained of knee and thigh problems.

Gazzetta Dello Sport said Ronaldo left the stadium before the final whistle but Sarri denied there was a rift with the five-times World Player of the Year.

"There is no problem with Cristiano, and I thank him because he has played while not in perfect condition," he told reporters.

"The important thing is that he makes himself available. He gets angry when he is taken off but that is part of the game.

"It (his condition) is affecting his performances and he is not at his best at the moment. All players who are trying to give their best will have to be annoyed for at least five minutes when they are substituted."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Juventus</a>, chasing a ninth straight Serie A title and unbeaten in all competitions under Sarri, who took over before the season started, moved to 32 points, a point ahead of Inter Milan who went top after a 2-1 home win over Verona on Saturday.

Milan's problems continued as they were left down in 14th place on 13 points after their ninth successive away defeat to Juve in Serie A.

But they gave an improved performance and had the better chances in the first half.

Misfiring striker Krzysztof Piatek headed wide from an unmarked position and Lucas Paqueta's looping header forced Wojciech Szczesny into a difficult save.

Hakan Calhanoglu also tested Szczesny in the second half with a free kick before Dybala's moment of brilliance settled the match. The Argentine nearly struck again in stoppage time but was denied by Donnarumma.

Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision.

Juventus stayed top of Serie A with a 1-0 win over AC Milan thanks to Paulo Dybala's fine strike on Sunday after Cristiano Ronaldo was substituted for the second game in a row and walked straight down the tunnel, clearly unhappy at the decision. Ronaldo's replacement Dybala scored in the 77th minute with a goal the Portuguese would have been proud of. After a quick exchange of passes, the Argentine twisted past Alessio Romagnoli and beat Gianluigi Donnarumma with a right-foot shot. Ronaldo was taken off in the 55th minute, his earliest substitution since he joined Juve at the start of last season and the first time he has been replaced twice in succession. Despite producing a lacklustre display, Ronaldo gave coach Maurizio Sarri a dirty look, muttered something under his breath and walked straight down the tunnel. Ronaldo also looked unhappy after being taken off during Wednesday's Champions League match at Lokomotiv Moscow, although Sarri said it was to avoid risking injury as the 34-year-old had complained of knee and thigh problems. Gazzetta Dello Sport said Ronaldo left the stadium before the final whistle but Sarri denied there was a rift with the five-times World Player of the Year. "There is no problem with Cristiano, and I thank him because he has played while not in perfect condition," he told reporters. "The important thing is that he makes himself available. He gets angry when he is taken off but that is part of the game. "It (his condition) is affecting his performances and he is not at his best at the moment. All players who are trying to give their best will have to be annoyed for at least five minutes when they are substituted." Juventus, chasing a ninth straight Serie A title and unbeaten in all competitions under Sarri, who took over before the season started, moved to 32 points, a point ahead of Inter Milan who went top after a 2-1 home win over Verona on Saturday. Milan's problems continued as they were left down in 14th place on 13 points after their ninth successive away defeat to Juve in Serie A. But they gave an improved performance and had the better chances in the first half. Misfiring striker Krzysztof Piatek headed wide from an unmarked position and Lucas Paqueta's looping header forced Wojciech Szczesny into a difficult save. Hakan Calhanoglu also tested Szczesny in the second half with a free kick before Dybala's moment of brilliance settled the match. The Argentine nearly struck again in stoppage time but was denied by Donnarumma.

Serie A: Juventus' Dybala sinks Milan as angry Ronaldo substituted

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to rejoin Italian side AC Milan after his successful stint at LA Galaxy, Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has said.

The 38-year-old Swedish striker has spent the past 18 months in MLS, but his contract with Galaxy expires at the end of the year, and he has been linked with a host of European clubs.

Ibrahimovic played for Milan between 2010 and 2012, scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances, and Garber said he was on his way back to Serie A.

"Zlatan is such an interesting guy," he told ESPN. "He keeps my hands full and my inbox full, but he's a thrill-a-minute.

"He is a 38-year-old guy who is being recruited by AC Milan, one of the top clubs in the world."

Ibrahimovic was named in the MLS Best XI in 2018 and 2019 after netting 53 goals in the competition.

His season with Galaxy ended after they suffered a 5-3 defeat by local rivals Los Angeles Football Club in the MLS Cup Western Conference semi-finals last month.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to rejoin Italian side AC Milan after his successful stint at LA Galaxy, Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has said. The 38-year-old Swedish striker has spent the past 18 months in MLS, but his contract with Galaxy expires at the end of the year, and he has been linked with a host of European clubs.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is set to rejoin Italian side AC Milan after his successful stint at LA Galaxy, Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has said. The 38-year-old Swedish striker has spent the past 18 months in MLS, but his contract with Galaxy expires at the end of the year, and he has been linked with a host of European clubs. Ibrahimovic played for Milan between 2010 and 2012, scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances, and Garber said he was on his way back to Serie A. "Zlatan is such an interesting guy," he told ESPN. "He keeps my hands full and my inbox full, but he's a thrill-a-minute. "He is a 38-year-old guy who is being recruited by AC Milan, one of the top clubs in the world." Ibrahimovic was named in the MLS Best XI in 2018 and 2019 after netting 53 goals in the competition. His season with Galaxy ended after they suffered a 5-3 defeat by local rivals Los Angeles Football Club in the MLS Cup Western Conference semi-finals last month.

Football: Ibrahimovic set for AC Milan return, says MLS chief

Serie A strugglers Brescia named Italian 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Grosso as their new coach on Tuesday.

The club confirmed in a statement on their website that the 41-year-old would replace Eugenio Corini, who led Brescia out of Serie B last season but was sacked on Sunday after only 10 games of the present campaign following a 2-1 defeat at Verona.

Grosso, who has previously coached Bari and Verona, is best known for scoring a dramatic goal deep into extra-time as Italy beat hosts Germany 2-0 in the 2006 World Cup semi-finals.

