AC Milan and Juventus excluded from Champions League after dramatic Serie A finale
Inter and Napoli join AS Roma and Como in securing European spots, while speculation mounts over future leadership at Milan
AC Milan and Juventus have failed to secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League following the conclusion of the 2025–26 Serie A season. The final day of the campaign produced one of the most unexpected outcomes in recent Italian football history, with both traditional powerhouses missing out on the continent’s premier club competition.
AC Milan suffered a 2-1 defeat to Cagliari, while Juventus drew 2-2 with Torino. These results meant that AS Roma and Como secured their places in the Champions League alongside Inter and Napoli. The outcome represents a significant shift in the competitive landscape, with Como achieving European qualification for the first time in the club’s history.
Como’s historic achievement was overseen by Spanish manager Cesc Fabregas. The club’s ascent to European competition marks a notable milestone for the side, distinguishing them from the established giants who fell short on the final day.
For AC Milan, the failure to qualify follows a season where the club placed its trust in returning manager Massimiliano Allegri. Allegri was unable to guide the Rossoneri back to the Champions League in his first season in charge. Meanwhile, Juventus underwent a managerial change during the 2025–26 campaign but could not alter their trajectory to secure a top-four finish.
The exclusion of key players such as Christian Pulisic from AC Milan and Weston McKennie from Juventus adds to the strategic challenges facing both clubs. Speculation is already growing regarding significant changes to AC Milan’s management structure and playing squad in the coming weeks, as the club reflects on a season that ended without European football.
