In what may come as heartbreaking news for Barcelona fans, the club is planning to hand Lionel Messi's iconic no. 10 jersey to a new signing who might arrive at Camp Nou during the January transfer window, according to a report in&nbsp;El Nacional.

18-year-old Vitor Roque, who is currently plying his trade in Serie A with Athletico Paranaense might be wearing the jersey as Barca look to bring him to the club, after signing him earlier this year.&nbsp;

The teenager signed on the dotted lines for Barca for a reported fee of $40 million and agreed to come to the club in 2024. While most had anticipated that Roque would arrive after the summer window, reports claim that Barca's Director of Football, Deco has been working behind the scenes to materialise the deal as soon as possible. Deco&nbsp;is set to meet Roque in Brazil and convey the club's intention to register him in January.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Roque not the first to wear the jersey&nbsp;</h2>

Although Roque is not the first player to wear the no. 10 jersey after Messi, it is still a big deal for Barca fans who continue to demand that the seven-time Ballon d'Or trophy winner's jersey be kept retired until he comes back for one last chance.&nbsp;

After Messi's departure from Barcelona, the jersey number&nbsp;was handed to Ansu Fati. The talented winger, however, could not live up to the expectations of the jersey, primarily due to injuries and remained sidelined for the major part of his stay at the Catalan club. Earlier this year, the Spaniard was shipped to Brighton and Hove Albion on a loan deal to play under Roberto De Zerbi to get back to full fitness and hone his skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Messi left his boyhood club in 2021&nbsp;after the Barcelona board could not work out a deal to manage his salary as well as keep the account books healthy. After the breakdown in talks, Messi signed up for Paris Saint-Germain where he had a rather tumultuous stay.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-difficult-to-score-in-italy-messi-questioned-teammate-after-ronaldos-move-to-juventus-642255">Also read |&nbsp;'Is it difficult to score in Italy?': Messi questioned teammate after Ronaldo's move to Juventus</a>

The Parisians never warmed up to Messi and the latter was forced to move to Inter Miami earlier this year. Since the move to the US, Messi appears to be enjoying his football once again. However, rumours keep doing the rounds that Messi might return to Barcelona one day to finish off his footballing chapter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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In what may come as heartbreaking news for Barcelona fans, the club is planning to hand Lionel Messi's iconic no. 10 jersey to a new signing who might arrive at Camp Nou during the January transfer window, according to a report in El Nacional.

In what may come as heartbreaking news for Barcelona fans, the club is planning to hand Lionel Messi's iconic no. 10 jersey to a new signing who might arrive at Camp Nou during the January transfer window, according to a report in El Nacional. 18-year-old Vitor Roque, who is currently plying his trade in Serie A with Athletico Paranaense might be wearing the jersey as Barca look to bring him to the club, after signing him earlier this year. The teenager signed on the dotted lines for Barca for a reported fee of $40 million and agreed to come to the club in 2024. While most had anticipated that Roque would arrive after the summer window, reports claim that Barca's Director of Football, Deco has been working behind the scenes to materialise the deal as soon as possible. Deco is set to meet Roque in Brazil and convey the club's intention to register him in January. Roque not the first to wear the jersey Although Roque is not the first player to wear the no. 10 jersey after Messi, it is still a big deal for Barca fans who continue to demand that the seven-time Ballon d'Or trophy winner's jersey be kept retired until he comes back for one last chance. After Messi's departure from Barcelona, the jersey number was handed to Ansu Fati. The talented winger, however, could not live up to the expectations of the jersey, primarily due to injuries and remained sidelined for the major part of his stay at the Catalan club. Earlier this year, the Spaniard was shipped to Brighton and Hove Albion on a loan deal to play under Roberto De Zerbi to get back to full fitness and hone his skills. Messi left his boyhood club in 2021 after the Barcelona board could not work out a deal to manage his salary as well as keep the account books healthy. After the breakdown in talks, Messi signed up for Paris Saint-Germain where he had a rather tumultuous stay. Also read | 'Is it difficult to score in Italy?': Messi questioned teammate after Ronaldo's move to Juventus The Parisians never warmed up to Messi and the latter was forced to move to Inter Miami earlier this year. Since the move to the US, Messi appears to be enjoying his football once again. However, rumours keep doing the rounds that Messi might return to Barcelona one day to finish off his footballing chapter. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Barcelona set to hand over Lionel Messi's iconic no. 10 jersey to a Brazilian player

In what can&nbsp;only be described as a hilarious move, suitable for the occasion, Italian club AC Milan have added French striker Olivier Giroud to their goalkeeper&nbsp;list, following his stunning performance at the death against Genoa in a Seria A match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and informed about the cheeky change made by AC Milan in their roster.&nbsp;

"AC Milan have included Olivier Giroud in the goalkeepers list on their website after yesterday night’s save.&nbsp;Reminder: he’s the all-time record goalscorer of the French national team," posted Romano.&nbsp;

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🔴⚫️🇫🇷 AC Milan have included Olivier Giroud in the goalkeepers list on their website after yesterday night’s save. 
 
ℹ️🧤 Reminder: he’s the all time record goalscorer of the French national team. <a href="https://t.co/wcgTzSMoKO">pic.twitter.com/wcgTzSMoKO</a>
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After Milan's designated goalkeeper Mike Maignan received a red card in the 98th minute with the side defending a slender 1-0 lead, the coaching staff was forced to make the changes. With all five substitutions used up, one outfield player had to take place between the sticks and replace their Yashin Trophy nominee goalkeeper.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saudi-arabia-hosting-2034-fifa-world-cup-basically-a-done-deal-report-644075">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia hosting 2034 FIFA World Cup 'basically a done deal': Report</a>

Giroud put his hand up, even though there were 15 minutes of injury time added to the clock. He wore Maignan's kit and gloves and got inside the goalpost. With&nbsp;Genoa sustaining wave after wave of attacks, Giroud had to be at his belligerent best to avoid conceding at the death.&nbsp;

The biggest moment, however, came when Genoa players were through on goal and Giroud came rushing out from his goal line and parried the ball away, before jumping on it and carefully nestling it inside his arms.&nbsp;

<h2>I made a great save: Giroud&nbsp;</h2>

Following the heroics with the gloves, Giroud, in a post-match interview said he had never experienced such a feeling.&nbsp;

"I've never experienced that in my career and I'm proud of the whole team. We fought like lions," Giroud told Sky Italia.&nbsp;

"The final stop? I made a great save at the end. Almost a goal. Calabria massacred my arm but it's okay (laughs). I am going to frame this shirt!"

Apart from being the record goalscorer for his country, Giroud is also a World Cup winner, having won the trophy in 2018. He has won the Champions League with Chelsea and the Scudetto with Milan as well.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

In what can only be described as a hilarious move, suitable for the occasion, Italian club AC Milan have added French striker Olivier Giroud to their goalkeeper list, following his stunning performance at the death against Genoa in a Seria A match.

In what can only be described as a hilarious move, suitable for the occasion, Italian club AC Milan have added French striker Olivier Giroud to their goalkeeper list, following his stunning performance at the death against Genoa in a Seria A match. Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and informed about the cheeky change made by AC Milan in their roster. "AC Milan have included Olivier Giroud in the goalkeepers list on their website after yesterday night’s save. Reminder: he’s the all-time record goalscorer of the French national team," posted Romano. 🔴⚫️🇫🇷 AC Milan have included Olivier Giroud in the goalkeepers list on their website after yesterday night’s save. ℹ️🧤 Reminder: he’s the all time record goalscorer of the French national team. pic.twitter.com/wcgTzSMoKO — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 8, 2023 × After Milan's designated goalkeeper Mike Maignan received a red card in the 98th minute with the side defending a slender 1-0 lead, the coaching staff was forced to make the changes. With all five substitutions used up, one outfield player had to take place between the sticks and replace their Yashin Trophy nominee goalkeeper. Also read | Saudi Arabia hosting 2034 FIFA World Cup 'basically a done deal': Report Giroud put his hand up, even though there were 15 minutes of injury time added to the clock. He wore Maignan's kit and gloves and got inside the goalpost. With Genoa sustaining wave after wave of attacks, Giroud had to be at his belligerent best to avoid conceding at the death. The biggest moment, however, came when Genoa players were through on goal and Giroud came rushing out from his goal line and parried the ball away, before jumping on it and carefully nestling it inside his arms. I made a great save: Giroud Following the heroics with the gloves, Giroud, in a post-match interview said he had never experienced such a feeling. "I've never experienced that in my career and I'm proud of the whole team. We fought like lions," Giroud told Sky Italia. "The final stop? I made a great save at the end. Almost a goal. Calabria massacred my arm but it's okay (laughs). I am going to frame this shirt!" Apart from being the record goalscorer for his country, Giroud is also a World Cup winner, having won the trophy in 2018. He has won the Champions League with Chelsea and the Scudetto with Milan as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hilarious! AC Milan add Olivier Giroud to goalkeeper list after heroic Serie A performance

Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku might be in&nbsp;for a rough ride as his team Roma faces Inter Milan in Seria A later this month. The club's most die-hard supporters belonging to the Curva Nord group have released a statement saying they are distributing 50,000 whistles so that the striker can "hear all our disgust"&nbsp;when he returns to San Siro.&nbsp;

Lukaku arrived at San Siro on a loan deal from Chelsea last year. However,&nbsp;earlier this summer, he flirted with rivals Juventus before eventually departing for Roma on another loan deal. This enraged fans as Lukaku publically said he wanted to stay with the Nerazzurri on a permanent basis.&nbsp;

Now, the Inter fans have made it clear that he will have to prepare himself for a hostile reception on his return to Milan.&nbsp;

“October 29 is a date we should circle in the calendar so we can be ready to let him hear all our disgust that we feel towards someone who turned his back on us in the most shameful way,” read a statement from the fan group.&nbsp;

“A character who proved himself to be a small man because before being a champion, you must be a man and know how to keep your word."

“We defended you with swords drawn and you repaid us by turning your back. Before the game against Roma, the Curva Nord will hand out 50,000 whistles to be used at every touch of the ball from he who betrayed our jersey. Let us all show how someone who proved himself unworthy to wear this shirt ought to be treated," the statement added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-transfers-romelu-lukaku-completes-loan-switch-to-as-roma-reunites-with-jose-mourinho-for-third-time-630881">Also read |&nbsp;Football Transfers: Romelu Lukaku completes loan switch to AS Roma, reunites with Jose Mourinho for third time</a>

<h2>Lukaku's disappointing Milan story&nbsp;</h2>

Lukaku had a disappointing end to his Inter story as he failed to come in clutch during his side's Champions League final against Manchester City, earlier this year. Just like his performance for Belgium in the World Cup, Lukaku failed to capitalise on high xG chances which resulted in the Italian club missing out on the 'big ears' trophy.&nbsp;

During his stint with the Milan-based club, Lukaku only managed to bag 14 goals in 37 Seria A matches. At Roma, he has reunited with Jose Mourinho for the third time, having first shared the dressing room at Chelsea in 2013.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-1986-wc-winning-coach-dav-whatmore-picks-game-changers-for-wc-642233">Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC</a>

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A short two-week spell saw Mourinho manage Lukaku at Chelsea where he played in the 2013 UEFA Super Cup final against Bayern Munich. The star-studded Belgian missed the decisive penalty as Chelsea finished runners-up. It reported that both Lukaku and Mourinho had a rift which saw him loaned out to Everton.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku might be in for a rough ride as his team Roma faces Inter Milan in Seria A later this month. The club's most die-hard supporters belonging to the Curva Nord group have released a statement saying they are distributing 50,000 whistles so that the striker can "hear all our disgust" when he returns to San Siro.

Belgian forward Romelu Lukaku might be in for a rough ride as his team Roma faces Inter Milan in Seria A later this month. The club's most die-hard supporters belonging to the Curva Nord group have released a statement saying they are distributing 50,000 whistles so that the striker can "hear all our disgust" when he returns to San Siro. Lukaku arrived at San Siro on a loan deal from Chelsea last year. However, earlier this summer, he flirted with rivals Juventus before eventually departing for Roma on another loan deal. This enraged fans as Lukaku publically said he wanted to stay with the Nerazzurri on a permanent basis. Now, the Inter fans have made it clear that he will have to prepare himself for a hostile reception on his return to Milan. “October 29 is a date we should circle in the calendar so we can be ready to let him hear all our disgust that we feel towards someone who turned his back on us in the most shameful way,” read a statement from the fan group. “A character who proved himself to be a small man because before being a champion, you must be a man and know how to keep your word." “We defended you with swords drawn and you repaid us by turning your back. Before the game against Roma, the Curva Nord will hand out 50,000 whistles to be used at every touch of the ball from he who betrayed our jersey. Let us all show how someone who proved himself unworthy to wear this shirt ought to be treated," the statement added. Also read | Football Transfers: Romelu Lukaku completes loan switch to AS Roma, reunites with Jose Mourinho for third time Lukaku's disappointing Milan story Lukaku had a disappointing end to his Inter story as he failed to come in clutch during his side's Champions League final against Manchester City, earlier this year. Just like his performance for Belgium in the World Cup, Lukaku failed to capitalise on high xG chances which resulted in the Italian club missing out on the 'big ears' trophy. During his stint with the Milan-based club, Lukaku only managed to bag 14 goals in 37 Seria A matches. At Roma, he has reunited with Jose Mourinho for the third time, having first shared the dressing room at Chelsea in 2013. Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC × A short two-week spell saw Mourinho manage Lukaku at Chelsea where he played in the 2013 UEFA Super Cup final against Bayern Munich. The star-studded Belgian missed the decisive penalty as Chelsea finished runners-up. It reported that both Lukaku and Mourinho had a rift which saw him loaned out to Everton. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Why are Inter fans distributing 50,000 whistles ahead of Lukaku's visit to San Siro?

Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in&nbsp;Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018.&nbsp;

Speaking on former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel, Boateng said Messi did not speak much, despite being the captain but showed some interest in understanding the Italian league.&nbsp;

“He [Messi] is the captain but doesn't speak. We spoke one time in the shower because he asked if it's difficult to score in Italy because Ronaldo was there at that time, and he showed the rivalry between them. I told him that it was more difficult that Ronaldo was there, and he scored every game for three years. People forget too easily what he's done there," said Boateng.

<h2>‘It was good while it lasted’</h2>

Notably, Boateng's revelation comes weeks after Ronaldo spoke regarding his rivalry with Messi, stating it was good while it lasted.

"I don't see things like that, the rivalry is gone. It was good, spectators liked it. Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don't have to hate Messi and vice versa. We've done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that's the most important thing," said Ronaldo.&nbsp;

"He's followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe. From what I've seen, he's been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don't see the rivalry like that. We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I'm not saying we're friends, I've never had dinner with him, but we're professional colleagues and we respect each other."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-changed-football-but-rivalry-is-gone-cristiano-ronaldo-opens-up-on-competition-with-lionel-messi-633337">Also read |&nbsp;We changed football but rivalry is gone: Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on competition with Lionel Messi</a>

Notably, Ronaldo scored 101 goals in 134 appearances for the Turin-based club before returning to Manchester United in 2021. It was during this time that Messi also moved on from his boyhood club and ended up at&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. He is now with Inter Miami in MLS while Ronaldo is enjoying his time with Saudi Arabian league team Al-Nassar.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018.