He also converted the winning kick as Italy beat France on penalties in the final following a 1-1 draw.

Brescia, who are second-bottom in the 20-team table with seven points from 10 games, are the fifth Serie A club to change coach this season following Sampdoria, Genoa, AC Milan and Udinese.

Serie A strugglers Brescia named Italian 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Grosso as their new coach on Tuesday. The club confirmed in a statement on their website that the 41-year-old would replace Eugenio Corini, who led Brescia out of Serie B last season but was sacked on Sunday after only 10 games of the present campaign following a 2-1 defeat at Verona.

Serie A strugglers Brescia named Italian 2006 World Cup winner Fabio Grosso as their new coach on Tuesday. The club confirmed in a statement on their website that the 41-year-old would replace Eugenio Corini, who led Brescia out of Serie B last season but was sacked on Sunday after only 10 games of the present campaign following a 2-1 defeat at Verona. Grosso, who has previously coached Bari and Verona, is best known for scoring a dramatic goal deep into extra-time as Italy beat hosts Germany 2-0 in the 2006 World Cup semi-finals. He also converted the winning kick as Italy beat France on penalties in the final following a 1-1 draw. Brescia, who are second-bottom in the 20-team table with seven points from 10 games, are the fifth Serie A club to change coach this season following Sampdoria, Genoa, AC Milan and Udinese.

Football: Italian World Cup winner Grosso to coach struggling Brescia

Five talking points in European football this weekend

AC Milan are set to sack coach Marco Giampaolo after a dreadful start to the season, according to multiple reports in Italy on Tuesday.

The former European giants are 13th in Serie A -- three points above the relegation zone.

Giampaolo, 52, replaced Gennaro Gattuso during the summer, but the former Sampdoria boss has suffered four defeats in his first seven games, including a 2-0 loss to city rivals Inter.

Milan went on to lose their next two matches against Torino and Fiorentina before last weekend's 2-1 victory at Genoa.

Former Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti is the 18-time Italian champions' first choice to replace Giampaolo, according to Gazzetto Dello Sport and Sky Sport Italia.

However, the 60-year-old has not been able to agree severance terms with Inter, who he guided back to the Champions League the past two seasons, and remains under contract until 2021, despite being replaced by Antonio Conte.

Former Inter and Fiorentina coach Stefano Pioli is now reported to be the favourite to take over the former seven-time European champions, who won their last title in Serie A in 2011.

Pioli previously coached Inter during the 2016-17 campaign and has reportedly been in the running to take over at struggling Genoa.

Former Roma and Marseille manager Rudi Garcia has also been touted among the possible candidates.

AC Milan finished fifth last season but lost their Europa League berth after accepting a European ban for breaching financial fair play rules.

AC Milan are set to sack coach Marco Giampaolo after a dreadful start to the season, according to multiple reports in Italy on Tuesday. The former European giants are 13th in Serie A -- three points above the relegation zone.

AC Milan are set to sack coach Marco Giampaolo after a dreadful start to the season, according to multiple reports in Italy on Tuesday. The former European giants are 13th in Serie A -- three points above the relegation zone. Giampaolo, 52, replaced Gennaro Gattuso during the summer, but the former Sampdoria boss has suffered four defeats in his first seven games, including a 2-0 loss to city rivals Inter. Milan went on to lose their next two matches against Torino and Fiorentina before last weekend's 2-1 victory at Genoa. Former Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti is the 18-time Italian champions' first choice to replace Giampaolo, according to Gazzetto Dello Sport and Sky Sport Italia. However, the 60-year-old has not been able to agree severance terms with Inter, who he guided back to the Champions League the past two seasons, and remains under contract until 2021, despite being replaced by Antonio Conte. Former Inter and Fiorentina coach Stefano Pioli is now reported to be the favourite to take over the former seven-time European champions, who won their last title in Serie A in 2011. Pioli previously coached Inter during the 2016-17 campaign and has reportedly been in the running to take over at struggling Genoa. Former Roma and Marseille manager Rudi Garcia has also been touted among the possible candidates. AC Milan finished fifth last season but lost their Europa League berth after accepting a European ban for breaching financial fair play rules.

AC Milan set to sack coach  Marco Giampaolo: Report

Manchester United beat AC Milan 5-4 on penalties after their International Champions Cup match in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium ended 2-2 in regulation time on Saturday.

United opened the scoring in their final pre-season match through Marcus Rashford, who took advantage of Milan's high backline to make a run into space to collect Nemanja Matic's long ball.

The 21-year-old cut back into the box and dribbled past two defenders before firing a right-footed shot past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma into the bottom corner, with the help of a deflection off Milan captain Alessio Romagnoli's heel.

However, their lead lasted only 12 minutes when Milan's high press allowed the Italian side to win the ball back in the final third when United tried to play out from the back.

Matic lost possession a few yards outside his own box and the ball eventually fell to midfielder Suso, who took a shot from range to beat a diving David de Gea and make it 1-1.

The former Liverpool player then created the second goal when he whipped in a cross from a short corner, with Samu Castillejo's header deflected into the net off United centre back Victor Lindelof.

Substitute Jesse Lingard scored the equaliser, when set up by a through ball from Anthony Martial, with a low shot from an acute angle to send the game into a penalty shootout.

It was all square at 4-4 in the shootout when De Gea saved Daniel Maldini's effort, after which new recruit Daniel James scored the decisive spot kick to give United the win.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side begin their new Premier League campaign next Sunday when they host Chelsea.

Manchester United beat AC Milan 5-4 on penalties after their International Champions Cup match in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium ended 2-2 in regulation time on Saturday.

