Serie A 2025/26 Season Preview – New Stars, Big Transfers and the Battle for the Scudetto

Serie A Returns With High Expectations

After the Premier League and La Liga resumed last weekend, it is now finally time for Italian football to take center stage. Serie A is back, and expectations could hardly be higher. Napoli enter the new campaign as reigning champions, determined to defend their title under Antonio Conte. Inter, meanwhile, are desperate for redemption after narrowly missing out on the Scudetto and suffering a humiliating Champions League final defeat to PSG.

Atalanta secured a respectable third place last season, while Juventus managed to recover from a poor start and ultimately clinched fourth spot, ensuring Champions League football for the Old Lady this autumn. AC Milan, on the other hand, endured a disastrous campaign and could only finish eighth. The disappointing result led to a manager change in the summer, with Max Allegri returning to lead the Rossoneri – a storyline that will be fascinating to follow as the season unfolds.

Global Superstars Land in Italy

One of the biggest stories of the summer is Kevin De Bruyne’s move to Napoli. The Belgian midfielder, who has been one of the defining figures of the Premier League era with Manchester City, arrives in Naples with the clear ambition of helping Conte defend the Scudetto. His vision, passing and leadership bring a new dimension to an already strong side.

Another headline arrival is Luka Modric, who after a legendary spell at Real Madrid has chosen to spend the twilight of his career in Serie A with AC Milan. At 40 years old, there are questions about how much he has left to give, but in the slightly slower rhythm of Italian football, Modric may still have the opportunity to showcase his trademark elegance and intelligence on the ball.

Transfers Reshaping the League

While Serie A does not operate on the same financial scale as the Premier League, several high-profile transfers have still shaped the landscape of the league this summer. AC Milan invested heavily in Ardon Jashari, whose €32 million transfer represents the biggest fee of the window. Juventus secured Francisco Conceição from Porto for €28 million, while Napoli reinforced their defence with Sam Beukema for the same amount.

What makes Serie A unique, however, is the ability of its sporting directors to find value. Juventus’ capture of Jonathan David on a free transfer from Lille is a prime example. The Canadian striker, who would likely have cost around €45 million under contract, could prove to be one of the bargains of the summer.

Italian Talents and New Challenges

It is not only the international stars who will draw attention. Two Italian midfielders are also embarking on important new chapters in their careers. Nicolo Rovella, who impressed on loan at Lazio last season, made his permanent move to the capital for €17 million. Samuele Ricci, after developing into one of Torino’s most promising players, has now joined AC Milan at the age of 24, where he will look to make the step up to Champions League level.

The International Influence Grows

Scott McTominay’s success at Napoli last season has opened the door for more talent from the British Isles. Roma have brought in Evan Ferguson from Brighton on a season-long loan. At just 20 years old, Ferguson carries both enormous potential and significant risk, as injuries have slowed his progress in recent years. If he can stay fit, however, he could become one of the breakout stars of Serie A.

Napoli also strengthened their attack with the signing of Noa Lang from PSV. The Dutch winger, who previously played for both Ajax and Club Brugge, arrives with impressive numbers from the Eredivisie. His creativity and direct style make him one of the most exciting new attacking options in Italy this season.

A Season Full of Storylines

The Serie A 2025/26 season promises drama, quality and unpredictability. From Napoli’s attempt to defend their crown and Inter’s hunger for revenge, to the returns of Allegri and Modric, the narratives are already rich before a ball has even been kicked. Add in rising Italian stars and international newcomers eager to make their mark, and this campaign has all the ingredients to become one of the most captivating in recent years.

Serie A is back – and for football fans around the world, it is time to buckle up for another season of passion, rivalry and unforgettable moments.

Top 10 Transfers to Watch in Serie A 2025/26

1. 1. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City → Napoli)
2. 2. Luka Modric (Real Madrid → AC Milan)
3. 3. Ardon Jashari (Club Brugge → AC Milan)
4. 4. Francisco Conceição (Porto → Juventus)
5. 5. Sam Beukema (Bologna → Napoli)
6. 6. Jonathan David (Lille → Juventus)
7. 7. Nicolo Rovella (Juventus → Lazio)
8. 8. Samuele Ricci (Torino → AC Milan)
9. 9. Evan Ferguson (Brighton → Roma, loan)
10. 10. Noa Lang (PSV → Napoli)