Serie A 2025-26: Sacchi Picks Napoli for Scudetto as Juventus, Milan, and Inter Shape Their Squads

As the 2025-26 Serie A season gathers momentum following the summer transfer window's close, legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi has surrounded Napoli with a clear aura of favoritism for the Scudetto. In an extensive interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Sacchi praised the reigning champions’ summer moves, particularly heralding their acquisition of Kevin De Bruyne, labeling him a "phenomenon" and "a serious professional and a leader." He stated unequivocally, "I’m not a fortune teller by trade, but I’ll go out of my way and say Napoli."

Sacchi's endorsement extends beyond just the marquee signing. He lauded Napoli's overall squad reinforcement as the best business in the league, adding, "They’ve signed players who fit the way the coach wants to play. That’s how it should be done." However, he did express caution regarding Napoli's double commitment to Serie A and the Champions League, noting, "International matches are like leeches: They suck the blood out of you, you lack energy in your legs and in your mind." Despite backing Napoli for the title, Sacchi predicts the league's Capocannoniere may emerge from Fiorentina, putting his money on Moise Kean "as long as Fiorentina play to his strengths and he makes himself available."

Meanwhile, Juventus is focusing on internal squad consolidation with a high priority on extending the contract of promising Turkish talent Kenan Yildiz until 2030, with an option for 2031. The club aims to significantly increase Yildiz’s salary to reflect his growing importance, potentially nearing €5 million annually including bonuses. Juventus manager's striker preferences recently came under the spotlight as Sacchi opined in favor of Dusan Vlahovic among the trio of strikers Jonathan David, Lois Openda, and Vlahovic available to coach Tudor, citing his Serie A experience and desire to prove his worth.

Milan has received encouraging medical updates regarding their key forward Rafa Leão, sidelined with a calf injury since mid-August. According to reports from Milanello, Leão’s rehabilitation is progressing well with an anticipated return to group training next week, a boost for the Rossoneri as they prepare for upcoming fixtures.

Inter Milan’s new signing Manuel Akanji provided insights on his decision to join the Nerazzurri, reflecting on prior transfer pursuits and his desire to compete at the highest European level. From the Swiss national team camp, Akanji said, "I wanted to keep playing at the highest European level, and with Inter I definitely achieved that." He recalled his memorable Dortmund appearance at San Siro and expressed excitement to integrate fully with Inter’s squad.

Napoli’s commitment to youth was underscored by their decision to reject a recent offer from Ajax for Giuseppe Ambrosino, who impressed during his loan at Frosinone last season and made his Serie A debut with Napoli recently. Head coach Antonio Conte appreciates the striker’s potential and has initiated contract renewal discussions to secure his future at the club.

Across Rome, Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini dispelled rumors of discord with sporting director Frederic Massara, affirming a solid working relationship despite frustrations over unmet transfer targets such as the sought-after left winger. Lazio also stood firm in keeping striker Valentín "Taty" Castellanos, who shone with two assists and a goal recently. Flamengo’s substantial €25 million bid was turned down with Lazio valuing the player at no less than €40 million, signaling the Argentine’s key role in the club’s plans.

Fiorentina grappled with last-minute transfer complications as attempts to offload Amir Richardson and Abdelhamid Sabiri collapsed due to player refusals of proposed destinations. While both remain registered for Serie A and UEFA competitions, their futures remain open with potential moves abroad under consideration.

Off the pitch, Denmark national manager Brian Riemer praised Rasmus Hojlund’s summer move from Manchester United back to Serie A with Napoli. Riemer believes the league’s playing style suits Hojlund’s qualities better than the Premier League. "I expect him to reach the level he showed when he was last in Serie A," said Riemer, highlighting Napoli's stable environment as key to the striker’s resurgence.

Meanwhile, Serie C continues to showcase competitive Italian football beneath the top tiers, with recent results shaking up the standings. Pro Vercelli and Arzignano lead the table early on, while traditional clubs like Vicenza and Lecco accumulate points. Matches such as Cittadella’s narrow victory over Alcione and Trento’s defeat at home to Union Brescia highlight the intense battles battling for promotion and survival in Italy’s third tier.

With Serie A clubs settling their rosters and ambitions clear, the 2025-26 campaign promises tactical battles, evolving narratives, and rising stars, set against a vibrant backdrop of Italian football at all levels.