Manchester United beat AC Milan 5-4 on penalties after their International Champions Cup match in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium ended 2-2 in regulation time on Saturday. United opened the scoring in their final pre-season match through Marcus Rashford, who took advantage of Milan's high backline to make a run into space to collect Nemanja Matic's long ball. The 21-year-old cut back into the box and dribbled past two defenders before firing a right-footed shot past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma into the bottom corner, with the help of a deflection off Milan captain Alessio Romagnoli's heel. However, their lead lasted only 12 minutes when Milan's high press allowed the Italian side to win the ball back in the final third when United tried to play out from the back. Matic lost possession a few yards outside his own box and the ball eventually fell to midfielder Suso, who took a shot from range to beat a diving David de Gea and make it 1-1. The former Liverpool player then created the second goal when he whipped in a cross from a short corner, with Samu Castillejo's header deflected into the net off United centre back Victor Lindelof. Substitute Jesse Lingard scored the equaliser, when set up by a through ball from Anthony Martial, with a low shot from an acute angle to send the game into a penalty shootout. It was all square at 4-4 in the shootout when De Gea saved Daniel Maldini's effort, after which new recruit Daniel James scored the decisive spot kick to give United the win. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side begin their new Premier League campaign next Sunday when they host Chelsea.

Manchester United beat AC Milan on penalties in Cardiff

AC Milan have been banned from the 2019-20 Europa League competition for breaching UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, sport's highest court CAS said on Friday.

The seven-times European champions finished fifth in Serie A last season to qualify for Europe's second-tier competition.

Milan's ban means AS Roma, who came sixth in the standings, move up to the Europa League group stage while their place in the qualifying rounds is taken by seventh-placed Torino.

"CAS has issued a consent award embodying the agreement reached between AC Milan and UEFA concerning breaches of the FFP regulations by the Italian club," the Court of Arbitration for Sport said in a statement.

"AC Milan is excluded from participating in the UEFA club competitions of the sporting season 2019/2020 as a consequence of the breach of its FFP break-even obligations during the 2015/2016/2017 and the 2016/2017/2018 monitoring periods."

Under UEFA regulations any club spending more than the revenue they generate may face sanctions, including a possible ban from the competitions run by the European governing body.

In April, Milan were reported by UEFA investigators over an alleged new breach of the break-even rule in its most recent monitoring period and the case was passed to its financial adjudicators.

UEFA said the referral was not connected to a previous case against Milan which saw the club banned and reprieved on appeal.

Milan were given a one-season suspension from European football in June last year after UEFA ruled that the club had not complied with FFP rules for the previous monitoring period.

Milan appealed to CAS which overturned the ban the following month, accepting the club's argument that its finances had improved after an ownership change.

Milan were then able to take part in last season's Europa League, which they exited in the group stage, while UEFA was ordered by CAS to find an alternative punishment.

In its revised decision in December, UEFA gave Milan until June 2021 to comply with rules or face a one-season ban from European competition.

AC Milan have been banned from the 2019-20 Europa League competition for breaching UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, sport's highest court CAS said on Friday.

AC Milan have been banned from the 2019-20 Europa League competition for breaching UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules, sport's highest court CAS said on Friday. The seven-times European champions finished fifth in Serie A last season to qualify for Europe's second-tier competition. Milan's ban means AS Roma, who came sixth in the standings, move up to the Europa League group stage while their place in the qualifying rounds is taken by seventh-placed Torino. "CAS has issued a consent award embodying the agreement reached between AC Milan and UEFA concerning breaches of the FFP regulations by the Italian club," the Court of Arbitration for Sport said in a statement. "AC Milan is excluded from participating in the UEFA club competitions of the sporting season 2019/2020 as a consequence of the breach of its FFP break-even obligations during the 2015/2016/2017 and the 2016/2017/2018 monitoring periods." Under UEFA regulations any club spending more than the revenue they generate may face sanctions, including a possible ban from the competitions run by the European governing body. In April, Milan were reported by UEFA investigators over an alleged new breach of the break-even rule in its most recent monitoring period and the case was passed to its financial adjudicators. UEFA said the referral was not connected to a previous case against Milan which saw the club banned and reprieved on appeal. Milan were given a one-season suspension from European football in June last year after UEFA ruled that the club had not complied with FFP rules for the previous monitoring period. Milan appealed to CAS which overturned the ban the following month, accepting the club's argument that its finances had improved after an ownership change. Milan were then able to take part in last season's Europa League, which they exited in the group stage, while UEFA was ordered by CAS to find an alternative punishment. In its revised decision in December, UEFA gave Milan until June 2021 to comply with rules or face a one-season ban from European competition.

AC Milan banned from 2019-20 Europa League for Financial Fair Play breach: CAS

Former European Cup&nbsp;winners&nbsp;AC&nbsp;Milan&nbsp;endured a bittersweet 3-2&nbsp;win&nbsp;at&nbsp;SPAL&nbsp;in the last round of the Serie A,&nbsp;finishing the campaign&nbsp;outside the&nbsp;top&nbsp;four&nbsp;after their nearest rivals both booked their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-arsenal-top-four-hopes-all-but-over-after-brighton-draw-216202">Champions League</a> berths on Sunday.

The result left&nbsp;Milan&nbsp;fifth on 68 points, one behind third-placed Atalanta and&nbsp;fourth-placed city rivals Inter, meaning they will have to be content with the Europa League next season.

Atalanta came from behind to beat Sassuolo 3-1 at home while Inter eked&nbsp;out&nbsp;a 2-1&nbsp;win&nbsp;against relegated Empoli at the San Siro.

"I am happy with the development of my players, I think many of them have improved a lot," said&nbsp;AC&nbsp;Milan&nbsp;coach Gennaro Gattuso, whose future with the club is uncertain. "We can still get better although it will not be easy to improve this season's 68 points.

"The biggest regret is that in the last few months we have not played well and we have lost too many points, but all in all our work has been good," he added. "There are regrets but also pride. I've congratulated the squad for what they have given me this season."

Hakan Calhanoglu fired&nbsp;Milan&nbsp;ahead in the 18th minute with a first-time shot from the edge of the penalty area after Franck Kessie played the ball into the Turkey midfielder's strike from the left flank.