Kevin-Prince Boateng has revealed how Lionel Messi acknowledged his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo. Boateng, who played alongside Messi in Barcelona said the Argentine once asked him if it was tough to score in Seria A - the Italian top-division football league where Ronaldo moved in to play for Juventus in 2018. Speaking on former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel, Boateng said Messi did not speak much, despite being the captain but showed some interest in understanding the Italian league. “He [Messi] is the captain but doesn't speak. We spoke one time in the shower because he asked if it's difficult to score in Italy because Ronaldo was there at that time, and he showed the rivalry between them. I told him that it was more difficult that Ronaldo was there, and he scored every game for three years. People forget too easily what he's done there," said Boateng. ‘It was good while it lasted’ Notably, Boateng's revelation comes weeks after Ronaldo spoke regarding his rivalry with Messi, stating it was good while it lasted. "I don't see things like that, the rivalry is gone. It was good, spectators liked it. Those who like Cristiano Ronaldo don't have to hate Messi and vice versa. We've done well, we have changed the history of football. We are respected all over the world, that's the most important thing," said Ronaldo. "He's followed his path and I have followed mine, regardless of playing outside of Europe. From what I've seen, he's been doing well and so have I. The legacy lives on, but I don't see the rivalry like that. We shared the stage many times, it was 15 years. I'm not saying we're friends, I've never had dinner with him, but we're professional colleagues and we respect each other." Also read | We changed football but rivalry is gone: Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on competition with Lionel Messi Notably, Ronaldo scored 101 goals in 134 appearances for the Turin-based club before returning to Manchester United in 2021. It was during this time that Messi also moved on from his boyhood club and ended up at Paris Saint-Germain as a free agent. He is now with Inter Miami in MLS while Ronaldo is enjoying his time with Saudi Arabian league team Al-Nassar. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Is it difficult to score in Italy?': Messi questioned teammate after Ronaldo's move to Juventus

Lautaro Martinez scored all four goals as Inter Milan thrashed Salernitana 4-0 on Saturday to stay top in Serie A, while AC Milan kept pace with their city rivals after overcoming Lazio.

Inter rebounded from their first loss of the season midweek against Sassuolo thanks to a sensational second-half display from Martinez.

The Argentina striker dinked Marcus Thuram's superb ball over home goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa to break the deadlock just past the hour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-shocked-by-wolves-man-utd-beaten-by-crystal-palace-641336">Premier League: Man City shocked by Wolves, Man Utd beaten by Crystal Palace</a>

Salernitana's Mateusz Legowski had a goal disallowed for offside before Martinez drilled in his second from a cross from Nicolo Barella.

Martinez completed his hat-trick on 85 minutes after from the penalty spot Thuram was bundled to the ground. He added another with a first-time finish from Carlos Augusto's pass.

"I'm happy because I helped the team, it's all that counts. It was important to win after all the criticism aimed at us after our defeat on Wednesday," said Martinez, who tops the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals.

"I'm not thinking about the title for top scorer, I just want to help the team."

Inter are level on 18 points with Milan, who had briefly gone top earlier in the day after they overcame a struggling Lazio 2-0.

Christian Pulisic gave Milan the lead on the hour at the San Siro when he slammed in a bobbling pass from Rafael Leao for his third goal since joining from Chelsea.

Leao was again involved as Milan made sure of the points in the 88th minute, the Portugal winger bursting into the area before cutting the ball back for Noah Okafor to slide home.

"I thought we put a lot of pressure on, it was just a matter of time, we finally opened it up and from there it was a really strong performance," Pulisic told DAZN.

"I haven't been here a long time, there are a lot of new players, but we are really starting to gel well. I am really enjoying my time with the team."

France goalkeeper Mike Maignan returned for Milan after missing the past two games with a thigh injury he sustained in a goalless draw against Newcastle in the Champions League.

Lazio suffered their fourth defeat of the season and dropped to 14th place, with just seven points from as many matches.

<h2>Osimhen on target</h2>

Napoli secured their second victory in four days as Victor Osimhen came off the bench and scored in a 4-0 win at Lecce, bumping the Italian champions up to third.

After a run of three games without a win, Rudi Garcia's side have rediscovered some form heading into next week's Champions League clash at home to Real Madrid.

Centre-back Leo Ostigard headed Napoli ahead early on with his first league goal for the club, but it wasn't until the half-time introduction of Osimhen that the visitors took control of the game.

The Nigerian nodded in a cross from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on 51 minutes before late goals from Gianluca Gaetano and Matteo Politano sealed the rout.

Politano struck from the spot as Osimhen left penalty duties to a team-mate for the second game running after the club posted a video online mocking him for a missed attempt.

After the player's agent threatened legal action this week, Napoli said they never meant to offend Osimhen.

Napoli remain four points adrift of Inter and Milan.

"It was a well-managed match from start to finish, we wanted to hit hard and score in the first 15 minutes," said Garcia.

"I'm happy for Ostigard who is really a player who's constantly thinking about the team."

"We drew lessons from what happened in Genoa (a 2-2 draw on September 16), it's something that really pleases me," added Garcia.

"All our players are getting back to their best level, that's why the team is now finding this consistency."

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Lautaro Martinez scored all four goals as Inter Milan thrashed Salernitana 4-0 on Saturday to stay top in Serie A, while AC Milan kept pace with their city rivals after overcoming Lazio.

Lautaro Martinez scored all four goals as Inter Milan thrashed Salernitana 4-0 on Saturday to stay top in Serie A, while AC Milan kept pace with their city rivals after overcoming Lazio. Inter rebounded from their first loss of the season midweek against Sassuolo thanks to a sensational second-half display from Martinez. The Argentina striker dinked Marcus Thuram's superb ball over home goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa to break the deadlock just past the hour. Also Read: Premier League: Man City shocked by Wolves, Man Utd beaten by Crystal Palace Salernitana's Mateusz Legowski had a goal disallowed for offside before Martinez drilled in his second from a cross from Nicolo Barella. Martinez completed his hat-trick on 85 minutes after from the penalty spot Thuram was bundled to the ground. He added another with a first-time finish from Carlos Augusto's pass. "I'm happy because I helped the team, it's all that counts. It was important to win after all the criticism aimed at us after our defeat on Wednesday," said Martinez, who tops the Serie A scoring charts with nine goals. "I'm not thinking about the title for top scorer, I just want to help the team." Inter are level on 18 points with Milan, who had briefly gone top earlier in the day after they overcame a struggling Lazio 2-0. Christian Pulisic gave Milan the lead on the hour at the San Siro when he slammed in a bobbling pass from Rafael Leao for his third goal since joining from Chelsea. Leao was again involved as Milan made sure of the points in the 88th minute, the Portugal winger bursting into the area before cutting the ball back for Noah Okafor to slide home. "I thought we put a lot of pressure on, it was just a matter of time, we finally opened it up and from there it was a really strong performance," Pulisic told DAZN. "I haven't been here a long time, there are a lot of new players, but we are really starting to gel well. I am really enjoying my time with the team." France goalkeeper Mike Maignan returned for Milan after missing the past two games with a thigh injury he sustained in a goalless draw against Newcastle in the Champions League. Lazio suffered their fourth defeat of the season and dropped to 14th place, with just seven points from as many matches. Osimhen on target Napoli secured their second victory in four days as Victor Osimhen came off the bench and scored in a 4-0 win at Lecce, bumping the Italian champions up to third. After a run of three games without a win, Rudi Garcia's side have rediscovered some form heading into next week's Champions League clash at home to Real Madrid. Centre-back Leo Ostigard headed Napoli ahead early on with his first league goal for the club, but it wasn't until the half-time introduction of Osimhen that the visitors took control of the game. The Nigerian nodded in a cross from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia on 51 minutes before late goals from Gianluca Gaetano and Matteo Politano sealed the rout. Politano struck from the spot as Osimhen left penalty duties to a team-mate for the second game running after the club posted a video online mocking him for a missed attempt. After the player's agent threatened legal action this week, Napoli said they never meant to offend Osimhen. Napoli remain four points adrift of Inter and Milan. "It was a well-managed match from start to finish, we wanted to hit hard and score in the first 15 minutes," said Garcia. "I'm happy for Ostigard who is really a player who's constantly thinking about the team." "We drew lessons from what happened in Genoa (a 2-2 draw on September 16), it's something that really pleases me," added Garcia. "All our players are getting back to their best level, that's why the team is now finding this consistency." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Inter thrash Salernitana to stay on top; AC Milan keep pace with win over Lazio

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment.

"It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qualifiers-marquinhos-earns-brazil-late-win-over-peru-635818">FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru</a>

Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February.

"I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added.

"I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there."

<h2>- 'Holding Juve back' -</h2>

Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem".

He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back".

"I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci.&nbsp;

"I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football."

Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team.

He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship.

Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on".

Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement.

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Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer.

Leonardo Bonucci has confirmed that he is taking legal action against Juventus, claiming that the Serie A club has not told the truth about their treatment of him after he was frozen out and eventually sold over the summer. Veteran defender Bonucci, who has won a host of trophies with club and country over his long career, was shunted aside by Juve in pre-season, missing out on July's tour in the USA and training away from the first team. And the 36-year-old said he had made the "hard decision" to sue the club for which he played over 500 times and won eight league titles for what he considers "humiliating" treatment. "It's a decision that's been a long time coming and is due to the fact that I've read and heard a lot of things that aren't true," said Bonucci in an interview with Mediaset released on Thursday. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Marquinhos earns Brazil late win over Peru Bonucci, who signed for Union Berlin last month, claims he was only told in mid-July that he was no longer in Juve's plans, contrary to the club's version of events in which he was told twice, in October last year and February. "I didn't have any discussion with the club on that date, nor did I with the coach (Massimiliano Allegri), who called me into his office at the end of March... he told me in his way that I should quit at the end of June because I wanted to be a coach so I needed to speed things up," Bonucci added. "I told him that I respected his decision but that I intended to play on until at least the end of the European Championship next year. The conversation ended there." - 'Holding Juve back' - Bonucci claims that he was then told by Juve after their last home match of last season that he would be fifth or sixth choice for the coming campaign, and says his reply was "no problem". He says he then heard nothing from the club until a home visit in from sporting directors Giovanni Manna and Cristiano Giuntoli who told him that his "presence in the dressing room was holding Juve back". "I am simply asserting my rights provided for in (professional football's) collective bargaining agreement... which says players should be put in the condition to train with the team, regardless of any selection decisions, and have the right to acceptable physical preparation for the coming season," said Bonucci. "I wasn't given that... I wasn't given the chance to go out onto the training field with my own teammates, take part in training matches. I felt empty and humiliated, and not put in the condition to do what I love most and that's play football." Bonucci, who says he will donate any proceeds from his legal action to charity, was also left out of Luciano Spalletti's first Italy squad this month, losing his captaincy of the national team. He was Azzurri skipper under former coach Roberto Mancini following the retirement of Giorgio Chiellini last year, and became a national hero in 2021 as a key part of the team which won the last European Championship. Last month Juve denied claims by the head of the player's union, Umberto Calcagno, that Bonucci's "dignity is being trampled on". Juve defended the "legitimacy of its actions towards all registered players who are recognised and are fully guaranteed all the rights" agreed in football's collective bargaining agreement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Leonardo Bonucci to take legal action against former club Juventus over 'humiliating' treatment

Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday.

The UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) opened a formal investigation into Juventus in December, months after the Italian side was among eight clubs that reached a settlement with UEFA for failing to comply with break-even requirements.

In a statement on Friday, European soccer's governing body said it would "impose an additional financial contribution of 20 million euros on the club.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-england-beat-denmark-to-stand-on-verge-of-fifa-world-cup-last-16-620272">Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16</a>

"Of this amount, 10 million euros is conditional and will only be enforced if the club's annual financial statements for the financial years 2023, 2024 and 2025 do not comply with the accounting requirements," UEFA added.

Juventus, who qualified for the Conference League playoff round after finishing seventh in Serie A last term, said they had waived the right to appeal that decision but maintained their innocence.

"We do not share the interpretation that has been given of our defense, and we remain firmly convinced of the legitimacy of our actions and the validity of our arguments.

However, we have decided not to appeal this judgment," Juventus Chairman Gianluca Ferrero said.

Ferrero added that Juventus' decision not to appeal was in line with the policy they employed during a settlement with Italy's soccer federation (FIGC) in May, where they opted to pay a fine of 718,000 euros and not challenge a 10-point penalty.

"As in that case, we prefer to put an end to the period of uncertainty and ensure full visibility and certainty to our internal and external stakeholders about the club's participation in future international competitions," Ferrero said.

"Lodging an appeal, possibly to other levels of judgement, with uncertain outcomes and timing, would increase the uncertainty with respect to our eventual participation in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League."

The Conference League qualifying rounds for the 2023-24 season started earlier this month.

<h2>CHELSEA SETTLEMENT</h2>

UEFA also reached a settlement with Chelsea over the submission of incomplete financial information, related to "historical transactions" between 2012-19 - prior to the London club's acquisition by the Boehly-Clearlake consortium in 2022.

"Following the club's sale in May 2022, the new ownership identified, and proactively reported to UEFA, instances of potentially incomplete financial reporting under the club’s previous ownership," UEFA said.

"Following its assessment, including the applicable statute of limitations, the CFCB First Chamber entered into a settlement agreement with the club which has agreed to pay a financial contribution of 10 million euros to fully resolve the reported matters."

Chelsea, who finished 12th in the Premier League following a chaotic campaign, will not be competing in Europe in 2023-24.

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Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday.

Juventus will not play in Europe next season after being banned over breaches of UEFA's Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play rules, while Premier League side Chelsea will pay 10 million euros for submitting incomplete financial information, Europe's soccer governing body said on Friday. The UEFA Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) opened a formal investigation into Juventus in December, months after the Italian side was among eight clubs that reached a settlement with UEFA for failing to comply with break-even requirements. In a statement on Friday, European soccer's governing body said it would "impose an additional financial contribution of 20 million euros on the club. ALSO READ: Football: England beat Denmark to stand on verge of FIFA World Cup last 16 "Of this amount, 10 million euros is conditional and will only be enforced if the club's annual financial statements for the financial years 2023, 2024 and 2025 do not comply with the accounting requirements," UEFA added. Juventus, who qualified for the Conference League playoff round after finishing seventh in Serie A last term, said they had waived the right to appeal that decision but maintained their innocence. "We do not share the interpretation that has been given of our defense, and we remain firmly convinced of the legitimacy of our actions and the validity of our arguments. However, we have decided not to appeal this judgment," Juventus Chairman Gianluca Ferrero said. Ferrero added that Juventus' decision not to appeal was in line with the policy they employed during a settlement with Italy's soccer federation (FIGC) in May, where they opted to pay a fine of 718,000 euros and not challenge a 10-point penalty. "As in that case, we prefer to put an end to the period of uncertainty and ensure full visibility and certainty to our internal and external stakeholders about the club's participation in future international competitions," Ferrero said. "Lodging an appeal, possibly to other levels of judgement, with uncertain outcomes and timing, would increase the uncertainty with respect to our eventual participation in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League." The Conference League qualifying rounds for the 2023-24 season started earlier this month. CHELSEA SETTLEMENT UEFA also reached a settlement with Chelsea over the submission of incomplete financial information, related to "historical transactions" between 2012-19 - prior to the London club's acquisition by the Boehly-Clearlake consortium in 2022. "Following the club's sale in May 2022, the new ownership identified, and proactively reported to UEFA, instances of potentially incomplete financial reporting under the club’s previous ownership," UEFA said. "Following its assessment, including the applicable statute of limitations, the CFCB First Chamber entered into a settlement agreement with the club which has agreed to pay a financial contribution of 10 million euros to fully resolve the reported matters." Chelsea, who finished 12th in the Premier League following a chaotic campaign, will not be competing in Europe in 2023-24. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Juventus excluded from European competition next season over FFP breach - UEFA

Italy's football federation approved on Friday changes to Serie A's league title and relegation play-offs which were introduced last season.

