Serie A 2026/27: A season-opening full of new features and challenges

Italian football is preparing to turn the spotlight back on the Serie A championship, which officially begins on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with the matches Inter vs. Monza and Udinese vs. Como. This season promises to be a transformative one, not only due to changes at the top of the Italian Football Federation (FIF), with Giovanni Malagò as its new president, but also due to profound changes to the calendar, which will introduce an extended break for national teams between September and October.

Inter once again start as favorites after dominating last season. The Nerazzurri strengthened their defense with the arrival of John Stones from Manchester City on a free transfer and retained key attacking players like Lautaro Martínez and Thuram. Despite some experienced departures, the squad appears well-structured to compete in both the league and the Champions League.

Behind Inter, the competition is heating up. AC Milan have undergone a real revolution after failing to qualify for the Champions League, entrusting themselves to coach Amorim, who, however, needs time to build a solid squad. Rafael Leão's situation remains an unresolved issue, which could affect the team's balance.

Juventus, on the other hand, appears more compact, with Spalletti leading a well-coordinated group, especially in midfield, while awaiting a significant reinforcement in attack like Zirzkee. Napoli, without Lukaku, are banking on the experience of Max Allegri to relaunch themselves after a disappointing season, while Gasperini's Roma, despite a slow transfer window, are showing signs of offensive solidity.

All eyes are also on Como, who have grown in ambition after qualifying for the Champions League, as well as Fiorentina, who have been hailed as the real stars of the summer transfer window, and Atalanta, who are embarking on a new era under Maurizio Sarri.

The 2026/27 season will feature a unique calendar structure: the first five matchdays will be played consecutively, followed by a long break lasting nearly a month, from September 21st to October 11th, due to the merging of the national rounds. This factor will be crucial for athletic preparation and maintaining the pace of play, marking a significant innovation.

Matchday 1 will feature highly tactical and competitive matches, including Roma vs. Fiorentina and Torino vs. Milan, promising an intense and exciting start to a season that promises to be challenging and full of surprises.