Kessie doubled&nbsp;Milan's lead shortly afterwards when poor&nbsp;SPAL&nbsp;defending gave the Ivorian playmaker time and space to tee himself up for a left-footed shot into the roof of the net from close range.

The home side pulled one back in the 28th minute after left-back Francesco Vicari found the&nbsp;top&nbsp;left the corner with a glancing header and levelled early in the second half, Mohamed Fares meeting Alessandro Murgia's cross with a thumping header.

Kessie converted a 66th-minute penalty after Krzysztof Piatek was hauled down to rekindle&nbsp;Milan's hopes of earning Champions League football next season but their joy was short-lived as news of the other results came through.

Former European Cup winners AC Milan endured a bittersweet 3-2 win at SPAL in the last round of the Serie A, finishing the campaign outside the top four after their nearest rivals both booked their Champions League berths on Sunday.

Former European Cup winners AC Milan endured a bittersweet 3-2 win at SPAL in the last round of the Serie A, finishing the campaign outside the top four after their nearest rivals both booked their Champions League berths on Sunday. The result left Milan fifth on 68 points, one behind third-placed Atalanta and fourth-placed city rivals Inter, meaning they will have to be content with the Europa League next season. Atalanta came from behind to beat Sassuolo 3-1 at home while Inter eked out a 2-1 win against relegated Empoli at the San Siro. "I am happy with the development of my players, I think many of them have improved a lot," said AC Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso, whose future with the club is uncertain. "We can still get better although it will not be easy to improve this season's 68 points. "The biggest regret is that in the last few months we have not played well and we have lost too many points, but all in all our work has been good," he added. "There are regrets but also pride. I've congratulated the squad for what they have given me this season." Hakan Calhanoglu fired Milan ahead in the 18th minute with a first-time shot from the edge of the penalty area after Franck Kessie played the ball into the Turkey midfielder's strike from the left flank. Kessie doubled Milan's lead shortly afterwards when poor SPAL defending gave the Ivorian playmaker time and space to tee himself up for a left-footed shot into the roof of the net from close range. The home side pulled one back in the 28th minute after left-back Francesco Vicari found the top left the corner with a glancing header and levelled early in the second half, Mohamed Fares meeting Alessandro Murgia's cross with a thumping header. Kessie converted a 66th-minute penalty after Krzysztof Piatek was hauled down to rekindle Milan's hopes of earning Champions League football next season but their joy was short-lived as news of the other results came through.

AC Milan miss out on top-four finish despite SPAL win

Serie A's disciplinary tribunal says will not take any action against two AC Milan players who paraded an opponent's shirt in front of their fans "like a scalp" following the 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday.

Tiemoue Bakayoko exchanged his jersey with Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi at the end of the game but then, with teammate Franck Kessie, waved it triumphantly in front of Milan fans in the Curva Sud in a gesture which generated widespread criticism.

The incident happened as scuffles broke out among players following the match which was a key battle in the race for Champions League qualification.

Gabriele Gravina, the head of the Italian soccer federation (FIGC) was among those who had called for disciplinary action.

"When Acerbi handed over his to the Milan players and shook their hands, he proved he wanted to close any controversy. Exhibiting the same shirt almost like a scalp in front of the crowd was an ugly reaction that we ought to prevent happening again," he said on Monday.

However, the tribunal said on Tuesday that "nothing was reported by the match delegate" and added that it was not a case where evidence from television images could be used. "Therefore, the tribunal is not competent to decide on what happened," it said in a statement.

Kessie, however, was among six players fined 10,000 euros ($11,299) for their part in the trouble.

The others were Andrea Bertolacci and Mateo Musacchio of Milan and Lazio trio Lucas Leiva, Luiz Felipe and Patricio Gabarron.

Bakayoko later phoned Acerbi to apologise and the Lazio defender appeared to accept, when he tweeted: "Enough controversy, we'll see each other on the pitch."

Serie A's disciplinary tribunal says will not take any action against two AC Milan players who paraded an opponent's shirt in front of their fans "like a scalp" following the 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday.

Serie A's disciplinary tribunal says will not take any action against two AC Milan players who paraded an opponent's shirt in front of their fans "like a scalp" following the 1-0 win over Lazio on Saturday. Tiemoue Bakayoko exchanged his jersey with Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi at the end of the game but then, with teammate Franck Kessie, waved it triumphantly in front of Milan fans in the Curva Sud in a gesture which generated widespread criticism. The incident happened as scuffles broke out among players following the match which was a key battle in the race for Champions League qualification. Gabriele Gravina, the head of the Italian soccer federation (FIGC) was among those who had called for disciplinary action. "When Acerbi handed over his to the Milan players and shook their hands, he proved he wanted to close any controversy. Exhibiting the same shirt almost like a scalp in front of the crowd was an ugly reaction that we ought to prevent happening again," he said on Monday. However, the tribunal said on Tuesday that "nothing was reported by the match delegate" and added that it was not a case where evidence from television images could be used. "Therefore, the tribunal is not competent to decide on what happened," it said in a statement. Kessie, however, was among six players fined 10,000 euros ($11,299) for their part in the trouble. The others were Andrea Bertolacci and Mateo Musacchio of Milan and Lazio trio Lucas Leiva, Luiz Felipe and Patricio Gabarron. Bakayoko later phoned Acerbi to apologise and the Lazio defender appeared to accept, when he tweeted: "Enough controversy, we'll see each other on the pitch."

Six fined after Milan-Lazio brawl, no action in shirt-swapping row

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season.&nbsp;

Second-placed Napoli's shock defeat at Empoli on Wednesday has left the Turin side a massive 18 points clear, meaning it is time to get the calculators out almost two months before the end of the season.

In one of the most lop-sided championships in history, Juventus will clinch the title if they beat AC Milan at home on Saturday and then Napoli lose at home on Sunday to Genoa, who ended Juve's hopes of an unbeaten league season three weeks ago.

That combination would leave Massimiliano Allegri's side 21 points clear with seven games each to play and a better head-to-head record over Napoli.