In a statement, the FIGC confirmed that should two teams finish on the same points at the top of the table the Scudetto would be decided in a one-match play-off.

However the rules now state that instead of the deciding match being played at a neutral venue it would be hosted by whichever team finishes in first place.

In Serie A whoever has the best head-to-head record between teams on the same points takes the higher position, after which come goal difference and goals scored if the teams still cannot be separated.

The showdown could be switched to whichever stadium hosts the Italian Cup final -- in recent years Rome's Stadio Olimpico -- if the Italian authorities decide it necessary on the basis of public order.

The relegation play-off, disputed by the teams which finish either side of the drop zone in 17th and 18th, will be a two-legged affair with the team higher in the table playing the second leg at home.

Last season Spezia were relegated by Verona in a one-off match after ending the regular season just outside the bottom three.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-can-just-text-me-rr-star-replies-to-former-cricketers-commentators-criticising-his-game-613074">'You can just text me': RR star replies to former cricketers, commentators criticising his game</a>

The FIGC also said tiny Lecco would play in Serie B for the first time in half a century after deciding their bureaucratic troubles should not stop the club for registering in the second tier.

Lecco, based on the eastern leg of Lake Como, were promoted last month but don't have a stadium which meets Serie B's regulations so had to find an alternative site.

They had two days to submit documentation for Serie B after beating Foggia in the play-off final and missed the deadline.&nbsp;

But they were given a reprieve by the FIGC after demonstrating that they had approval to use Padova's stadium some 200 kilometres away in Italy's north-east.

&nbsp;

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Italy's football federation approved on Friday changes to Serie A's league title and relegation play-offs which were introduced last season. In a statement, the FIGC confirmed that should two teams finish on the same points at the top of the table the Scudetto would be decided in a one-match play-off.

Italy's football federation approved on Friday changes to Serie A's league title and relegation play-offs which were introduced last season. In a statement, the FIGC confirmed that should two teams finish on the same points at the top of the table the Scudetto would be decided in a one-match play-off. However the rules now state that instead of the deciding match being played at a neutral venue it would be hosted by whichever team finishes in first place. In Serie A whoever has the best head-to-head record between teams on the same points takes the higher position, after which come goal difference and goals scored if the teams still cannot be separated. The showdown could be switched to whichever stadium hosts the Italian Cup final -- in recent years Rome's Stadio Olimpico -- if the Italian authorities decide it necessary on the basis of public order. The relegation play-off, disputed by the teams which finish either side of the drop zone in 17th and 18th, will be a two-legged affair with the team higher in the table playing the second leg at home. Last season Spezia were relegated by Verona in a one-off match after ending the regular season just outside the bottom three. ALSO READ | 'You can just text me': RR star replies to former cricketers, commentators criticising his game The FIGC also said tiny Lecco would play in Serie B for the first time in half a century after deciding their bureaucratic troubles should not stop the club for registering in the second tier. Lecco, based on the eastern leg of Lake Como, were promoted last month but don't have a stadium which meets Serie B's regulations so had to find an alternative site. They had two days to submit documentation for Serie B after beating Foggia in the play-off final and missed the deadline. But they were given a reprieve by the FIGC after demonstrating that they had approval to use Padova's stadium some 200 kilometres away in Italy's north-east. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Serie A title and relegation play-offs to be rejigged by Italian FA

American football international Christian Pulisic is all set to move from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea to Serie A's AC Milan, reported ESPN citing sources. While the deal, a long-term one, has the green light from the clubs, they still have to agree on a transfer fee, ESPN added.

The Chelsea player, meanwhile, is willing to take a pay cut to make the deal work, read the ESPN report, adding that only a few little details are needed to be worked out before the teams reach a final agreement. The bone of contention, however, is the transfer fee. While Chelsea are looking for $27.3 million, the Serie A giants are looking to pay around $17-20 million, said ESPN further.

The news of Pulisic's potential move to Italy was first reported by Tuttomercatoweb, an Italian website. Chelsea's demand from AC Milan is based on the recent departure of Sandro Tonali. Milan, however, want to use that money for other players too and are considering moving away from the deal as well.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-qualifiers-two-time-champion-west-indies-fail-to-qualify-for-2023-odi-world-cup-after-loss-to-scotland-610916">CWC Qualifiers: Two-time champion West Indies fail to qualify for 2023 ODI World Cup after loss to Scotland</a>

Pulisic, 24, was signed from Bundesliga's Borussia Dortmund for around $80 million in 2019 and still has one year left on his contract with Chelsea. The EPL club, however, looking to make space after spending a whopping $762 million on new players since last year. Pulisic is in the top portion of the list of players with whom Chelsea are willing to part ways.&nbsp;

Pulisic's last two seasons at Chelsea haven't been memorable either, with him being injured a lot. The American was also booed during Chelsea's final game of the season last season when he came on as a substitute.

Overall, Pulisic has played in 59 games for Chelsea and has scored a total of 20 goals since making his debut with them in the 2019-20 season. He has nine assists to his name as well.

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American football international Christian Pulisic is all set to move from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea to Serie A's AC Milan, reported ESPN citing sources.

American football international Christian Pulisic is all set to move from English Premier League (EPL) club Chelsea to Serie A's AC Milan, reported ESPN citing sources. While the deal, a long-term one, has the green light from the clubs, they still have to agree on a transfer fee, ESPN added. The Chelsea player, meanwhile, is willing to take a pay cut to make the deal work, read the ESPN report, adding that only a few little details are needed to be worked out before the teams reach a final agreement. The bone of contention, however, is the transfer fee. While Chelsea are looking for $27.3 million, the Serie A giants are looking to pay around $17-20 million, said ESPN further. The news of Pulisic's potential move to Italy was first reported by Tuttomercatoweb, an Italian website. Chelsea's demand from AC Milan is based on the recent departure of Sandro Tonali. Milan, however, want to use that money for other players too and are considering moving away from the deal as well. Also Read: CWC Qualifiers: Two-time champion West Indies fail to qualify for 2023 ODI World Cup after loss to Scotland Pulisic, 24, was signed from Bundesliga's Borussia Dortmund for around $80 million in 2019 and still has one year left on his contract with Chelsea. The EPL club, however, looking to make space after spending a whopping $762 million on new players since last year. Pulisic is in the top portion of the list of players with whom Chelsea are willing to part ways. Pulisic's last two seasons at Chelsea haven't been memorable either, with him being injured a lot. The American was also booed during Chelsea's final game of the season last season when he came on as a substitute. Overall, Pulisic has played in 59 games for Chelsea and has scored a total of 20 goals since making his debut with them in the 2019-20 season. He has nine assists to his name as well. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Christian Pulisic to move from Chelsea to AC Milan - Report

Jose Mourinho will miss the opening two matches of the Serie A season after Italy's football federation handed the Roma coach a 10-day ban for calling a referee "the worst" he had ever seen.

In a statement, the FIGC's disciplinary tribunal said that Mourinho would serve the ban "from the beginning of the next league season" which starts on the weekend of August 19-20.

Mourinho and Roma were both fined 50,000 euros ($54,000) for his comments about Daniele Chiffi, which came after Roma's 1-1 Italian league draw at Monza early last month.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2023-ankita-raina-indias-only-singles-player-at-event-bows-out-with-a-loss-in-qualifiers-609611">Wimbledon 2023: Ankita Raina, India’s only singles player at event, bows out with a loss in qualifiers</a>

The 60-year-old clashed with Chiffi during the match and afterwards said he was "the worst referee I have encountered in my entire career".

"He is awful, he doesn't make any human connection and he has no empathy," he added.

Roma finished sixth in Serie A last season and were losing Europa League finalists.

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Jose Mourinho will miss the opening two matches of the Serie A season after Italy's football federation handed the Roma coach a 10-day ban for calling a referee "the worst" he had ever seen.

Jose Mourinho will miss the opening two matches of the Serie A season after Italy's football federation handed the Roma coach a 10-day ban for calling a referee "the worst" he had ever seen. In a statement, the FIGC's disciplinary tribunal said that Mourinho would serve the ban "from the beginning of the next league season" which starts on the weekend of August 19-20. Mourinho and Roma were both fined 50,000 euros ($54,000) for his comments about Daniele Chiffi, which came after Roma's 1-1 Italian league draw at Monza early last month. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2023: Ankita Raina, India’s only singles player at event, bows out with a loss in qualifiers The 60-year-old clashed with Chiffi during the match and afterwards said he was "the worst referee I have encountered in my entire career". "He is awful, he doesn't make any human connection and he has no empathy," he added. Roma finished sixth in Serie A last season and were losing Europa League finalists. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jose Mourinho handed two-match Serie A ban for referee rant

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. As a result, many players are understood to have started finding other clubs in order to get in on the Champions League action. A report published by Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that Chelsea held talks with Juventus director Giovanni Manna regarding Vlahovic’s possible signing. It is being learnt that the Serie A side has been told that they can choose from a list of Chelsea players, plus cash, for Vlahovic as a part of a swap deal. The report also mentions that the Old Lady will be asking for at least €80 million to sell Vlahovic.

<h2>Who are the five players?</h2>

Christian Pulisic, Romelu Lukaku, &nbsp;Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Trevoh Chalobah, and Kalidou Koulibaly are believed to have been offered by Chelsea to Juventus. Lukaku's presence on this list is certainly surprising especially given the fact that the Blues had paid a club-record fee of £97.5 million to sign the Belgian striker from Inter Milan in 2021.

As for Vlahovic, the forward has made 63 appearances so far. The Serbian has till now found the back of the net on 23 occasions. In the latest Serie A season, Vlahovic recorded 10 goals and two assists. German giants Bayern Munich are also reportedly willing to rope in the 23-year-old this summer. In international football, Vlahovic has netted 13 goals in 21 appearances.

<h2>Kai Havertz transfer update</h2>

Apart from the five above-mentioned players, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount are reportedly on the verge of departing Chelsea this summer. According to The Guardian, Arsenal are interested in signing Havertz. The report suggests that the Gunners have emerged as strong contenders to land the German international this summer. Manchester United, on the other hand, tabled an offer worth £40million to acquire the services of Mount. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea rejected Manchester United’s opening offer. Erik ten Hag's side remain confident that the English international will not be signing a new contract with Chelsea. Mount’s contract is set to expire in June 2024.

After suffering a dismal Premier League outing last season, Chelsea will aim to kick off their next campaign with renewed vigour under Mauricio Pochettino. In their last Premier League campaign, Chelsea could manage to secure a 12th-placed finish.

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic.

Chelsea have intensified their search for a new striker this summer. The club officials have already had discussions with Juventus regarding a potential transfer deal for Dusan Vlahovic. Juventus failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. As a result, many players are understood to have started finding other clubs in order to get in on the Champions League action. A report published by Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that Chelsea held talks with Juventus director Giovanni Manna regarding Vlahovic’s possible signing. It is being learnt that the Serie A side has been told that they can choose from a list of Chelsea players, plus cash, for Vlahovic as a part of a swap deal. The report also mentions that the Old Lady will be asking for at least €80 million to sell Vlahovic. Who are the five players? Christian Pulisic, Romelu Lukaku, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Trevoh Chalobah, and Kalidou Koulibaly are believed to have been offered by Chelsea to Juventus. Lukaku's presence on this list is certainly surprising especially given the fact that the Blues had paid a club-record fee of £97.5 million to sign the Belgian striker from Inter Milan in 2021. As for Vlahovic, the forward has made 63 appearances so far. The Serbian has till now found the back of the net on 23 occasions. In the latest Serie A season, Vlahovic recorded 10 goals and two assists. German giants Bayern Munich are also reportedly willing to rope in the 23-year-old this summer. In international football, Vlahovic has netted 13 goals in 21 appearances. Kai Havertz transfer update Apart from the five above-mentioned players, Kai Havertz and Mason Mount are reportedly on the verge of departing Chelsea this summer. According to The Guardian, Arsenal are interested in signing Havertz. The report suggests that the Gunners have emerged as strong contenders to land the German international this summer. Manchester United, on the other hand, tabled an offer worth £40million to acquire the services of Mount. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea rejected Manchester United’s opening offer. Erik ten Hag's side remain confident that the English international will not be signing a new contract with Chelsea. Mount’s contract is set to expire in June 2024. After suffering a dismal Premier League outing last season, Chelsea will aim to kick off their next campaign with renewed vigour under Mauricio Pochettino. In their last Premier League campaign, Chelsea could manage to secure a 12th-placed finish.

Chelsea prepare swap deal to sign Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic: Report

Kylian Mbappe told Paris Saint-Germain on Monday that he would not be taking up an option to extend his contract until 2025, raising the spectre of him following Lionel Messi out of the club this summer.

The 24-year-old France striker's current deal expires at the end of next season, with the option of another year.

If he does not sign, the French champions risk losing him for nothing in a year's time -- so they could now sell him this summer rather than miss out on a windfall for one of the world's best players.

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Mbappe's decision not to renew, announced in a letter to the club and revealed by the French sports daily L'Equipe, is a fresh blow to PSG following the loss of Messi to Inter Miami.

There had been a deadline of July 31, 2023, for Mbappe to decide.

Mbappe's move comes a little over a year since he snubbed Real Madrid by signing a surprise extension to his contract to remain at the Parc des Princes.

Real would again be chief among his suitors.

Mbappe's entourage did not respond immediately when asked late Monday evening.

The striker's departure for free at the end of his current contract, in the summer of 2024, would prove catastrophic for PSG.

In addition to the void left in the team, the club would also be deprived of the millions of euros a transfer would earn. .

The future of Brazilian fellow star striker Neymar, under contract until 2025, also appears vague ahead of what is shaping up to be a summer of upheaval in the French capital.

<h2>Growing doubts over future</h2>

Mbappe joined PSG on a season-long loan from Monaco in August 2017 that turned into a permanent deal worth 180 million euros ($194 million).

He helped France to World Cup glory as a teenager in 2018 and has established himself as arguably the leading forward on the global stage.

Mbappe also scored a hat-trick in France's 2022 World Cup final defeat to Messi's Argentina and helped Paris Saint-Germain win a record 11th French title.

But Mbappe hinted last month that he could leave in 2024.

"I said that next year I will play at PSG. I still have a year of contract so I will honour my contract," he said when asked about his future at an awards ceremony where he was voted the Ligue 1 player of the season for the fourth successive time.

At Clairefontaine, where France are preparing for their next Euro qualifying matches, the striker appeared relaxed on Monday.&nbsp;

Smiling and joking with coach Didier Deschamps and fellow attacker Antoine Griezmann, he participated in afternoon training and signed dozens of autographs for spectators.&nbsp;

The announcement of Mbappe's intentions to PSG are yet another annoyance for the club's Qatari owners following a difficult season on and off the pitch, despite winning the French title.

After another failure in the Champions League, the club are working to find a successor to coach Christophe Galtier.

The season was widely seen as a disappointment after PSG were dumped out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich in the last 16 and from the French Cup at the same stage.

As for Neymar, the Brazilian's fitness has regularly been a concern for PSG, ever since he signed from Barcelona for a world-record fee of 222 million euros in 2017.

He has scored 118 goals in 173 games for PSG, but has missed more than 100 games due either to injury or suspension.

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Kylian Mbappe told Paris Saint-Germain on Monday that he would not be taking up an option to extend his contract until 2025, raising the spectre of him following Lionel Messi out of the club this summer.

