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• Gianni Rivera concerned by cultural death in AC Milan amid Azzuri absence

  AC Milan legend Gianni Rivera has criticized the club’s transition away from its Italian identity, noting the lack of Rossoneri representation in Gennaro Gattuso’s national team. ​AC Milan icon Gianni Rivera has expressed deep concern over the club’s dwindling Italian core following Italy’s latest squad announcement. Speaking before a vital World Cup play-off, the former Ballon d’Or winner highlighted that the Rossoneri no longer boast the domestic backbone that once defined their success. Rivera noted, “Even the president [owner, Cardinale] is a foreigner,” lamenting a shift toward international recruitment policies. ​The legendary playmaker argued that reliance on agents and foreign talent has stifled the development of future Italian champions. Reflecting on his own career, Rivera recalled making his debut alongside six Milan teammates, a stark contrast to today’s selection. He criticized modern clubs, stating, “Our football no longer creates champions,” while urging a return to the systems that once produced icons like Maldini.

• Atletico Madrid add Inter defender to summer transfer shortlist

  Atletico Madrid have identified Inter Milan defender Carlos Augusto as a primary summer transfer target to address ongoing concerns at the left-back position ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

  ​Atletico Madrid are reportedly eyeing a move for Inter’s Carlos Augusto as Diego Simeone looks to strengthen his defensive flanks.

  With Javi Galan departing for Osasuna in January and Matteo Ruggeri experiencing a mixed debut season, the Brazilian-born defender has emerged as a key candidate.

  Augusto’s possession of an Italian passport is a significant advantage, as he would not occupy a non-EU squad spot.

  ​The 27-year-old currently serves as a backup to Federico Dimarco at the San Siro and is reportedly open to a move to secure a starting role.

  With only two years remaining on his Inter deal and “no desire to renew,” the Italian club may look to cash in this summer.

  Atletico could secure the defender for a reduced price as they continue their squad overhaul.

• Inter willing to include two Barcelona players in Alessandro Bastoni deal

  Inter Milan are reportedly willing to accept a player-plus-cash arrangement for Alessandro Bastoni, with Barcelona forwards Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo emerging as potential inclusions in the summer transfer.

  ​Barcelona have identified Alessandro Bastoni as their primary defensive target, with Inter Milan showing increased flexibility regarding a potential transfer.

  The Italian giants are reportedly open to a deal involving players to lower the cash expenditure.

  Ferran Torres is considered the most likely candidate for a move to the San Siro, as Hansi Flick seeks to restructure his squad for the upcoming season.

  ​While Dani Olmo is also of interest to the Nerazzurri, the La Liga leaders are expected to resist his departure.

  Utilizing Torres in negotiations could allow Barcelona to preserve vital funds for a top-level striker.

  For now, it remains to be seen how talks play out when both clubs meet, while the Catalans continue working to finalize personal terms with the 26-year-old defender.

• Gennaro Gattuso drops five stars in Italy squad to face Northern Ireland in WC playoff

  Gennaro Gattuso has finalized his matchday squad for tonight’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland, notably omitting Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso and the injured Gianluca Scamacca.

  ​Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso has dropped five players ahead of tonight’s high-stakes World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.

  Atalanta striker Gianluca Scamacca misses out due to injury, while Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso is a surprise tactical omission.

  Also cut from the final list are goalkeeper Elia Caprile, defender Diego Coppola, and winger Nicolò Cambiaghi, as the Azzurri fight to secure their place in the 2026 tournament.

  ​The squad features a first senior call-up for 21-year-old Marco Palestra, who provides cover on the right flank in Cambiaso’s absence.

  Following Federico Chiesa’s earlier withdrawal, the pressure shifts to the remaining attackers, including Retegui and Kean.

  Notably, the final selection contains zero AC Milan players, a point of contention among fans as Italy enters this critical knockout stage under Gattuso’s leadership at the Coverciano training base.

• Lukaku faces fine and bench role after infuriating Napoli and Conte

  Romelu Lukaku has sparked fury at Napoli after refusing to return to Italy following his withdrawal from the Belgian national team, leading to imminent disciplinary action and concerns over his playing time.

  ​Romelu Lukaku faces a hefty fine after remaining in Antwerp without Napoli’s approval.

  The 32-year-old striker was expected at the club’s training centre today but has reportedly opted to continue his recovery at a private clinic instead.

  This decision has “infuriated” both the club hierarchy and coach Antonio Conte. Discussions are ongoing, but the Belgian seems unwilling to return to Naples before next week.

  ​The fallout threatens Lukaku’s role for the remainder of the season. After a severe muscle injury limited him to just 60 minutes of action this term, this breach of internal rules creates an “uphill climb” for consistent minutes.

  With his lack of match fitness and current disciplinary issues, Sky Sport Italia suggests his spot in Belgium’s upcoming World Cup squad could now be in serious jeopardy.