They would also remain on course to break their own Serie A record of 102 points set in 2013-14, the last season before Antonio Conte left and was replaced by current coach Allegri.

Helped by the signing of five times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus have been utterly dominant this season, winning 26 of their 30 matches, drawing three and losing one.

They have the best attack and defence with 62 goals for and 19 conceded although they have been ruthless rather than sparkling.

Twelve of their wins have been by one-goal margins, nine by two goals and five by three goals and they have only once scored more than three goals in a league game.

There have been a handful of impressive comebacks and dramatic wins but mostly it has been a case of getting the job done as efficiently as possible and leaving enough energy for their main aim, which is winning the Champions League.

Ronaldo will miss the Milan game with a thigh injury and is doubtful for the Champions League quarter-final first leg away to Ajax Amsterdam on Wednesday.

However, Allegri said after the 2-0 win to Cagliari on Tuesday that their injury crisis was easing with Mario Mandzukic available and Leonardo Spinazzola, Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala all close to returning.

The game will be a severe test for Gennaro Gattuso's AC Milan who are fourth, the lowest of the Champions League slots, but have followed a run of five league wins in a row by taking only one point out of their last three matches.

"The strength that we’ve had for three or four months was missing," said Gattuso after Tuesday's 1-1 draw at home to lowly Udinese.

"We gave the feeling of fragility. We must remain calm. We know that we’re going through a tough spell and we must get out of it."

Gattuso said his team were going through one of those phases where the ball feels heavier.

"When you win five matches but then face some difficulties, the ball starts to weigh heavily," he said. "Things that happen that should be prevented and this is the moment we’re in"

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season.

Juventus will have a first shot at clinching an eighth successive Serie A title at the weekend although they will need help from the only team to have beaten them in the league this season. Second-placed Napoli's shock defeat at Empoli on Wednesday has left the Turin side a massive 18 points clear, meaning it is time to get the calculators out almost two months before the end of the season. In one of the most lop-sided championships in history, Juventus will clinch the title if they beat AC Milan at home on Saturday and then Napoli lose at home on Sunday to Genoa, who ended Juve's hopes of an unbeaten league season three weeks ago. That combination would leave Massimiliano Allegri's side 21 points clear with seven games each to play and a better head-to-head record over Napoli. They would also remain on course to break their own Serie A record of 102 points set in 2013-14, the last season before Antonio Conte left and was replaced by current coach Allegri. Helped by the signing of five times World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo, Juventus have been utterly dominant this season, winning 26 of their 30 matches, drawing three and losing one. They have the best attack and defence with 62 goals for and 19 conceded although they have been ruthless rather than sparkling. Twelve of their wins have been by one-goal margins, nine by two goals and five by three goals and they have only once scored more than three goals in a league game. There have been a handful of impressive comebacks and dramatic wins but mostly it has been a case of getting the job done as efficiently as possible and leaving enough energy for their main aim, which is winning the Champions League. Ronaldo will miss the Milan game with a thigh injury and is doubtful for the Champions League quarter-final first leg away to Ajax Amsterdam on Wednesday. However, Allegri said after the 2-0 win to Cagliari on Tuesday that their injury crisis was easing with Mario Mandzukic available and Leonardo Spinazzola, Douglas Costa and Paulo Dybala all close to returning. The game will be a severe test for Gennaro Gattuso's AC Milan who are fourth, the lowest of the Champions League slots, but have followed a run of five league wins in a row by taking only one point out of their last three matches. "The strength that we’ve had for three or four months was missing," said Gattuso after Tuesday's 1-1 draw at home to lowly Udinese. "We gave the feeling of fragility. We must remain calm. We know that we’re going through a tough spell and we must get out of it." Gattuso said his team were going through one of those phases where the ball feels heavier. "When you win five matches but then face some difficulties, the ball starts to weigh heavily," he said. "Things that happen that should be prevented and this is the moment we’re in"

Juventus could clinch Serie A title with seven games left

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri.

Roma began the game in fifth place with a chance to move within a point of fourth-placed AC Milan, who lost 1-0 at Sampdoria on Saturday, but instead dropped to sixth after Atalanta won 3-1 at Parma to overtake them.

Arkadiusz Milik put Napoli ahead after two minutes, cleverly controlling Simone Verdi's chipped pass with his heel and then swiveling to fire past Robin Olsen.

Having dominated the first half, with another Milik goal chalked off for offside, Napoli were pegged back in stoppage time when Patrik Schick was fouled by goalkeeper Alex Meret and Diego Perotti slotted home the penalty.

Yet Roma were left reeling by two quick goals after the break as they slumped to a second defeat in Ranieri's three games in charge.

Jose Callejon's low cross slipped under Olsen's hand to leave Dries Mertens with a tap-in at the far post in the 50th minute, then Fabian Ruiz burst down the left and set up Verdi for the third five minutes later.

Substitute Amin Younes added the fourth, scoring at the second attempt after Roma failed to clear a corner.

Second-placed Napoli stayed 15 points behind runaway leaders Juventus, who beat Empoli 1-0 on Saturday.

Milan, in the lowest of the Champions League slots, have 51 points, followed by Atalanta (48) and Roma (47).

Ranieri returned for a second stint at the club to replace Eusebio Di Francesco, fired after a 3-0 derby defeat to Lazio was followed by Champions League elimination at the hands of Porto.

"It's difficult, but we are working hard and trying to do our best," said Ranieri. "The others run faster and harder and get to the ball first. Do I regret taking the job? Never."

Atalanta fell behind to an early Gervinho goal at Parma before Mario Pasalic levelled midway through the first half and two goals in the last 15 minutes from striker Duvan Zapata gave them the points.

The Colombian took his season's tally to 19, level with Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and two behind leading scorer Fabio Quagliarella of Sampdoria.

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri.