Kylian Mbappe told Paris Saint-Germain on Monday that he would not be taking up an option to extend his contract until 2025, raising the spectre of him following Lionel Messi out of the club this summer. The 24-year-old France striker's current deal expires at the end of next season, with the option of another year. If he does not sign, the French champions risk losing him for nothing in a year's time -- so they could now sell him this summer rather than miss out on a windfall for one of the world's best players. Also Read: NBA Finals: Denver Nuggets beat Miami Heat in Game 5 to win maiden championship title Mbappe's decision not to renew, announced in a letter to the club and revealed by the French sports daily L'Equipe, is a fresh blow to PSG following the loss of Messi to Inter Miami. There had been a deadline of July 31, 2023, for Mbappe to decide. Mbappe's move comes a little over a year since he snubbed Real Madrid by signing a surprise extension to his contract to remain at the Parc des Princes. Real would again be chief among his suitors. Mbappe's entourage did not respond immediately when asked late Monday evening. The striker's departure for free at the end of his current contract, in the summer of 2024, would prove catastrophic for PSG. In addition to the void left in the team, the club would also be deprived of the millions of euros a transfer would earn. . The future of Brazilian fellow star striker Neymar, under contract until 2025, also appears vague ahead of what is shaping up to be a summer of upheaval in the French capital. Growing doubts over future Mbappe joined PSG on a season-long loan from Monaco in August 2017 that turned into a permanent deal worth 180 million euros ($194 million). He helped France to World Cup glory as a teenager in 2018 and has established himself as arguably the leading forward on the global stage. Mbappe also scored a hat-trick in France's 2022 World Cup final defeat to Messi's Argentina and helped Paris Saint-Germain win a record 11th French title. But Mbappe hinted last month that he could leave in 2024. "I said that next year I will play at PSG. I still have a year of contract so I will honour my contract," he said when asked about his future at an awards ceremony where he was voted the Ligue 1 player of the season for the fourth successive time. At Clairefontaine, where France are preparing for their next Euro qualifying matches, the striker appeared relaxed on Monday. Smiling and joking with coach Didier Deschamps and fellow attacker Antoine Griezmann, he participated in afternoon training and signed dozens of autographs for spectators. The announcement of Mbappe's intentions to PSG are yet another annoyance for the club's Qatari owners following a difficult season on and off the pitch, despite winning the French title. After another failure in the Champions League, the club are working to find a successor to coach Christophe Galtier. The season was widely seen as a disappointment after PSG were dumped out of the Champions League by Bayern Munich in the last 16 and from the French Cup at the same stage. As for Neymar, the Brazilian's fitness has regularly been a concern for PSG, ever since he signed from Barcelona for a world-record fee of 222 million euros in 2017. He has scored 118 goals in 173 games for PSG, but has missed more than 100 games due either to injury or suspension. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ligue 1: Mbappe not to renew his contract in blow to PSG

AC Milan, the football club which won a host of domestic and European titles under Silvio Berlusconi's ownership, called him "unforgettable" in a tribute after his death aged 86 Monday.

"Thank you, Mr President. Always with us," the club said in a statement, adding it was "grieving the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi".

"Tomorrow, we will dream of new ambitions, create new challenges, and seek new victories. Which will represent the good, the strong, and the true that lies inside us, in all of us who shared this adventure of binding our lives to a dream called Milan," the statement continued.

Berlusconi reigned supreme at Milan from 1986 until 2017, during which time the club won 29 trophies, including five Champions League and eight Italian league titles.

Carlo Ancelotti, who won two Champions League titles as a player for AC Milan in 1989 and 1990 before then coaching the club to two more European successes in 2003 and 2007, led the tributes to the former club president.

"Today's sadness doesn't erase the happy moments spent together," Ancelotti, the current Real Madrid manager, tweeted along with a photo of him standing beside Berlusconi. "There remains infinite gratitude to the president, but above all to an ironic, loyal, intelligent, sincere man, fundamental in my adventure as a football player first, and then as a coach. Thanks President."

AC Monza, the club Berlusconi and his long-standing business partner Adriano Galliani bought in 2018 after he sold AC Milan said the former Italian prime minister's death left an unfillable hole.

"Adriano Galliani and AC Monza mourn the passing of president Silvio Berlusconi," the club said in a statement. "A gap that will never be filled, forever with us. Thank you for everything presidente."

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When Berlusconi purchased Monza in 2018, the club was in the third tier of Italian football.

Berlusconi vowed to take Monza to Serie A and with the help of Galliani, the team based near Milan reached the top flight for the first time in their history last season. Monza will play in the Italian top flight again next season after finishing the just-completed campaign in 11th place.

A second former legendary coach of AC Milan, Arrigo Sacchi, hailed the memory of "a fabulous friend to whom I owe everything", cited by the Ansa news agency.

Several other clubs also joined in tributes, including Aurelio De Laurentiis, the president of Italian champions Napoli expressing his "condolences".

"Silvio Berlusconi changed the history of Italian football," said Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian football federation.

"His contribution in terms of passion, innovation and investments, always with particular attention to the beautiful game, has been fundamental for the affirmation of our football at international level."

Serie A president Lorenzo Casini added: "He made history... by taking Italian football to the roof of Europe and the world."

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AC Milan, the football club which won a host of domestic and European titles under Silvio Berlusconi's ownership, called him "unforgettable" in a tribute after his death aged 86 Monday.

AC Milan, the football club which won a host of domestic and European titles under Silvio Berlusconi's ownership, called him "unforgettable" in a tribute after his death aged 86 Monday. "Thank you, Mr President. Always with us," the club said in a statement, adding it was "grieving the passing of the unforgettable Silvio Berlusconi". "Tomorrow, we will dream of new ambitions, create new challenges, and seek new victories. Which will represent the good, the strong, and the true that lies inside us, in all of us who shared this adventure of binding our lives to a dream called Milan," the statement continued. Berlusconi reigned supreme at Milan from 1986 until 2017, during which time the club won 29 trophies, including five Champions League and eight Italian league titles. Carlo Ancelotti, who won two Champions League titles as a player for AC Milan in 1989 and 1990 before then coaching the club to two more European successes in 2003 and 2007, led the tributes to the former club president. "Today's sadness doesn't erase the happy moments spent together," Ancelotti, the current Real Madrid manager, tweeted along with a photo of him standing beside Berlusconi. "There remains infinite gratitude to the president, but above all to an ironic, loyal, intelligent, sincere man, fundamental in my adventure as a football player first, and then as a coach. Thanks President." AC Monza, the club Berlusconi and his long-standing business partner Adriano Galliani bought in 2018 after he sold AC Milan said the former Italian prime minister's death left an unfillable hole. "Adriano Galliani and AC Monza mourn the passing of president Silvio Berlusconi," the club said in a statement. "A gap that will never be filled, forever with us. Thank you for everything presidente." ALSO READ: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic beats Casper Ruud to claim historic 23rd Grand Slam title When Berlusconi purchased Monza in 2018, the club was in the third tier of Italian football. Berlusconi vowed to take Monza to Serie A and with the help of Galliani, the team based near Milan reached the top flight for the first time in their history last season. Monza will play in the Italian top flight again next season after finishing the just-completed campaign in 11th place. A second former legendary coach of AC Milan, Arrigo Sacchi, hailed the memory of "a fabulous friend to whom I owe everything", cited by the Ansa news agency. Several other clubs also joined in tributes, including Aurelio De Laurentiis, the president of Italian champions Napoli expressing his "condolences". "Silvio Berlusconi changed the history of Italian football," said Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian football federation. "His contribution in terms of passion, innovation and investments, always with particular attention to the beautiful game, has been fundamental for the affirmation of our football at international level." Serie A president Lorenzo Casini added: "He made history... by taking Italian football to the roof of Europe and the world." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Carlo Ancelotti, others pay tribute to AC Milan's ex-owner Silvio Berlusconi who passed away aged 86

Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7). Juventus, who finished seventh in the Serie A after a point deduction, signed Di Maria on a free transfer in 2022 after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end. He is now anticipated to move to the Saudi Pro League, where his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema now resides after a big-money move to Al-Ittihad.

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<h2>Di Maria bids Farewell</h2>

“I have come to the end of a difficult and complicated period,” wrote Di Maria on Instagram.

“I leave safe in the knowledge I gave my all for the club to continue winning titles, but it was not possible. I leave with a bitter taste at not having succeeded, but with the joy of bringing with me many friends in this marvellous locker room that I was part of.

“Thank you to all my teammates for the affection they showed me from the first day, I always felt at home. I salute all the Juventini for their daily affection.

“A big hug. I will carry you in my heart.”

<h2>Di Maria’s time at Juve</h2>

The decision was largely influenced by Juventus’ inability to qualify for the Champions League next campaign. The club had a decent season in Serie A before a point deduction saw them finish seventh in the league. They will play in the UEFA Conference League next season and could face further sanctions if they are found guilty of different charges for which an investigation is underway.

Di Maria’s Juventus also faced a poor season in the Champions League where they faced elimination in the group stage. Their demotion in the Europa League was the silver lining as they made it to the semifinals before eventual champions Sevilla got the better of them.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-virat-kohli-hopes-for-another-rohit-sharma-century-at-the-oval-601649">WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval</a>

It is now expected that Di Maria could follow in the footsteps of Karim Benzema in the Saudi Pro League. There are also talks of N’Golo Kante’s departure from Chelsea to Saudi Arabia as reports have suggested he could join the league after a delegation of the Al-Ittihad arrived in London.

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Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7).

Argentine World Cup winner player Angel Di Maria has left Italian giants Juventus after one year, bringing to an end his short stint at the helm of the record Serie A champions on Wednesday (June 7). Juventus, who finished seventh in the Serie A after a point deduction, signed Di Maria on a free transfer in 2022 after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain came to an end. He is now anticipated to move to the Saudi Pro League, where his former Real Madrid teammate Karim Benzema now resides after a big-money move to Al-Ittihad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ángel Di María (@angeldimariajm) Di Maria bids Farewell “I have come to the end of a difficult and complicated period,” wrote Di Maria on Instagram. “I leave safe in the knowledge I gave my all for the club to continue winning titles, but it was not possible. I leave with a bitter taste at not having succeeded, but with the joy of bringing with me many friends in this marvellous locker room that I was part of. “Thank you to all my teammates for the affection they showed me from the first day, I always felt at home. I salute all the Juventini for their daily affection. “A big hug. I will carry you in my heart.” Di Maria’s time at Juve The decision was largely influenced by Juventus’ inability to qualify for the Champions League next campaign. The club had a decent season in Serie A before a point deduction saw them finish seventh in the league. They will play in the UEFA Conference League next season and could face further sanctions if they are found guilty of different charges for which an investigation is underway. Di Maria’s Juventus also faced a poor season in the Champions League where they faced elimination in the group stage. Their demotion in the Europa League was the silver lining as they made it to the semifinals before eventual champions Sevilla got the better of them. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Virat Kohli hopes for another Rohit Sharma century at the Oval It is now expected that Di Maria could follow in the footsteps of Karim Benzema in the Saudi Pro League. There are also talks of N’Golo Kante’s departure from Chelsea to Saudi Arabia as reports have suggested he could join the league after a delegation of the Al-Ittihad arrived in London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Angel Di Maria leaves Juventus after one season, likely to follow Karim Benzema in Saudi Pro League

Veteran football player Zlatan Ibrhimovic announced his retirement from the game after AC Milan's 3-1 victory over Vernoa in the last game of the season of Italian league Serie A. The 41-year-old, who scored 93 goals for AC Milan in 163 appearances over two stints, was given a guard of honour by his teammates after the match.

The footballer, who is known for his wit, was emotional during his press conference when he announced his retirement.&nbsp;

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San Siro's final tribute to 𝙕𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝙄𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙘́ 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SempreMilan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SempreMilan</a> <a href="https://t.co/9XTYZ0QtNt">pic.twitter.com/9XTYZ0QtNt</a>
— AC Milan (@acmilan) <a href="https://twitter.com/acmilan/status/1665508860428443650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Even my family didn’t know, because I wanted that when I announced it everyone heard it at the same time," said Zlatan.

“I have so many memories and emotions inside this stadium. The first time I arrived you gave me happiness, the second time you gave me love.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-finals-heat-hold-on-to-three-point-lead-to-beat-nuggets-in-thriller-game-2-600651https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-finals-heat-hold-on-to-three-point-lead-to-beat-nuggets-in-thriller-game-2-600651">NBA Finals: Heat hold on to three-point lead to beat Nuggets in thriller Game 2</a>

“I want to thank my family … I want to thank my second family: the players. I want to thank the coach and his staff for the responsibility, I want to thank the directors for the opportunity. Last but not least, from my heart, I want to thank you fans,” he added.

Zlatan, who returned to AC Milan on 2020 after a short-stint from 2010-12, helped the club win its second trophy last year but could appear only in four games this season due to knee injury.

The footballer also had a winning stint with multiple clubs, that is, at Paris Saint Germain, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Juventus, and &nbsp;Ajax. He had started his career with hometown club Malmo in Sweden and also played with Manchester United and LA Galaxy as well.

The swashbuckler, while being emotional, still managed to show his witty side as he said at the press conference with a smile, "I woke up this morning and it was raining, and I thought ‘Even God is crying."

It’s too difficult, there are so many emotions going through me now. But I will say, ‘I’ll see you around, if you’re lucky,’” added the Swede before signing off.

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Veteran football player Zlatan Ibrhimovic announced his retirement from the game after AC Milan's 3-1 victory over Vernoa in the last game of the season of Italian league Serie A.

Veteran football player Zlatan Ibrhimovic announced his retirement from the game after AC Milan's 3-1 victory over Vernoa in the last game of the season of Italian league Serie A. The 41-year-old, who scored 93 goals for AC Milan in 163 appearances over two stints, was given a guard of honour by his teammates after the match. The footballer, who is known for his wit, was emotional during his press conference when he announced his retirement. San Siro's final tribute to 𝙕𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝙄𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙘́ 🌟#SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/9XTYZ0QtNt — AC Milan (@acmilan) June 5, 2023 × “Even my family didn’t know, because I wanted that when I announced it everyone heard it at the same time," said Zlatan. “I have so many memories and emotions inside this stadium. The first time I arrived you gave me happiness, the second time you gave me love. Also Read: NBA Finals: Heat hold on to three-point lead to beat Nuggets in thriller Game 2 “I want to thank my family … I want to thank my second family: the players. I want to thank the coach and his staff for the responsibility, I want to thank the directors for the opportunity. Last but not least, from my heart, I want to thank you fans,” he added. Zlatan, who returned to AC Milan on 2020 after a short-stint from 2010-12, helped the club win its second trophy last year but could appear only in four games this season due to knee injury. The footballer also had a winning stint with multiple clubs, that is, at Paris Saint Germain, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Juventus, and Ajax. He had started his career with hometown club Malmo in Sweden and also played with Manchester United and LA Galaxy as well. The swashbuckler, while being emotional, still managed to show his witty side as he said at the press conference with a smile, "I woke up this morning and it was raining, and I thought ‘Even God is crying." It’s too difficult, there are so many emotions going through me now. But I will say, ‘I’ll see you around, if you’re lucky,’” added the Swede before signing off. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Even God is crying: AC Milan forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic announces retirement

Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football.

A 2-0 win over relegated Sampdoria was little more than a hors-d'oeuvre before the real reason fans jammed into the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona -- to see their team lift the trophy for the first time in 33 long years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-big-setback-for-england-as-jack-leach-ruled-out-due-to-stress-fracture-in-lower-back-600477">Ashes 2023: Big setback for England as Jack Leach ruled out due to stress fracture in lower back</a>

Victor Osimhen opened the scoring from the penalty spot midway through the second half, the 26th league strike of a stunning season which made him Serie A's all-time top African scorer.

Giovanni Simeone then made sure the hosts would finish the season on 90 points in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike before celebrating by holding up a Napoli shirt worn by icon and compatriot Maradona.

