The 2022-23 Serie A campaign is underway, and fans of Italian football are licking their lips at the drama that awaits us throughout the season. The first round of fixtures gave us plenty to sink our teeth into, and there’s no denying that this campaign promises to be chock-full of interesting stories.
With so much to look forward to in Italy this season, and the World Cup providing an interesting break in proceedings in November and December, let’s take a look at why this Serie A season has all the makings of a true classic that is bound to attract the interest of those who enjoy a football accumulator.
AC Milan’s title defence
AC Milan’s sensational title win last season was a true statement that this is a club back in the big time. Years of mediocrity had crippled Milan, but having come out on top in an exciting title race, they’ll be confident of getting their hands on the trophy once again.
It will be interesting to see how their title defence pans outs, and how the players cope with the pressure of being the champions. Often we see a team endure a slump after enjoying sudden success like Milan have, and Stefano Pioli will be doing everything he can to ensure Milan are ready for the fight.
Inter on the charge
Seeking to regain the Scudetto are Inter Milan, who will be confident of causing a stir this season after bringing Romelu Lukaku back to the San Siro on a loan deal from Chelsea. The Belgian played a huge part in Inter’s 2020-21 title-winning campaign before his £100 million move, and if he can hit the ground running and rediscover his best form, Simeone Inzaghi’s side will take some stopping.
Juventus seeking redemption
It’s been a difficult few seasons for Juventus, but with talented coach Massimiliano Allegri back in the hotseat, there is every chance that the Old Lady can rise again and reassert their dominance in the Italian top flight.
Juventus have brought Paul Pogba back to the club as well as signing Ángel Di María from Paris Saint-Germain, and there are still rumours circulating that Cristiano Ronaldo could yet return to Turin before the summer transfer window closes.
Napoli’s transitional period
Napoli are a team who are always there or thereabouts at the top end of the Serie A table, though they haven’t got their hands on the Scudetto since 1990. Indeed, Luciano Spaletti’s side are undergoing a period of transition this season, with plenty of familiar faces leaving Naples over the course of the summer.
It’s a young, fresh side taking to the field, but you’d still expect Napoli to be a dominant force throughout this Serie A campaign.
Mourinho working his magic
Having won the inaugural Europa Conference League last season, Roma are riding the crest of a wave under José Mourinho. You only needed to see the unveiling of Paulo Dybala as a Roma player this summer to see just how passionate the fans are about their club again.
Mourinho has played down talk that Roma could challenge for the title, but there’s no doubt that the fire is burning strong within the Portuguese coach as he gears up for a hugely promising campaign.