Napoli ripped AS Roma's defence to shreds as they handed the hosts an embarrassing 4-1 defeat at the Stadio Olimpico in Serie A on Sunday and piled on the problems for recently-appointed coach Claudio Ranieri. Roma began the game in fifth place with a chance to move within a point of fourth-placed AC Milan, who lost 1-0 at Sampdoria on Saturday, but instead dropped to sixth after Atalanta won 3-1 at Parma to overtake them. Arkadiusz Milik put Napoli ahead after two minutes, cleverly controlling Simone Verdi's chipped pass with his heel and then swiveling to fire past Robin Olsen. Having dominated the first half, with another Milik goal chalked off for offside, Napoli were pegged back in stoppage time when Patrik Schick was fouled by goalkeeper Alex Meret and Diego Perotti slotted home the penalty. Yet Roma were left reeling by two quick goals after the break as they slumped to a second defeat in Ranieri's three games in charge. Jose Callejon's low cross slipped under Olsen's hand to leave Dries Mertens with a tap-in at the far post in the 50th minute, then Fabian Ruiz burst down the left and set up Verdi for the third five minutes later. Substitute Amin Younes added the fourth, scoring at the second attempt after Roma failed to clear a corner. Second-placed Napoli stayed 15 points behind runaway leaders Juventus, who beat Empoli 1-0 on Saturday. Milan, in the lowest of the Champions League slots, have 51 points, followed by Atalanta (48) and Roma (47). Ranieri returned for a second stint at the club to replace Eusebio Di Francesco, fired after a 3-0 derby defeat to Lazio was followed by Champions League elimination at the hands of Porto. "It's difficult, but we are working hard and trying to do our best," said Ranieri. "The others run faster and harder and get to the ball first. Do I regret taking the job? Never." Atalanta fell behind to an early Gervinho goal at Parma before Mario Pasalic levelled midway through the first half and two goals in the last 15 minutes from striker Duvan Zapata gave them the points. The Colombian took his season's tally to 19, level with Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo and two behind leading scorer Fabio Quagliarella of Sampdoria.

Claudio Ranieri's problems mount as Napoli thump Roma 4-1

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said.

Pato, who has also enjoyed time at Corinthians, Chelsea and Villareal, signed a three-year contract with Sao Paulo. It will be his second spell at the club.

Pato, 29, broke into the Internacional side as a teenager in 2006 and helped them to the Club World Cup the same year when they beat Barcelona 1-0.

His pace, maturity and cool head in front of goal won him a transfer to AC Milan, where he spent five years.

However, he has failed to make a lasting mark at any of the six clubs he graced since and fallen out of favour at international level, with his last cap coming in 2013.

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said.

Former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato joined Sao Paulo on Wednesday, returning to Brazil after a two-year stint with Chinese side Tianjin Tianhai, the Brazilian club said. Pato, who has also enjoyed time at Corinthians, Chelsea and Villareal, signed a three-year contract with Sao Paulo. It will be his second spell at the club. Pato, 29, broke into the Internacional side as a teenager in 2006 and helped them to the Club World Cup the same year when they beat Barcelona 1-0. His pace, maturity and cool head in front of goal won him a transfer to AC Milan, where he spent five years. However, he has failed to make a lasting mark at any of the six clubs he graced since and fallen out of favour at international level, with his last cap coming in 2013.

Brazil's Pato returns to Sao Paulo after China stint

Manchester United have added pre-season matches in Singapore, China and Wales, including a clash against Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the club announced on Wednesday.

United will take on Inter Milan at the National Stadium Singapore on July 20, before travelling to Shanghai to face Spurs at the Hongkou Stadium on July 25.

The final match of the tour is scheduled against AC Milan at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Aug. 3.

These matches will be in addition to the two previously announced matches against Perth Glory and Leeds United on July 13 and July 17 respectively.

"These games, and the tour overall, will not only assist in our pre-season preparations, but also provide entertaining football and an opportunity to interact with our loyal fans in Australasia and Asia," United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said in a statement.

"This will be our third visit to Singapore and our fifteenth pre-season visit to China and we're excited to be returning to both countries to play against top-class opposition there."

At least four other Premier League clubs will visit China for their pre-season preparations with Manchester City, Newcastle United, West Ham United and Wolverhampton

Wanderers taking part in the Premier League Asia Trophy in Nanjing and Shanghai.

United's last match in China was a defeat by Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai but that pre-season trip was remembered more for the clash with local rivals Manchester City which was cancelled due to torrential rain in Beijing.

Manchester United have added pre-season matches in Singapore, China and Wales, including a clash against Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the club announced on Wednesday.

Manchester United have added pre-season matches in Singapore, China and Wales, including a clash against Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, the club announced on Wednesday. United will take on Inter Milan at the National Stadium Singapore on July 20, before travelling to Shanghai to face Spurs at the Hongkou Stadium on July 25. The final match of the tour is scheduled against AC Milan at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Aug. 3. These matches will be in addition to the two previously announced matches against Perth Glory and Leeds United on July 13 and July 17 respectively. "These games, and the tour overall, will not only assist in our pre-season preparations, but also provide entertaining football and an opportunity to interact with our loyal fans in Australasia and Asia," United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said in a statement. "This will be our third visit to Singapore and our fifteenth pre-season visit to China and we're excited to be returning to both countries to play against top-class opposition there." At least four other Premier League clubs will visit China for their pre-season preparations with Manchester City, Newcastle United, West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers taking part in the Premier League Asia Trophy in Nanjing and Shanghai. United's last match in China was a defeat by Borussia Dortmund in Shanghai but that pre-season trip was remembered more for the clash with local rivals Manchester City which was cancelled due to torrential rain in Beijing.

Manchester United to face Tottenham in Shanghai pre-season clash

Inter Milan moved above city rivals AC Milan into third place in Serie A with an exhilarating 3-2 derby victory at San Siro that ended a five-match winning run for Gennaro Gattuso's hosts.