"I don't know, the president has to decide that,"&nbsp;Osimhen told DAZN when asked whether he might leave in a big-money summer move.

"I love the people of Napoli, they have shown me so much love. For me, I don't mind, the president decides and I will just go with the flow."

Spalletti will be on gardening leave for a year while still under contract with Napoli, and he will return to his Tuscan vineyard the oldest ever coach to win the Scudetto at 64.

<h2>'True to myself'</h2>

Napoli's title triumph was the crowning glory of Spalletti's long and eventful coaching career which has brought plenty of plaudits but few trophies.

"I need to be true to myself, leaving was a decision I made, that I came to. Even when I'm at home it'll be like I was in the stands watching and cheering for them." said Spalletti.

Fans will be hoping that whoever takes Spalletti's place will&nbsp;be able to utilise the hugely talented squad assembled by outgoing sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, as some like Osimhen are targets for richer clubs north of the Alps.

"I would tell them to trust these boys because they have a human and playing quality that means you can allow them to keep the ball rolling," said Spalletti.

Fabio Quagliarella openly blubbed as he was honoured by his fellow Napoli supporters in his final match in Italy's top flight.

The 40-year-old, who has scored 182 Serie A goals, was given a plaque by supporters who also unfurled a banner in the stands which said "you will never be forgotten by your people", and was given a rousing applause when he was substituted late on.

Napoli fans considered the Samp captain an enemy when he left for hated rivals Juventus after just one season in 2010, unaware until years later that a bizarre stalking plot had forced his departure.

<h2>Zlatan quits</h2>

Zlatan Ibrahimovic surprised fans by revealing that he was quitting football after AC Milan's 3-1 win over Verona which sent their opponents into a relegation play-off with Spezia who lost 2-1 at Roma.

The 41-year-old, a key figure in Milan's resurgence to the top of Italian football since his return in late 2019, was in the stands injured as he has been for most of the season before announcing his retirement.

"It's the moment to say goodbye to football, not just to you," said Ibrahimovic on the San Siro pitch.

"There are too many emotions for me right now. Forza Milan and goodbye."

Ibrahimovic was hugged by Rafael Leao who after signing a new deal until 2028 on Friday scored twice late on to secure the win for fourth-placed Milan.

However Paulo Dybala's stoppage-time penalty ensured Europa League football for Roma and sent Spezia into a one-off match next Sunday set to decide their and Verona's fate.

Roma's win means Juventus have to settle for the Europa Conference League despite Federico Chiesa giving them a 1-0 win at Udinese, assuming they are not banned from Europe by UEFA for financial irregularities.

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Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football.

Napoli fans watched their heroes finally lift the Serie A trophy on Sunday as coach Luciano Spalletti walked away from Naples, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced his retirement from football. A 2-0 win over relegated Sampdoria was little more than a hors-d'oeuvre before the real reason fans jammed into the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona -- to see their team lift the trophy for the first time in 33 long years. Also Read: Ashes 2023: Big setback for England as Jack Leach ruled out due to stress fracture in lower back Victor Osimhen opened the scoring from the penalty spot midway through the second half, the 26th league strike of a stunning season which made him Serie A's all-time top African scorer. Giovanni Simeone then made sure the hosts would finish the season on 90 points in the 85th minute with a stunning long-range strike before celebrating by holding up a Napoli shirt worn by icon and compatriot Maradona. "I don't know, the president has to decide that," Osimhen told DAZN when asked whether he might leave in a big-money summer move. "I love the people of Napoli, they have shown me so much love. For me, I don't mind, the president decides and I will just go with the flow." Spalletti will be on gardening leave for a year while still under contract with Napoli, and he will return to his Tuscan vineyard the oldest ever coach to win the Scudetto at 64. 'True to myself' Napoli's title triumph was the crowning glory of Spalletti's long and eventful coaching career which has brought plenty of plaudits but few trophies. "I need to be true to myself, leaving was a decision I made, that I came to. Even when I'm at home it'll be like I was in the stands watching and cheering for them." said Spalletti. Fans will be hoping that whoever takes Spalletti's place will be able to utilise the hugely talented squad assembled by outgoing sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, as some like Osimhen are targets for richer clubs north of the Alps. "I would tell them to trust these boys because they have a human and playing quality that means you can allow them to keep the ball rolling," said Spalletti. Fabio Quagliarella openly blubbed as he was honoured by his fellow Napoli supporters in his final match in Italy's top flight. The 40-year-old, who has scored 182 Serie A goals, was given a plaque by supporters who also unfurled a banner in the stands which said "you will never be forgotten by your people", and was given a rousing applause when he was substituted late on. Napoli fans considered the Samp captain an enemy when he left for hated rivals Juventus after just one season in 2010, unaware until years later that a bizarre stalking plot had forced his departure. Zlatan quits Zlatan Ibrahimovic surprised fans by revealing that he was quitting football after AC Milan's 3-1 win over Verona which sent their opponents into a relegation play-off with Spezia who lost 2-1 at Roma. The 41-year-old, a key figure in Milan's resurgence to the top of Italian football since his return in late 2019, was in the stands injured as he has been for most of the season before announcing his retirement. "It's the moment to say goodbye to football, not just to you," said Ibrahimovic on the San Siro pitch. "There are too many emotions for me right now. Forza Milan and goodbye." Ibrahimovic was hugged by Rafael Leao who after signing a new deal until 2028 on Friday scored twice late on to secure the win for fourth-placed Milan. However Paulo Dybala's stoppage-time penalty ensured Europa League football for Roma and sent Spezia into a one-off match next Sunday set to decide their and Verona's fate. Roma's win means Juventus have to settle for the Europa Conference League despite Federico Chiesa giving them a 1-0 win at Udinese, assuming they are not banned from Europe by UEFA for financial irregularities. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Napoli celebrate title, Zlatan Ibrahimovic announces retirement

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club.

<h2>Juventus avoid point deduction</h2>

Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros.&nbsp;

Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions.

The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football.

Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A.

Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction.

If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League.

Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial.&nbsp;

<h2>Losses artificially reduced</h2>

The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced.&nbsp;

In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted.

Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities.

In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board.&nbsp;

It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22.

In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months.

Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March.&nbsp;

Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May.&nbsp;

On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome.&nbsp;

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Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal.

Juventus escaped an additional Serie A points deduction but agreed to pay a fine of more than 700,000 euros ($751,000) for lying about players foregoing wages during the Covid-19 pandemic after a plea bargain approved Tuesday by the Italian Football Federation tribunal. The plea deal, which Juventus had requested, brings to an end a series of cases in Italy's sporting courts involving the Turin club. Juventus avoid point deduction Last week they were given a 10-point deduction in Serie A after a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. Juventus have agreed not to appeal that penalty as part of Tuesday's deal. The disciplinary tribunal of the Italian federation (FIGC) said in a published decision that it had fined the troubled club 718,240 euros, while seven of its management figures were ordered to pay fines ranging from 47,000 euros to 10,000 euros. Excluded from the plea agreement, however, is former chairman Andrea Agnelli, who jointly requested along with prosecutors that his hearing be postponed to June 15, given what the tribunal called "advanced talks" on potential sanctions. The federation had been tasked with considering the deferred payment of certain players' wages by the club and its key figures, as part of a wide-ranging scandal involving false accounting and transfer trickery that has rocked Italian football. Newspaper La Stampa, which, like Juventus, is owned by the Agnelli family, wrote on Tuesday that the club had accepted the deal to avoid another points deduction, which could have pushed it further away from the European places in Serie A. Juventus are seventh in Serie A with one game of the season remaining, after the imposition of the 10-point deduction. If they hold that position on the final day, they will qualify for next season's Europa Conference League, but they still have a chance of finishing as high as fifth and going into the Europa League. Juve faces separate criminal proceedings in the affair, with 12 current and former key club figures including former chairman Agnelli potentially facing trial. Losses artificially reduced The plea bargain agreed Tuesday relates to the Turin club having communicated that players were giving up salary payments during the pandemic in 2020, while privately assuring those players they would only miss out on a portion of what was publicly announced. In doing so, Juve was able to artificially reduce losses in the club's annual balance sheets during the pandemic, when matches were cancelled and revenue plummeted. Agnelli, his ex-deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, and the rest of the club's board resigned in November following the probe by Italian authorities into the accounting irregularities. In its decision, the tribunal said that the individual "F.P." would be fined 47,000 euros, and "P.N." 35,250 euros -- referring to Juve's former sporting director Fabio Paratici, and Nedved, respectively. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title A 15-point penalty inflicted by the FIGC's appeals court in January against Juve for overstating capital gains on player sales was revoked in April by Italy's highest sporting court, the Sports Guarantee Board. It was then revised to 10 points by the federation's appeals court on May 22. In January, the federation hit both Agnelli and ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene with two-year bans, handing sporting director Federico Cherubini a ban of 16 months. Former sporting director Paratici, who had left Juve for Tottenham Hotspur, was banned for two-and-a-half years, a decision that was extended worldwide by FIFA in March. Juve icon Nedved, originally banned for eight months, was acquitted by the appeals court in May. On the criminal front, Italian news agencies have reported that a court hearing on October 26 will determine whether any possible trial will be held in Turin, where the investigation has been based, or Milan or Rome. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Juventus fined, avoid points deduction in false accounting trial

Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries. Juventus docked 10 points in the current Serie A campaign are facing a Champions League exile as a result of the points deduction. As things stand, Juventus are trying to avoid further sanctions which could see them miss out on European football altogether next season.

<h2>Juve's points deduction plea</h2>

According to a source from Reuters, a hearing with a court at the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) has been brought forward to Tuesday, the source added. It had initially been scheduled to be heard on June 15. Currently, the club is trying to avoid further sanctions and would like to pay a hefty fine and get penalised for the current Serie A campaign. According to several news outlets in Italy, the most successful domestic club is determined to get its slate cleared for all the sanctions and enter the 2023-24 campaign with no backlogs.

The report also adds that UEFA could also forfeit Juve's place in next season's Conference League if they face probe in a separate investigation from the European governing body. As things stand, Juve would prefer all the sanctions take place this season, which will see them serve all the penalties.

The club has been docked off 10 points already in the season for a probe regarding account issues while their 15-point points reduction was recently overturned and saw them return to Champions League place before facing another axe.

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The club has previously denied wrongdoing and said its accounts are in line with the football industry practices.

Inquiries by sports authorities were triggered by investigations from criminal prosecutors in Turin, where the club is based, in a case regarding alleged false accounting.

As part of this case, former Chairman Andrea Agnelli, 11 other people, and the club itself risk standing trial.

Currently, Juventus are seventh and could still finish fifth if results go their way on the final day of the season. They lost to Sevilla in the Europa League semifinal and missed the backdoor to make the Champions League next season.&nbsp;

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Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries.

Juventus are seeking a plea deal to avoid further points deduction in Serie A having been found guilty of alleged irregularities in its payment of players' salaries. Juventus docked 10 points in the current Serie A campaign are facing a Champions League exile as a result of the points deduction. As things stand, Juventus are trying to avoid further sanctions which could see them miss out on European football altogether next season. Juve's points deduction plea According to a source from Reuters, a hearing with a court at the Italian Soccer Federation (FIGC) has been brought forward to Tuesday, the source added. It had initially been scheduled to be heard on June 15. Currently, the club is trying to avoid further sanctions and would like to pay a hefty fine and get penalised for the current Serie A campaign. According to several news outlets in Italy, the most successful domestic club is determined to get its slate cleared for all the sanctions and enter the 2023-24 campaign with no backlogs. The report also adds that UEFA could also forfeit Juve's place in next season's Conference League if they face probe in a separate investigation from the European governing body. As things stand, Juve would prefer all the sanctions take place this season, which will see them serve all the penalties. The club has been docked off 10 points already in the season for a probe regarding account issues while their 15-point points reduction was recently overturned and saw them return to Champions League place before facing another axe. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title The club has previously denied wrongdoing and said its accounts are in line with the football industry practices. Inquiries by sports authorities were triggered by investigations from criminal prosecutors in Turin, where the club is based, in a case regarding alleged false accounting. As part of this case, former Chairman Andrea Agnelli, 11 other people, and the club itself risk standing trial. Currently, Juventus are seventh and could still finish fifth if results go their way on the final day of the season. They lost to Sevilla in the Europa League semifinal and missed the backdoor to make the Champions League next season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Juventus seek plea deal to avoid further points deduction in alleged irregularities over player salaries

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus.

Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin&nbsp;in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-max-verstappen-extends-lead-with-dominant-victory-in-monaco-rain-597585">Formula One: Max Verstappen extends lead with dominant victory in Monaco rain</a>

Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage.

They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season&nbsp;and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup.

"This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli.&nbsp;

"We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons."

Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday.

Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants.

<h2>Lecce safe</h2>

Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day.

Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check.

Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro&nbsp;Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining.

That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father.

"I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN.

Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli.

They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points.

<h2>Osimhen not enough</h2>

Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna.

Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes.

However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player.&nbsp;

Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical.

"He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai.

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio.

Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic&nbsp;had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark.

His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day.

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Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season.

Olivier Giroud secured Champions League qualification for AC Milan with the only goal in Sunday's 1-0 win at troubled Juventus. Giroud guided home a brilliant header from Davide Calabria's cross in the 40th minute to guarantee Milan at least fourth place and complete Italy's line-up in Europe's top club competition next season. It was the one moment of quality in an otherwise drab match in Turin in which little of consequence happened apart from Giroud's 12th league goal of the season. Also Read: Formula One: Max Verstappen extends lead with dominant victory in Monaco rain Stefano Pioli's side, who were knocked out of this year's Champions League in the semi-finals by Inter Milan, join their local rivals, Lazio and champions Napoli on the continent's big stage. They are six points ahead of fifth-placed Atalanta with one match left in what has been a long season and one in which their title defence collapsed after the World Cup. "This was the first time we truly tried to be competitive in two tournaments and we were lacking something," said Pioli. "We can enjoy the win and qualification, but it was a strange season for many reasons." Juve meanwhile stay seventh and in the Europa Conference League spot after being deducted 10 points for illicit transfer activity by the Italian Football Federation on Monday. Massimiliano Allegri's side can still reach the Europa League spots as they are one point behind Roma in sixth, although the spectre of more punishment for financial irregularities hangs over the Turin giants. Lecce safe Lecce ensured Serie A survival after late penalty drama gave them a 1-0 win over Monza, while a crushing late draw with Empoli took Verona's survival battle to the final day. Lorenzo Colombo rammed home the spot-kick which maintained Lecce's Serie A status in the 11th minute of stoppage time after Christian Gytkjaer was penalised for handball following a VAR check. Former Denmark forward Gytkjaer had a penalty of his own saved by Wladimiro Falcone with six minutes of regular time remaining. That allowed Colombo to fire Lecce five points clear of the drop zone and cause coach Marco Baroni to sink to his knees in joy and grief for his recently deceased father. "I thought about my father because I lost him recently... I felt him by my side in that moment," Baroni told DAZN. Verona sit in the final relegation spot after a gut-wrenching Giangiacomo Magnani own goal in the sixth minute of injury time which snatched a 1-1 draw for safe Empoli. They are level on 31 points with 17th-placed Spezia, whom they might have to face in a play-off devised this season to decide who ends up in 18th place between teams who finish on the same points. Osimhen not enough Victor Osimhen's brace wasn't enough for Napoli as the newly-crowned Italian champions threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Bologna. Nigeria forward Osimhen took his season's tally to 30 in all competitions with finishes in the 14th and 54th minutes. However Lewis Ferguson pulled one back in the 63rd minute and Lorenzo De Silvestri headed the hosts level in his final home match as a Bologna player. Napoli won their first league title since 1990 this season but owner Aurelio De Laurentiis said that coach Luciano Spalletti will leave to take a year's sabbatical. "He's a free man, he's given us something and I thank him, it's right that he does what he wants," said De Laurentiis to state broadcaster Rai. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic's 89th-minute winner in a 3-2 success over relegated Cremonese reclaimed second spot for Lazio. Serbia midfielder Milinkovic-Savic had put Lazio two goals ahead at half-time but Pablo Galdames and a Manuel Lazzari own goal had the away side level within four second-half minutes just before the hour mark. His late winner puts Lazio two points ahead of Inter with the two teams travelling to Empoli and Torino respectively on the final day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Giroud's goal against Juventus puts AC Milan in Champions League

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus.

