Maresca to referee Roma–Lazio derby; first Stadio Olimpico assignment of the season

Ivan Juric has been confirmed as Monza's new head coach from 1 July 2026, following the club's promotion to Serie A via the play-offs. The Croatian tactician arrives after stints with Atalanta, Southampton, and Roma, where his tenures were described as disappointing. Monza will visit the Olimpico to face Roma on the weekend of 28–29 November in Serie A matchday 13, marking Juric's return to the stadium. Juric's appointment carries direct significance for Roma, as he previously managed the Giallorossi. His track record includes spells at Genoa, Hellas Verona, and Torino before joining Roma. At Atalanta, he made his Champions League debut with the club, appearing in four matches before his dismissal in November 2025. The timing of his move to Monza ensures an early encounter between his new side and his former employer in the league campaign. Born in Split on 25 August 1975, Juric began his managerial career in Serie C with Mantova in 2014–15, then achieved promotion to Serie A with Crotone in his first Serie B season. He is described as a coach of significant charisma and experience, capable of bringing intensity and an aggressive, enterprising style of play to his teams.

Serie A has announced the fixture list for the first five rounds of the 2026–27 season, with Roma set to begin their campaign on a Monday. The article reviews Roma's previous Monday season openers, examining a mix of victories, defeats, and notable incidents including a 3–0 walkover decision. Monday starts carry varied historical significance for the Giallorossi across their recent Serie A campaigns. The fixture scheduling marks the beginning of Roma's push under their new management structure heading into the new season.

Inter have been forced to reassess their transfer strategy after failing to land Marco Palestra, who was their sole focus as a replacement for Denzel Dumfries. The Nerazzurri are now revisiting previously considered options to address the position. Among their alternatives are Dan Ndoye, who impressed during his time at Bologna, and Andrea Cambiaso from Juventus, who could become available for €35–40 million. Dodo is also back on Inter's radar due to his expiring contract, though Roma and Napoli are monitoring the situation. Inter have expressed strong interest in Wesley, currently at Roma, though he is considered a core player for the Giallorossi and unlikely to depart. Brooke Norton-Cuffy was previously identified as a backup option when Dumfries appeared headed to Liverpool in January. The criticism centres on Inter's transfer strategy: concentrating entirely on one target has left them vulnerable. Among the available options, Ndoye is regarded as the most talented but also likely the most expensive. Cambiaso could offer a fresh start but has limited experience on the right flank. Dodo represents a safer, though lower-ceiling, alternative. The prevailing view suggests Inter should have acted more decisively earlier in the window.