Matias Vecino’s goal gave the Nerazzurri a deserved halftime lead before Stefan De Vrij and Lautaro Martinez, with a penalty, struck after the break, while goals from Milan's Tiemoue Bakayoko and Mateo Musacchio kept the Rossoneri in the game.

Inter coach Luciano Spalletti was facing increasing pressure after his side were knocked out of the Europa League in the last 16 by Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

However, he was left delighted as his team stretched their unbeaten Milan derby run to six games, their best spell since 1999, and moved to 53 points, two clear of fourth-placed Milan.

“We need to say well done to Lautaro for the penalty, well done to (Ivan) Perisic for the runs, well done to everyone for all you did. Bravo, bravo to everyone in that dressing room," Spalletti told Italian broadcasters.

“I thought Milan put in a very strong performance and Gennaro Gattuso ought to be proud of his players. When it’s this open and exciting, anyone can win or lose.

"The city of Milan earned this Derby della Madonnina and were rewarded with a wonderful night of football. We both honoured the derby.”

Inter went in front within three minutes when Martinez rose at the back post to head Ivan Perisic's cross into the six-yard box, where Vecino was on hand to smash home from close range.

They doubled their lead in the 51st with De Vrij's superb header beyond keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma but Milan took six minutes to pull a goal back as Bakayoko headed his first goal since joining on loan from Chelsea in the close season.

Milan substitute Sami Castillejo then tripped winger Matteo Politano and Martinez converted the penalty in the 67th.

But Inter were pegged back four minutes later when Musacchio scored from the rebound after keeper Samir Handanovic parried a goal-bound deflection from team mate Danilo D’Ambrosio.

There was controversy in the final few minutes when Milan substitute Andrea Conti got a straight red card for a tackle on Martinez, only for the referee to downgrade his punishment to a booking after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.

Spalletti was furious and got sent off for his protests, but his side held on thanks to a late goal-line block by D’Ambrosio from Patrick Cutrone’s goal-bound effort.

Inter Milan moved above city rivals AC Milan into third place in Serie A with an exhilarating 3-2 derby victory at San Siro that ended a five-match winning run for Gennaro Gattuso's hosts.

Inter Milan moved above city rivals AC Milan into third place in Serie A with an exhilarating 3-2 derby victory at San Siro that ended a five-match winning run for Gennaro Gattuso's hosts. Matias Vecino’s goal gave the Nerazzurri a deserved halftime lead before Stefan De Vrij and Lautaro Martinez, with a penalty, struck after the break, while goals from Milan's Tiemoue Bakayoko and Mateo Musacchio kept the Rossoneri in the game. Inter coach Luciano Spalletti was facing increasing pressure after his side were knocked out of the Europa League in the last 16 by Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday. However, he was left delighted as his team stretched their unbeaten Milan derby run to six games, their best spell since 1999, and moved to 53 points, two clear of fourth-placed Milan. “We need to say well done to Lautaro for the penalty, well done to (Ivan) Perisic for the runs, well done to everyone for all you did. Bravo, bravo to everyone in that dressing room," Spalletti told Italian broadcasters. “I thought Milan put in a very strong performance and Gennaro Gattuso ought to be proud of his players. When it’s this open and exciting, anyone can win or lose. "The city of Milan earned this Derby della Madonnina and were rewarded with a wonderful night of football. We both honoured the derby.” Inter went in front within three minutes when Martinez rose at the back post to head Ivan Perisic's cross into the six-yard box, where Vecino was on hand to smash home from close range. They doubled their lead in the 51st with De Vrij's superb header beyond keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma but Milan took six minutes to pull a goal back as Bakayoko headed his first goal since joining on loan from Chelsea in the close season. Milan substitute Sami Castillejo then tripped winger Matteo Politano and Martinez converted the penalty in the 67th. But Inter were pegged back four minutes later when Musacchio scored from the rebound after keeper Samir Handanovic parried a goal-bound deflection from team mate Danilo D’Ambrosio. There was controversy in the final few minutes when Milan substitute Andrea Conti got a straight red card for a tackle on Martinez, only for the referee to downgrade his punishment to a booking after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. Spalletti was furious and got sent off for his protests, but his side held on thanks to a late goal-line block by D’Ambrosio from Patrick Cutrone’s goal-bound effort.

Inter edge Milan in five-goal derby thriller to go third

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Gonzalo+Higuain">Gonzalo Higuain</a> on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media.

The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games.

Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16.

Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions.

Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term.

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign striker Gonzalo Higuain on loan from Juventus until the end of the season, according to reports in the British media. The Argentina international joined the Italian champions in 2016 but was loaned to AC Milan at the start of the current season where he has scored eight goals in 22 appearances this term. Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is keen to strengthen his options in attack after dropping misfiring Spain forward Alvaro Morata to the bench and being forced to deploy playmaker Eden Hazard as a 'false nine' in recent games. Sarri worked with Higuain when he was manager at Napoli and it was under the Italian that the striker scored 36 goals to equal the Serie A record for most goals in a season in 2015-16. Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that the loan deal for Higuain could be extended for another 12 months subject to certain conditions. Higuain's arrival could see Chelsea sanction a loan move for Morata, who is in talks with boyhood club Atletico Madrid about a return to Spain's La Liga.

Chelsea agree Gonzalo Higuain loan from Juventus: Reports

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday.

The trophy, which was being contested outside of Italy for the 10th time, is traditionally a clash between the Italian league and cup winners, but Milan qualified as Coppa Italia runners-up after Juve clinched the domestic double last season.

Striker Gonzalo Higuain was dropped to the Milan bench amid media rumours of an imminent move to Chelsea, with some pre-match reports suggesting he was struggling with a fever.

Yet it was Juve’s Portuguese talisman Ronaldo who again stole the show with a winning goal that sealed the Turin club’s eighth Supercoppa win to make them the competition’s most successful team with one more trophy than Milan.

“It was a very difficult match, it’s very warm and hard to play in these conditions,” Ronaldo told Italian broadcasters.