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"The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports.

"We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season."

Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010.

Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points.

Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way.

Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside.

Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi.

Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining.

Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months.

<h2>Not good enough</h2>

Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday.

Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night.

"It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN.

"These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today."

Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February.

"Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer.

"In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work."

Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game.

Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area.

Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions.

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Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia.

Inter Milan warmed up for their Champions League semi-final showdown with AC Milan with an entertaining 4-2 win over Sassuolo on Saturday while their city rivals floundered 2-0 at Serie A strugglers Spezia. A Romelu Lukaku brace on his 30th birthday, a further strike from Lautaro Martinez and an unfortunate Ruan Tressoldi own goal were enough for Inter to claim a seventh straight win in all competitions and move level on 66 points with second-placed Juventus. Also Read: Ligue 1: Messi jeered in return as PSG inch closer to title "The coach told us the game was a match-point for the top four, and we're in good shape as we've been winning a lot of games recently," said Lukaku to Sky Sports. "We can still win two trophies and on Tuesday we have a very difficult match against the team that won the league last season." Inter hold a 2-0 lead over Milan ahead of Tuesday's second leg and Simone Inzaghi's side look almost certain to reach their first Champions League final since they last won it in 2010. Their chances of qualifying for next season's edition of Europe's top club competition were also greatly improved by Saturday's win, which came after top four rivals Lazio, Milan and Atalanta all dropped points. Inter are five points ahead of fifth-placed Milan but after looking like they were going to cruise to the win they didn't end up having it their own way. Lukaku put Inter ahead with a rasping effort shortly before the break after both Domenico Berardi and Joaquin Correa had goals ruled out for offside. Ten minutes after the restart, Tressoldi headed Raoul Bellanova's cross into his own net and the match seemed over three minutes later, when Martinez's effort was deflected again by Tressoldi. Headers from Matheus Henrique and Davide Frattesi pulled Sassuolo back into the game until Lukaku finally sealed the points with a fine low finish with two minutes remaining. Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Salvatore Esposito struck their first Serie A goals in the final 15 minutes to sink Milan and give Spezia their first win in two months. Not good enough Leonardo Semplici's team are still in the relegation zone but Saturday's win moves them level on 30 points with Verona, who sit one place above the bottom three and host Torino on Sunday. Next weekend, Spezia travel to Lecce who are just two points above the drop zone in 16th following their 2-2 draw at Lazio on Friday night. "It's a goal I've dreamed about since I was a child, I used to talk to a good friend of mine who is a big Milan fan and I'd always tell him that I'd score against them," said Esposito to DAZN. "These are big points for Spezia... we never lost faith, otherwise you'd never see performances like the one today." Stefano Pioli's Milan team have won three times in their last 11 league matches and Saturday's defeat was their 10th of a strange season in which their league title defence was de facto over by February. "Tonight was not good enough... Tuesday we have another battle. We've had a lot of trouble with these kinds of matches and it's difficult to explain why," said Milan defender Simon Kjaer. "In our line of work you need to mentally separate the matches you play because the match we played on Wednesday and today's were completely different. We need to remove this one from our minds and get back to work." Spezia's win means Salernitana will have to wait for mathematical safety, although they should stay up after Antonio Candreva shot them to a 1-0 win over Atalanta in the day's early game. Under a torrential downpour in southern Italy, Candreva won the match for Salernitana in the 93rd minute with a powerful low drive from the edge of the area. Salernitana are eight points above Spezia with three games remaining in the season, while Atalanta are seventh and seven points from the Champions League positions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Inter warm up for Champions League semis with win, AC Milan lose 0-2

In a tragic turn of events, a 26-year-old lost his life in the early hours of Friday morning after being wounded in the wild celebrations in Naples after its soccer team became Serie A champions for the first time in 33 years, as per local officials.

According to the police, the man died in Cardarelli Hospital in Naples.

UK media outlets linked the death of the individual to celebratory gunshots, whereas, Reuters, citing Naples Prefect Claudio Palomba, said the incident had “nothing to do with the celebrations” and linked it to score-settling within the local Camorra mafia.

On Thursday evening, thousands of Napoli supporters took to the streets to celebrate the club's win. After the Napoli team secured the "Scudetto" title with a 1-1 draw away at Udinese in northeast Italy, mass street partying, followed by fireworks, flares, horns and firecrackers, began.

"Even those who don't follow football took to the streets to celebrate. I am not a supporter, but I took to the streets for a sense of belonging to this wonderful city, which has so much to offer," a Naples resident, who gave her name only as Federica, told Reuters.

According to Naples health authorities, at least 203 people accessed emergency services overnight, including 22 with "red-level" critical injuries and 75 with "yellow-level" serious but not life-threatening conditions.

<h2>Scuffles between Napoli and Udinese fans after match</h2>

As per Italy's news agency, on Thursday, post-match brawls broke out in Udine as Napoli fans ran onto the stadium pitch to celebrate with players.

The reports further added that the fans then encountered aggressive home supporters armed with belts and batons.

According to RAI public television reports, anti-riot police interceded to break up the fights, and reportedly six fans sustained non-serious injuries.

<h2>Napoli's historic triumph</h2>

Napoli finally ended their long wait to win Italy's Serie A on Thursday after a 1-1 draw at Udinese secured their third league title with a record-equalling five games to play.

Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal in the second half as Napoli's current stars came back from behind to Sandi Lovric's opener at half-time and emulated the teams led by Diego Maradona which won the league in 1987 and 1990.

Spalletti and his squad will receive an emotional welcome when they return to Naples, where the partying is set to continue until at least their next home fixture against Fiorentina on Sunday evening.

"Seeing Neapolitans happy is enough to give you a sense of that joy they are feeling," Spalletti told DAZN on the verge of tears.

"These people will look to this moment when life gets hard, they have every right to celebrate like this. You feel a bit more relaxed knowing that you've given them this moment of happiness."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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In a tragic turn of events, a 26-year-old lost his life in the early hours of Friday morning after being wounded in the wild celebrations in Naples after its soccer team became Serie A champions for the first time in 33 years, as per local officials.

In a tragic turn of events, a 26-year-old lost his life in the early hours of Friday morning after being wounded in the wild celebrations in Naples after its soccer team became Serie A champions for the first time in 33 years, as per local officials. According to the police, the man died in Cardarelli Hospital in Naples. UK media outlets linked the death of the individual to celebratory gunshots, whereas, Reuters, citing Naples Prefect Claudio Palomba, said the incident had “nothing to do with the celebrations” and linked it to score-settling within the local Camorra mafia. On Thursday evening, thousands of Napoli supporters took to the streets to celebrate the club's win. After the Napoli team secured the "Scudetto" title with a 1-1 draw away at Udinese in northeast Italy, mass street partying, followed by fireworks, flares, horns and firecrackers, began. "Even those who don't follow football took to the streets to celebrate. I am not a supporter, but I took to the streets for a sense of belonging to this wonderful city, which has so much to offer," a Naples resident, who gave her name only as Federica, told Reuters. According to Naples health authorities, at least 203 people accessed emergency services overnight, including 22 with "red-level" critical injuries and 75 with "yellow-level" serious but not life-threatening conditions. Scuffles between Napoli and Udinese fans after match As per Italy's news agency, on Thursday, post-match brawls broke out in Udine as Napoli fans ran onto the stadium pitch to celebrate with players. The reports further added that the fans then encountered aggressive home supporters armed with belts and batons. According to RAI public television reports, anti-riot police interceded to break up the fights, and reportedly six fans sustained non-serious injuries. Napoli's historic triumph Napoli finally ended their long wait to win Italy's Serie A on Thursday after a 1-1 draw at Udinese secured their third league title with a record-equalling five games to play. Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal in the second half as Napoli's current stars came back from behind to Sandi Lovric's opener at half-time and emulated the teams led by Diego Maradona which won the league in 1987 and 1990. Spalletti and his squad will receive an emotional welcome when they return to Naples, where the partying is set to continue until at least their next home fixture against Fiorentina on Sunday evening. "Seeing Neapolitans happy is enough to give you a sense of that joy they are feeling," Spalletti told DAZN on the verge of tears. "These people will look to this moment when life gets hard, they have every right to celebrate like this. You feel a bit more relaxed knowing that you've given them this moment of happiness." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mafia revenge killing? Napoli fan dies after sustaining wounds from celebratory gunshots

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic. England youth international, Samuel Iling-Junior netted 55 minutes into his first start in Italy's top flight before Vlahovic finished the job deep in stoppage time with his 10th league goal of a difficult season.

The Serbia forward then goaded a section of the home supporters after having previously being insulted as a "gypsy", abuse which had led to the match being briefly stopped by referee Daniele Doveri.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luka-modric-to-extend-real-madrid-stay-set-to-sign-new-deal-until-2024-589990">Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024</a>

The Italian word for gypsy is often used by sections of football supporters as a slur for players from the Balkans and eastern Europe, regardless of their ethnicity.

"Unfortunately, these chants keep happening, they need to be fought against," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri to DAZN. "I think we need to ignore them when they happen and let those in charge take action."

Juve are two points ahead of Lazio who lost at AC Milan on Saturday and, as things stand, have a good chance of making the Champions League next season.

Massimiliano Allegri's side are five points in front of fifth-placed Milan but their hopes of qualifying for Europe's top club competition through league placing depend on an Italian Football Federation (FIGC) ruling on alleged illicit transfer activity.

Last month Italy's highest sporting court revoked a 15-point penalty inflicted on Juve in January by the FIGC's appeals tribunal, who have to come to a new judgement.

Juve can also qualify for the Champions League via the Europa League, with the first leg of their semi-final against Sevilla coming up in Turin on Thursday.

Atalanta's chances of making the top four were hit by their defeat, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side five points behind fourth-placed Inter and in the Europa Conference League spot.

Gasperini tried to play down the abuse Vlahovic received from Atalanta fans, saying that there needed to be "a distinction between insults aimed at an individual and a general racist one".

Later on Sunday, Napoli make their first appearance in front of their home fans since becoming Italian champions for the first time since 1990 when they host Fiorentina.

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic.

Juventus moved up to second in Serie A on Sunday after a 2-0 win at fellow Champions League chasers Atalanta, whose fans racially abused Juve goalscorer Dusan Vlahovic. England youth international, Samuel Iling-Junior netted 55 minutes into his first start in Italy's top flight before Vlahovic finished the job deep in stoppage time with his 10th league goal of a difficult season. The Serbia forward then goaded a section of the home supporters after having previously being insulted as a "gypsy", abuse which had led to the match being briefly stopped by referee Daniele Doveri. ALSO READ: Luka Modric to extend Real Madrid stay, set to sign new deal until 2024 The Italian word for gypsy is often used by sections of football supporters as a slur for players from the Balkans and eastern Europe, regardless of their ethnicity. "Unfortunately, these chants keep happening, they need to be fought against," said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri to DAZN. "I think we need to ignore them when they happen and let those in charge take action." Juve are two points ahead of Lazio who lost at AC Milan on Saturday and, as things stand, have a good chance of making the Champions League next season. Massimiliano Allegri's side are five points in front of fifth-placed Milan but their hopes of qualifying for Europe's top club competition through league placing depend on an Italian Football Federation (FIGC) ruling on alleged illicit transfer activity. Last month Italy's highest sporting court revoked a 15-point penalty inflicted on Juve in January by the FIGC's appeals tribunal, who have to come to a new judgement. Juve can also qualify for the Champions League via the Europa League, with the first leg of their semi-final against Sevilla coming up in Turin on Thursday. Atalanta's chances of making the top four were hit by their defeat, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side five points behind fourth-placed Inter and in the Europa Conference League spot. Gasperini tried to play down the abuse Vlahovic received from Atalanta fans, saying that there needed to be "a distinction between insults aimed at an individual and a general racist one". Later on Sunday, Napoli make their first appearance in front of their home fans since becoming Italian champions for the first time since 1990 when they host Fiorentina.

Serie A: Forward Dusan Vlahovic racially abused as Juventus climb to second spot after 2-0 win over Atalanta

Victor Osimhen said on Thursday that he will never forget winning Napoli's first Serie A title in over three decades after his goal finally pushed southern Italy's biggest club over the line. Nigeria striker Osimhen's 22nd league goal of the season earned Napoli a 1-1 draw at Udinese, which was enough to win a first league crown since 1990.

"It is an amazing feeling; we have waited so many years for this moment. To be able to deliver the Scudetto to the Neapolitans is something that we will never forget in a hurry and will continue to live in our hearts for the rest of our lives," Osimhen said to DAZN. "I'm happy for all Neapolitans... now we're going to celebrate in front of our own fans and enjoy the moment for life."

Napoli started the season in turmoil as fans were in revolt against club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis after key players including supporter favourite Kalidou Koulibaly left or were sold.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/napoli-end-33-year-wait-for-serie-a-title-589021">Napoli end 33-year wait for Italy's Serie A title</a>

However, a clutch of new arrivals made an instant impact and Napoli charged almost unopposed to a historic Scudetto which puts the current crop alongside the teams led to two titles by Diego Maradona.

"I'm overwhelmed right now, I don't know the words to use to really quantify this feeling... Nobody has deserved this Scudetto more than the Neapolitans," added Osimhen.

"We were underdogs at the start of the season, not so many people believed in us. This team stuck together... we believed from the start of the season that we had a great squad that we could deliver the Scudetto. Now we have realised this dream."

Osimhen broke his face mask while celebrating his title-deciding strike, but luckily help was on hand from the sidelines.

"Yes, my mask was broken, but I had a lot, they brought a lot for me so I had change it," smiled the 24-year-old of the face protection he wears after breaking his cheekbone back in 2021.

Victor Osimhen said on Thursday that he will never forget winning Napoli's first Serie A title in over three decades after his goal finally pushed southern Italy's biggest club over the line.

Victor Osimhen said on Thursday that he will never forget winning Napoli's first Serie A title in over three decades after his goal finally pushed southern Italy's biggest club over the line. Nigeria striker Osimhen's 22nd league goal of the season earned Napoli a 1-1 draw at Udinese, which was enough to win a first league crown since 1990. "It is an amazing feeling; we have waited so many years for this moment. To be able to deliver the Scudetto to the Neapolitans is something that we will never forget in a hurry and will continue to live in our hearts for the rest of our lives," Osimhen said to DAZN. "I'm happy for all Neapolitans... now we're going to celebrate in front of our own fans and enjoy the moment for life." Napoli started the season in turmoil as fans were in revolt against club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis after key players including supporter favourite Kalidou Koulibaly left or were sold. ALSO READ: Napoli end 33-year wait for Italy's Serie A title However, a clutch of new arrivals made an instant impact and Napoli charged almost unopposed to a historic Scudetto which puts the current crop alongside the teams led to two titles by Diego Maradona. "I'm overwhelmed right now, I don't know the words to use to really quantify this feeling... Nobody has deserved this Scudetto more than the Neapolitans," added Osimhen. "We were underdogs at the start of the season, not so many people believed in us. This team stuck together... we believed from the start of the season that we had a great squad that we could deliver the Scudetto. Now we have realised this dream." Osimhen broke his face mask while celebrating his title-deciding strike, but luckily help was on hand from the sidelines. "Yes, my mask was broken, but I had a lot, they brought a lot for me so I had change it," smiled the 24-year-old of the face protection he wears after breaking his cheekbone back in 2021.

