Front pages of Italian national and local newspapers today largely feature the Club World Cup, specifically focusing on Inter Milan`s unexpected elimination at the hands of Fluminense. Goals scored by Cano very early in the game and Hercules during added time in the second half sealed the defeat for Chivu`s squad, forcing them out of the competition in the Round of 16. The match saw Inter play poorly for much of its duration, only managing to show signs of challenging in the final 20 minutes before conceding the goal that decided the outcome.
Later this evening, the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami will host the other Round of 16 match involving an Italian team: the clash between Juventus and Real Madrid. A spot in the quarter-finals is on the line, with the winner set to face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey. Juventus coach Igor Tudor will be without Federico Gatti due to illness, meaning Daniele Rugani is expected to start. For Real Madrid, there`s anticipation around Kylian Mbappé potentially making his debut in the tournament.
Meanwhile, yesterday marked the official opening of the football transfer market. Fiorentina is entering a critical two-week period concerning the activation of Moise Kean`s release clause. AS Roma is reportedly preparing to transfer Tammy Abraham to Turkish club Besiktas. Como fans have reason to be pleased as young talent Nico Paz will remain with the club for the upcoming season. Atalanta has completed a double acquisition, signing Hamed Traorè Sulemana from Southampton and Kelvin Ahanor from Genoa.