“It was my intention to start 2019 with a trophy, I have my first title with Juve and I am very happy," he added.

“It is only the start, we take it one step at a time. We’ve got this cup, now we must keep working hard to achieve the next trophy.

“Serie A is always Juve’s principal objective, we are top of the table, but it’s a very long competition and it’s going to be tough, so we need to keep working.”

There were few clear chances in a balanced first half, Ronaldo going closest with an acrobatic volley that bounced off the ground and skimmed the crossbar before Milan winger Hakan Calhanoglu’s snapshot drew a smart save from Wojciech Szczesny.

Patrick Cutrone was inches away from putting Milan in front when his powerful shot cannoned back off the crossbar just three minutes after the break.

But it was Juve who struck first as Ronaldo latched onto Miralem Pjanic’s clipped through ball to head past Gianluigi Donnarumma with just over an hour played.

Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso introduced Higuain for the final 20 minutes as he looked for a route back into the game, but his side’s challenge petered out after Franck Kessie was sent off for a stamp on Emre Can following a VAR review.

There were furious protests from Milan late on when their appeals for a penalty were ignored after Can challenged Andrea Conti inside the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s second-half goal secured a record eighth Italian Super Cup victory for Juventus as they beat AC Milan 1-0 in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah on Wednesday. The trophy, which was being contested outside of Italy for the 10th time, is traditionally a clash between the Italian league and cup winners, but Milan qualified as Coppa Italia runners-up after Juve clinched the domestic double last season. Striker Gonzalo Higuain was dropped to the Milan bench amid media rumours of an imminent move to Chelsea, with some pre-match reports suggesting he was struggling with a fever. Yet it was Juve’s Portuguese talisman Ronaldo who again stole the show with a winning goal that sealed the Turin club’s eighth Supercoppa win to make them the competition’s most successful team with one more trophy than Milan. “It was a very difficult match, it’s very warm and hard to play in these conditions,” Ronaldo told Italian broadcasters. “It was my intention to start 2019 with a trophy, I have my first title with Juve and I am very happy," he added. “It is only the start, we take it one step at a time. We’ve got this cup, now we must keep working hard to achieve the next trophy. “Serie A is always Juve’s principal objective, we are top of the table, but it’s a very long competition and it’s going to be tough, so we need to keep working.” There were few clear chances in a balanced first half, Ronaldo going closest with an acrobatic volley that bounced off the ground and skimmed the crossbar before Milan winger Hakan Calhanoglu’s snapshot drew a smart save from Wojciech Szczesny. Patrick Cutrone was inches away from putting Milan in front when his powerful shot cannoned back off the crossbar just three minutes after the break. But it was Juve who struck first as Ronaldo latched onto Miralem Pjanic’s clipped through ball to head past Gianluigi Donnarumma with just over an hour played. Milan coach Gennaro Gattuso introduced Higuain for the final 20 minutes as he looked for a route back into the game, but his side’s challenge petered out after Franck Kessie was sent off for a stamp on Emre Can following a VAR review. There were furious protests from Milan late on when their appeals for a penalty were ignored after Can challenged Andrea Conti inside the box.

Cristiano Ronaldo secures Italian Super Cup glory for Juventus

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea.

Higuain joined Milan on a season-long loan from Juventus in July with an option to make the deal permanent, but he has struggled to settle at the San Siro, scoring eight goals in all competitions.

The 31-year-old again drew a blank in AC Milan's 2-0 Italian Cup win over Sampdoria on Saturday as substitute Patrick Cutrone netted a double in extra time.

"When a player makes up his mind it becomes hard to convince them otherwise," said Gattuso of Higuain.

"I have a relationship with him that features great honesty, we say things to one another's face.

"At the moment, he's our player and we're holding on tightly to him. I don't know what will happen."

The Argentina international reportedly wants to join his former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea.

Milan paid 18 million euros ($20.75 million) to sign him on loan, with a clause to make the deal permanent for a further 36 million euros.

Higuain had his most successful season under Sarri, breaking the Serie A goalscoring record with 36 goals in the 2015/16 campaign.

"I've talked to him a great deal, but it's hard to give advice, because the career of a player only lasts 13-14 years," continued Gattuso.&nbsp;

"It's his mind, not mine. The most important thing is to talk as men, look each other in the eyes and speak the truth.

"I still don't understand what Higuain's unhappy about, because I see a happy lad, involved in the locker room.

"We'll see what happens. If it was up to me, I'd keep him at my house and feed him my dinner."

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea.

Gonzalo Higuain has made up his mind to leave AC Milan, coach Gennaro Gattuso said on Saturday amid speculation linking the striker to Premier League side Chelsea. Higuain joined Milan on a season-long loan from Juventus in July with an option to make the deal permanent, but he has struggled to settle at the San Siro, scoring eight goals in all competitions. The 31-year-old again drew a blank in AC Milan's 2-0 Italian Cup win over Sampdoria on Saturday as substitute Patrick Cutrone netted a double in extra time. "When a player makes up his mind it becomes hard to convince them otherwise," said Gattuso of Higuain. "I have a relationship with him that features great honesty, we say things to one another's face. "At the moment, he's our player and we're holding on tightly to him. I don't know what will happen." The Argentina international reportedly wants to join his former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri at Chelsea. Milan paid 18 million euros ($20.75 million) to sign him on loan, with a clause to make the deal permanent for a further 36 million euros. Higuain had his most successful season under Sarri, breaking the Serie A goalscoring record with 36 goals in the 2015/16 campaign. "I've talked to him a great deal, but it's hard to give advice, because the career of a player only lasts 13-14 years," continued Gattuso. "It's his mind, not mine. The most important thing is to talk as men, look each other in the eyes and speak the truth. "I still don't understand what Higuain's unhappy about, because I see a happy lad, involved in the locker room. "We'll see what happens. If it was up to me, I'd keep him at my house and feed him my dinner."

Gonzalo Higuain determined to leave, says AC Milan coach Gattuso

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