'To be able to deliver the Scudetto to the Neapolitans is something we will never forget,' says Victor Osimhen

Napoli finally ended their long wait to win Italy's Serie A on Thursday after a 1-1 draw at Udinese secured their third league title with a record-equalling five games to play.

Thousands of fans in Udine, at the Stadio Maradona in Naples and all around southern Italy's biggest city exploded with joy at the final whistle as 33 years of waiting came to an end.

Supporters streamed onto the pitch at the Dacia Arena to celebrate after a season dominated by Luciano Spalletti's side, creating moments of tension with home fans not happy at such open partying on their ground.

Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal in the second half as Napoli's current stars came back from trailing to Sandi Lovric's opener at half-time and emulated the teams led by Diego Maradona which won the league in 1987 and 1990.

Spalletti and his squad will receive an emotional welcome when they return to Naples, where the partying is set to continue to until at least their next home fixture against Fiorentina on Sunday evening.

"Seeing Neapolitans happy is enough to give you a sense of that joy they are feeling," Spalletti told DAZN on the verge of tears.

"These people will look to this moment when life gets hard, they have every right to celebrate like this. You feel a bit more relaxed knowing that you've given them this moment of happiness."

It was appropriate that Osimhen was the man to take Napoli over the line as the Nigeria striker has had the best season of his career and been key to Napoli's historic charge to glory.

Osimhen's title-deciding strike was his 22nd goal in 28 league appearances and rightly caused bedlam among the massed ranks of away fans who took over Udine.

Napoli's 16-point lead over second-placed Lazio leaves them with a month-long parade between now and the end of the season which will allow their long-suffering supporters to fully unload more than a generation of frustration.

Osimhen seals deal 
 
Napoli were straight on the front foot but as on Sunday looked worryingly bereft of ideas in the final third, and the away side were stunned in the 13th minute following the first spell of play in Udinese's favour.

Lovric was given the freedom of the penalty area after being fed by Destiny Udogie, and the Slovenia midfielder took advantage by placing a lovely shot in the top corner.

Lovric stung the fingers of former Udine youth product Alex Meret in the Napoli goal just after the half-hour mark, by which point Napoli hadn't created a single goalscoring opportunity.

Seconds later Osimhen, who looked like Napoli's only hope of scoring in the opening period, headed a deep cross just the wrong side of the post.

And in the 52nd minute, the 24-year-old stepped up as so often he has this season to unleash a wave of relief and blue smoke from the stands with his 27th goal in all competitions.

Osimhen was on hand to ram home the leveller when, after a corner, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's low shot was blocked and fell to the clinical striker.

He had the ball in the net again in the 67th minute but was denied by referee Rosario Abisso who rightly whistled for a foul by Eljif Elmas.

But by that point the fans grew ever more sure that Thursday night would be the night, chanting victory songs in Udine while flares billowed and fireworks were set off at the other end of the country.

While fans had to be cleared from the pitch in Udine to avoid clashes with home supporters the Stadio Maradona was lit up by phones held by teary-eyed Neapolitans singing along to songs by late local singer-songwriter Pino Daniele. 
 
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Napoli finally ended their long wait to win Italy's Serie A on Thursday after a 1-1 draw at Udinese secured their third league title with a record-equalling five games to play.

Napoli finally ended their long wait to win Italy's Serie A on Thursday after a 1-1 draw at Udinese secured their third league title with a record-equalling five games to play. Thousands of fans in Udine, at the Stadio Maradona in Naples and all around southern Italy's biggest city exploded with joy at the final whistle as 33 years of waiting came to an end. Supporters streamed onto the pitch at the Dacia Arena to celebrate after a season dominated by Luciano Spalletti's side, creating moments of tension with home fans not happy at such open partying on their ground. Victor Osimhen scored the decisive goal in the second half as Napoli's current stars came back from trailing to Sandi Lovric's opener at half-time and emulated the teams led by Diego Maradona which won the league in 1987 and 1990. Spalletti and his squad will receive an emotional welcome when they return to Naples, where the partying is set to continue to until at least their next home fixture against Fiorentina on Sunday evening. "Seeing Neapolitans happy is enough to give you a sense of that joy they are feeling," Spalletti told DAZN on the verge of tears. "These people will look to this moment when life gets hard, they have every right to celebrate like this. You feel a bit more relaxed knowing that you've given them this moment of happiness." It was appropriate that Osimhen was the man to take Napoli over the line as the Nigeria striker has had the best season of his career and been key to Napoli's historic charge to glory. Osimhen's title-deciding strike was his 22nd goal in 28 league appearances and rightly caused bedlam among the massed ranks of away fans who took over Udine. Napoli's 16-point lead over second-placed Lazio leaves them with a month-long parade between now and the end of the season which will allow their long-suffering supporters to fully unload more than a generation of frustration. Osimhen seals deal Napoli were straight on the front foot but as on Sunday looked worryingly bereft of ideas in the final third, and the away side were stunned in the 13th minute following the first spell of play in Udinese's favour. Lovric was given the freedom of the penalty area after being fed by Destiny Udogie, and the Slovenia midfielder took advantage by placing a lovely shot in the top corner. Lovric stung the fingers of former Udine youth product Alex Meret in the Napoli goal just after the half-hour mark, by which point Napoli hadn't created a single goalscoring opportunity. Seconds later Osimhen, who looked like Napoli's only hope of scoring in the opening period, headed a deep cross just the wrong side of the post. And in the 52nd minute, the 24-year-old stepped up as so often he has this season to unleash a wave of relief and blue smoke from the stands with his 27th goal in all competitions. Osimhen was on hand to ram home the leveller when, after a corner, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's low shot was blocked and fell to the clinical striker. He had the ball in the net again in the 67th minute but was denied by referee Rosario Abisso who rightly whistled for a foul by Eljif Elmas. But by that point the fans grew ever more sure that Thursday night would be the night, chanting victory songs in Udine while flares billowed and fireworks were set off at the other end of the country. While fans had to be cleared from the pitch in Udine to avoid clashes with home supporters the Stadio Maradona was lit up by phones held by teary-eyed Neapolitans singing along to songs by late local singer-songwriter Pino Daniele. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Napoli end 33-year wait for Italy's Serie A title

As Naples painted in blue, Neapolitans waited for the weekend Serie A matches, hoping to celebrate their third Scudetto on Sunday (April 30).

Runaway Serie A leaders Napoli could seal their third Scudetto in record fashion this weekend if they beat lowly visitors Salernitana and second-placed Lazio drop points at Inter Milan.

Their clash with Salernitana was moved to Sunday from Saturday (April 29) for security reasons, authorities said late on Thursday (April 27).

Earlier in the day, eager fans watched the city gear up for a celebration it hasn't enjoyed since the Argentine soccer legend, Diego Armando Maradona, was at his peak more than 30 years ago.

"It is very emotional because we were in our twenties the last time we won the title," resident Giuseppe told Reuters as he showed a photo of the city decorated for celebrations of the second title 33 years ago.

As Neapolitans already celebrate the third Scudetto -- literally "shield" -- as the Italian league title is known, many see it as revenge on the wealthy northern cities of Turin and Milan, whose teams Juventus, Inter, and AC Milan have dominated Serie A for the past three decades.

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"We are living a big dream because our generation has been waiting for such success for years. Taking the title from the shirts of such a strong team (referring to AC Milan) and winning it here in the south, in Naples," a Naples resident Antonio said.

If Napoli wins the title, the first celebrations will take place in the Maradona stadium on Sunday, Italy's Ansa news agency reported, adding additional police forces will be deployed in the city to maintain security.

With the title inevitable for Napoli at some point in the season, it will see Italia with four different champions in four years. The Italian title was last defended in 2020 when Juventus won their ninth consecutive Scudetto.

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As Naples painted in blue, Neapolitans waited for the weekend Serie A matches, hoping to celebrate their third Scudetto on Sunday (April 30). Runaway Serie A leaders Napoli could seal their third Scudetto in record fashion this weekend if they beat lowly visitors Salernitana and second-placed Lazio drop points at Inter Milan.

As Naples painted in blue, Neapolitans waited for the weekend Serie A matches, hoping to celebrate their third Scudetto on Sunday (April 30). Runaway Serie A leaders Napoli could seal their third Scudetto in record fashion this weekend if they beat lowly visitors Salernitana and second-placed Lazio drop points at Inter Milan. Their clash with Salernitana was moved to Sunday from Saturday (April 29) for security reasons, authorities said late on Thursday (April 27). Earlier in the day, eager fans watched the city gear up for a celebration it hasn't enjoyed since the Argentine soccer legend, Diego Armando Maradona, was at his peak more than 30 years ago. "It is very emotional because we were in our twenties the last time we won the title," resident Giuseppe told Reuters as he showed a photo of the city decorated for celebrations of the second title 33 years ago. As Neapolitans already celebrate the third Scudetto -- literally "shield" -- as the Italian league title is known, many see it as revenge on the wealthy northern cities of Turin and Milan, whose teams Juventus, Inter, and AC Milan have dominated Serie A for the past three decades. ALSO READ | 'None have spoken up': Vinesh Phogat launches scathing attack on Indian cricketers amid wrestlers vs WFI row "We are living a big dream because our generation has been waiting for such success for years. Taking the title from the shirts of such a strong team (referring to AC Milan) and winning it here in the south, in Naples," a Naples resident Antonio said. If Napoli wins the title, the first celebrations will take place in the Maradona stadium on Sunday, Italy's Ansa news agency reported, adding additional police forces will be deployed in the city to maintain security. With the title inevitable for Napoli at some point in the season, it will see Italia with four different champions in four years. The Italian title was last defended in 2020 when Juventus won their ninth consecutive Scudetto. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Naples ready for Napoli's coronation as fans get ready for big celebration ahead of title clincher

The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24).

Lukaku was subjected to abuse during the first leg at Juventus "before, during, and after the penalty" he scored to earn Inter a 1-1 draw, the player's representatives said.

The police did not specify the length of the bans that the fans would face for the offence. They were identified using video footage from the stadium.

Inter fans also taunted their Juventus rivals during the game with chants referring to the 1985 Heysel stadium disaster, police added.

The police findings will be passed on to the soccer authorities for possible further action.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-makes-big-farewell-statement-after-win-vs-kkr-585540">IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR</a>

Lukaku will play in the return leg on Wednesday after his one-match ban was overturned by the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as a measure to fight racism.

Lukaku was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for his goal celebration during which he held his finger up to his mouth to silence Juventus fans.

Romelu Lukaku was seen in great touch over the weekend as his Inter Milan side beat Empoli 3-0 away from home as they try to keep their hopes of a top four finish alive. They currently along with city rivals Ac Milan sit out of the top four, but the two teams will go ahead over two legs in the Champions League semifinals next month.

If either side fails to finish in the top four, they could yet secure a place in the Champions League next season if they win the competition. The tie will be the second time AC Milan will have an all-Italian affair having faced Napoli in the quarterfinal that saw them win 2-1 on aggregate, while Inter got the better of Benfica in the other quarterfinal.

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The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24).

The Italian authorities will impose stadium bans on 171 Juventus fans found to have chanted racist abuse at Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku during a Coppa Italia semi-final earlier this month, police said on Monday (April 24). Lukaku was subjected to abuse during the first leg at Juventus "before, during, and after the penalty" he scored to earn Inter a 1-1 draw, the player's representatives said. The police did not specify the length of the bans that the fans would face for the offence. They were identified using video footage from the stadium. Inter fans also taunted their Juventus rivals during the game with chants referring to the 1985 Heysel stadium disaster, police added. The police findings will be passed on to the soccer authorities for possible further action. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: CSK skipper MS Dhoni makes big FAREWELL statement after win vs KKR Lukaku will play in the return leg on Wednesday after his one-match ban was overturned by the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) as a measure to fight racism. Lukaku was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for his goal celebration during which he held his finger up to his mouth to silence Juventus fans. Romelu Lukaku was seen in great touch over the weekend as his Inter Milan side beat Empoli 3-0 away from home as they try to keep their hopes of a top four finish alive. They currently along with city rivals Ac Milan sit out of the top four, but the two teams will go ahead over two legs in the Champions League semifinals next month. If either side fails to finish in the top four, they could yet secure a place in the Champions League next season if they win the competition. The tie will be the second time AC Milan will have an all-Italian affair having faced Napoli in the quarterfinal that saw them win 2-1 on aggregate, while Inter got the better of Benfica in the other quarterfinal. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: 171 Juventus fans to be barred for racist abuse of Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku

Romelu Lukaku shot Inter Milan to a 3-0 win over struggling Empoli on Sunday with his first Serie A goal&nbsp;from open play since the opening day of what has been a difficult return season in Italy.

Belgium striker Lukaku netted two fine low finishes in the second half at the Stadio Castellani to help Inter to their first win in Italy's top flight since early March and move them above AC Milan into fifth, two points from the last Champions League place currently held by Roma.

He struck his first from the edge of the area two minutes after the break following a quick exchange of passes with Marcelo Brozovic and doubled Inter's lead in the 76th minute by bursting past Ardian Ismajli and rifling home an angled drive.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-borussia-dortmund-beat-frankfurt-to-go-top-after-bayern-munich-knockout-in-mainz-585244">Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund beat Frankfurt to go top after Bayern Munich 'knockout' in Mainz</a>

The 29-year-old, who also laid on Lautaro Martinez's late goal, took his league tally since returning to Inter on loan from Chelsea to just five with Sunday's brace.

Lukaku has struggled with injuries for large chunks of the campaign, which started back in mid-August with a goal less than two minutes into Inter's opening fixture at Lecce.

"This season has been a very complicated one," Lukaku told Sky Sport.

"We're doing good work with the trainers... it's the first time that I've had such a serious injury, but now I feel more confident with those type of movements."

Inter beat Empoli with a changed line-up from the one which secured a Milan derby Champions League semi-final on Wednesday.

They are also in a battle with their local rivals for qualification to next year's edition of Europe's top club competition.

<h2>'A step forward'</h2>

Simone Inzaghi's side -- who have lost 11 times in Serie A this season -- began the day in sixth after Juventus were given back on Thursday the 15 points deducted from them in January for illicit transfer activity.

However Juve, who host runaway league leaders Napoli later on Sunday with a chance to go second following Lazio's home defeat by Torino on Saturday, have to await a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court to see if they will be handed a new points penalty.

Inter will host Juve in the second leg of their Italian Cup semi-final on Wednesday, a match which Lukaku will be allowed to play after his suspension for being sent off in the first leg was revoked.

On Saturday the FIGC removed the ban -- which had been initially upheld on appeal -- as Lukaku had been dismissed following goal celebrations in front of Juve fans who had racially abused him while he took the late penalty which levelled the tie at 1-1.

"I want to thank the president of the FIGC for giving me the opportunity to play that match," added Lukaku.

"That pardon is a step forward for Italian football, all I want to do now is rest and prepare for that match."

Empoli beat Inter at the San Siro earlier this season but offered very little in Tuscany, and Paolo Zanetti's side are now only six points above the relegation zone after one win in their last 11 matches.

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Romelu Lukaku shot Inter Milan to a 3-0 win over struggling Empoli on Sunday with his first Serie A goal from open play since the opening day of what has been a difficult return season in Italy.

Romelu Lukaku shot Inter Milan to a 3-0 win over struggling Empoli on Sunday with his first Serie A goal from open play since the opening day of what has been a difficult return season in Italy. Belgium striker Lukaku netted two fine low finishes in the second half at the Stadio Castellani to help Inter to their first win in Italy's top flight since early March and move them above AC Milan into fifth, two points from the last Champions League place currently held by Roma. He struck his first from the edge of the area two minutes after the break following a quick exchange of passes with Marcelo Brozovic and doubled Inter's lead in the 76th minute by bursting past Ardian Ismajli and rifling home an angled drive. Also Read: Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund beat Frankfurt to go top after Bayern Munich 'knockout' in Mainz The 29-year-old, who also laid on Lautaro Martinez's late goal, took his league tally since returning to Inter on loan from Chelsea to just five with Sunday's brace. Lukaku has struggled with injuries for large chunks of the campaign, which started back in mid-August with a goal less than two minutes into Inter's opening fixture at Lecce. "This season has been a very complicated one," Lukaku told Sky Sport. "We're doing good work with the trainers... it's the first time that I've had such a serious injury, but now I feel more confident with those type of movements." Inter beat Empoli with a changed line-up from the one which secured a Milan derby Champions League semi-final on Wednesday. They are also in a battle with their local rivals for qualification to next year's edition of Europe's top club competition. 'A step forward' Simone Inzaghi's side -- who have lost 11 times in Serie A this season -- began the day in sixth after Juventus were given back on Thursday the 15 points deducted from them in January for illicit transfer activity. However Juve, who host runaway league leaders Napoli later on Sunday with a chance to go second following Lazio's home defeat by Torino on Saturday, have to await a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court to see if they will be handed a new points penalty. Inter will host Juve in the second leg of their Italian Cup semi-final on Wednesday, a match which Lukaku will be allowed to play after his suspension for being sent off in the first leg was revoked. On Saturday the FIGC removed the ban -- which had been initially upheld on appeal -- as Lukaku had been dismissed following goal celebrations in front of Juve fans who had racially abused him while he took the late penalty which levelled the tie at 1-1. "I want to thank the president of the FIGC for giving me the opportunity to play that match," added Lukaku. "That pardon is a step forward for Italian football, all I want to do now is rest and prepare for that match." Empoli beat Inter at the San Siro earlier this season but offered very little in Tuscany, and Paolo Zanetti's side are now only six points above the relegation zone after one win in their last 11 matches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Serie A: Lukaku's two goals help Inter Milan get first win since early March

Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined.

The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment.

In a statement The Sports Guarantee Board asked the FIGC court to revise the punishments handed down to the club and some of its key figures, including former deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, who had been handed bans by the original ruling.

However the long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld.

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In January, Juve had been found guilty by the FIGC appeals court of having "systematically altered accounting documents... from at least the quarter ending March 31, 2019 to the quarter ending March 31, 2021".

The offences related to around 60 million euros ($65.7 million) of "phony capital gains" from transfers "aimed at making financial results look better than they were in reality", according to the appeals court.

Juve are 16 points behind league leaders Napoli, who they host in Turin on Sunday, while both AC Milan and Inter Milan have been knocked out of Serie A's Champions League places as a result of Thursday's ruling.

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Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined. The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment.

Juventus' 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity was revoked on Thursday after Italy's highest sporting court ruled that the case should be re-examined. The decision bumped the Turin giants up to third in Serie A on 59 points, but they will have to wait for a new ruling from the Italian Football Federation's (FIGC) appeals court, which inflicted the original punishment. In a statement The Sports Guarantee Board asked the FIGC court to revise the punishments handed down to the club and some of its key figures, including former deputy chairman Pavel Nedved, who had been handed bans by the original ruling. However the long bans given to former chairman Andrea Agnelli, ex-CEO Maurizio Arrivabene and sporting directors Federico Cherubini and Fabio Paratici were upheld. ALSO READ | Explained – Why India should look beyond Jasprit Bumrah for 2023 World Cup? In January, Juve had been found guilty by the FIGC appeals court of having "systematically altered accounting documents... from at least the quarter ending March 31, 2019 to the quarter ending March 31, 2021". The offences related to around 60 million euros ($65.7 million) of "phony capital gains" from transfers "aimed at making financial results look better than they were in reality", according to the appeals court. Juve are 16 points behind league leaders Napoli, who they host in Turin on Sunday, while both AC Milan and Inter Milan have been knocked out of Serie A's Champions League places as a result of Thursday's ruling. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Juventus' 15-point penalty revoked on appeal; jump to third spot in Serie A standings

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday.

Fans will be allowed in the lower tier of the Allianz Stadium's South Stand for Sunday night's clash with Serie A leaders Napoli after the decision by the FIGC's appeals court.

The FIGC did not say why Juve had won their appeal.

The section had been ordered shut for one match following racist chanting from what was described as "the majority of fans" stood there before and while Lukaku netted his stoppage time penalty.

It gave Inter a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the two sides' Italian Cup semi-final.

An incredulous Lukaku was then shown his second yellow card of the match and sent off for his celebrations in front of the home supporters, which were considered provocative despite the abuse he received.

Samir Handanovic and Juan Cuadrado were also dismissed following a blazing post-match row.

Juve's goalscorer on the night, Cuadrado was given a three-match ban for grabbing Handanovic by the neck and punching him, while the Inter goalkeeper was banned for one game for his role in the fight.

Juve are also awaiting on a decision on whether their appeal against a 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity will be upheld.

Italy's highest sporting court is examining the ruling handed down by the FIGC's appeals court in January.

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday.

Juventus have won their appeal against a one-match stand closure for their fans racially abusing Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) said on Wednesday. Fans will be allowed in the lower tier of the Allianz Stadium's South Stand for Sunday night's clash with Serie A leaders Napoli after the decision by the FIGC's appeals court. The FIGC did not say why Juve had won their appeal. The section had been ordered shut for one match following racist chanting from what was described as "the majority of fans" stood there before and while Lukaku netted his stoppage time penalty. It gave Inter a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the two sides' Italian Cup semi-final. An incredulous Lukaku was then shown his second yellow card of the match and sent off for his celebrations in front of the home supporters, which were considered provocative despite the abuse he received. Samir Handanovic and Juan Cuadrado were also dismissed following a blazing post-match row. Juve's goalscorer on the night, Cuadrado was given a three-match ban for grabbing Handanovic by the neck and punching him, while the Inter goalkeeper was banned for one game for his role in the fight. Juve are also awaiting on a decision on whether their appeal against a 15-point penalty for illicit transfer activity will be upheld. Italy's highest sporting court is examining the ruling handed down by the FIGC's appeals court in January.

Football: Italian Federation lifts stadium ban on Juventus for Romelu Lukaku racial abuse

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is currently engaged in a health battle, having been diagnosed with persistent leukaemia. He is admitted to Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital and updates have been gnarly in the last few days.

Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi is currently engaged in a health battle, having been diagnosed with persistent leukaemia. He is admitted to Milan’s San Raffaele Hospital and updates have been gnarly in the last few days. Sympathisers have flocked to the hospital to wish for his speedy recovery - or if it is the last hurrah, to pay their respects. Throughout his colourful life, Berlusconi has always bounced back. Having been at the centre of Rome's power corridor, not once but three times, most supporters and detractors believe that it is almost difficult to knock him out - for the 86-year-old billionaire, nicknamed Il Cavaliere (The Knight) always bounces back. Combining his shrewd business acumen with tactical political nuance, Berlusconi has managed to remain in the news cycle, year after year, despite last serving as the prime minister in 2011. ALSO READ | Former Italy prime minister Silvio Berlusconi diagnosed with leukaemia, battling lung infection His last years in power were often marred by allegations of sex and corruption scandals with infamous “bunga bunga” sex parties at the Arcore mansion taking the cake. Despite all the dirt thrown his way, only tax-fraud allegations have managed to stick and send him to prison. The genesis Born in 1936 to a middle-class family, Berlusconi's rise to power is a story that should inspire most, if it is not for his unconventional life choices. Currently the owner of broadcasting giant Mediaset, he first entered the world of media in 1973 by setting up a small cable television company called TeleMilano. The channel would later evolve into Canale 5 as Berlusconi bought two more channels before moving his operations to central Milan and broadcasting over the airwaves. This move would eventually pave way for his modern-day media mogul status as the owner of Mediaset which would also fuel his political aspirations. The political life of Berlusconi Berlusconi founded Italy's centre-right party Forza Italia in the summer of 1994 to beat the 'communists'. His party pioneered the populist brand of politics in the European country and propelled him to the higher echelons of the bureaucracy. WATCH | Italian Envoy: Will contribute to India's G20 Presidency success He won the 1994 general election by forging alliances, some not to his liking but necessary to gain the majority and managed to come to power by securing 21 per cent of the popular vote -- more than any other single party. However, his first stint as the prime minister was brief as fractures within the haphazardly stitched coalition with the rightwing National Alliance and Northern League widened and he had to vacate the position. In 2001, he returned to power and his government went on to become the longest-serving in Italy's history since the world war. At the pinnacle of his power, Berlusconi in 2006 declared himself "the Jesus Christ of politics". In 2008, he went on to taste success for the third time and became the PM for another term. However, over the next three years, he faced over 50 votes of confidence. In 2009, Patrizia D'Addario, a prostitute went on national Tv and claimed that the PM slept with him knowing her profession. What followed was an unravelling as allegations of 'bunga-bunga' sex parties smeared his name. In 2011, he stepped down as the PM. However, to this day, he leads his party and is an elected senator. The story behind his status as a present-day senator is another example of his tenacity to grind out results. After Senate expelled him due to a tax fraud conviction in 2013, many thought it was the end of the road for Berlusconi as he was banned from holding public office for six years. However, after serving a sentence of community service, a court ruled he could once again hold public office and he won a seat in the European Parliament in 2019. The sporting interests of Berlusconi Apart from his obvious interests, Berlusconi is known for his sporting taste. He owned the decorated Seria A club AC Milan for over three decades before selling it to Chinese investors for $858 million in 2017. After selling his prized team, Berlusconi went on to buy small Lombardy side AC Monza for an estimated $3.4 million and since then, through his holding company Fininvest, he has poured over $76 million into the club. The result? AC Monza has climbed from the third tier of Italian football to Seria A within a five-year timespan - a feat that most 'Football Manager' players may not be able to achieve. Recently, Berlusconi made media waves after he openly criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy - thereby drawing a sharp response from Kyiv of being a Putin propaganda soldier. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

From serving as PM thrice to hosting 'bunga-bunga' parties - the controversial life of Silvio Berlusconi

Romelu Lukaku netted a last-gasp leveller in Inter Milan's dramatic 1-1 draw at Juventus on Tuesday which left their Italian Cup semi-final all square after the first leg.

Belgium striker Lukaku rolled in from the penalty spot deep in stoppage time to keep both teams level ahead of the second leg in Milan later this month, before then being sent off following his celebrations in front of the home fans.

Lukaku, who was already on a booking for a late foul on Federico Gatti, put his finger in front of his mouth and told the crowd to "shut up" as his joyous teammates swamped him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-announce-switzerland-as-hosts-for-womens-euro-2025-to-stage-first-major-tournament-since-2008-579146">UEFA announce Switzerland as hosts for women's Euro 2025, to stage first major tournament since 2008</a>

Reports that the 29-year-old had been racially abused by some home supporters as he prepared to take his penalty were not confirmed by either Inter coach Simone Inzaghi or his Juve counterpart Massimiliano Allegri.

Juan Cuadrado thought he had given Juventus a lead to take to the San Siro in the 83rd minute of an intense match between bitter rivals in Turin which featured few goalscoring chances and ended with both teams at each other's throats.

Cuadrado and Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic were both sent off following the final whistle after a scuffle which continued as the teams went into the tunnel at the Allianz Stadium.

"What happened was that Lukaku's celebrations were misunderstood, as he always celebrates like that," said Inzaghi to Mediaset.

"We were on top without being able to score, but I can't criticise my players, it was a good performance."

Lukaku's spot-kick is good news for Inzaghi who is under pressure after a poor run of results which has led to them dropping to fourth in Serie A.

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Angel Di Maria was unlucky not to put Juve ahead just after kick-off with a low drive which was brilliantly tipped away by Mattia Perin.

Inter grew into the game and were probably the better team after the break, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan dragging a great chance a whisker wide in the 64th minute after a spell of pressure from the away side.

Juve should however have taken the lead in the 77th minute when Arkadiusz Milik somehow failed to poke home Cuadrado's mishit shot with the goal at his mercy.

Cuadrado then found what he thought was the decisive goal when he collected Adrien Rabiot's diverted cross&nbsp;and finished well past Handanovic before doing a victory jig on the sidelines.

But then Gleison Bremer gift-wrapped a chance for Lukaku to score his sixth goal of a troubled season at Inter with a silly handball, after which all hell broke loose.

"I don't know what happened, I went into the tunnel after the final whistle," said Allegri.

"It's nothing, just a bit of chaos at the end of an even game."

On Wednesday struggling Cremonese try to secure what would be a shock cup final spot when they host in-form Fiorentina.

Romelu Lukaku netted a last-gasp leveller in Inter Milan's dramatic 1-1 draw at Juventus on Tuesday which left their Italian Cup semi-final all square after the first leg.

Romelu Lukaku netted a last-gasp leveller in Inter Milan's dramatic 1-1 draw at Juventus on Tuesday which left their Italian Cup semi-final all square after the first leg. Belgium striker Lukaku rolled in from the penalty spot deep in stoppage time to keep both teams level ahead of the second leg in Milan later this month, before then being sent off following his celebrations in front of the home fans. Lukaku, who was already on a booking for a late foul on Federico Gatti, put his finger in front of his mouth and told the crowd to "shut up" as his joyous teammates swamped him. Also Read: UEFA announce Switzerland as hosts for women's Euro 2025, to stage first major tournament since 2008 Reports that the 29-year-old had been racially abused by some home supporters as he prepared to take his penalty were not confirmed by either Inter coach Simone Inzaghi or his Juve counterpart Massimiliano Allegri. Juan Cuadrado thought he had given Juventus a lead to take to the San Siro in the 83rd minute of an intense match between bitter rivals in Turin which featured few goalscoring chances and ended with both teams at each other's throats. Cuadrado and Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic were both sent off following the final whistle after a scuffle which continued as the teams went into the tunnel at the Allianz Stadium. "What happened was that Lukaku's celebrations were misunderstood, as he always celebrates like that," said Inzaghi to Mediaset. "We were on top without being able to score, but I can't criticise my players, it was a good performance." Lukaku's spot-kick is good news for Inzaghi who is under pressure after a poor run of results which has led to them dropping to fourth in Serie A. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. Angel Di Maria was unlucky not to put Juve ahead just after kick-off with a low drive which was brilliantly tipped away by Mattia Perin. Inter grew into the game and were probably the better team after the break, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan dragging a great chance a whisker wide in the 64th minute after a spell of pressure from the away side. Juve should however have taken the lead in the 77th minute when Arkadiusz Milik somehow failed to poke home Cuadrado's mishit shot with the goal at his mercy. Cuadrado then found what he thought was the decisive goal when he collected Adrien Rabiot's diverted cross and finished well past Handanovic before doing a victory jig on the sidelines. But then Gleison Bremer gift-wrapped a chance for Lukaku to score his sixth goal of a troubled season at Inter with a silly handball, after which all hell broke loose. "I don't know what happened, I went into the tunnel after the final whistle," said Allegri. "It's nothing, just a bit of chaos at the end of an even game." On Wednesday struggling Cremonese try to secure what would be a shock cup final spot when they host in-form Fiorentina.

Lukaku scores leveller late in game as Inter hold off Juventus to 1-1 in Coppa Italia

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