Serie A 2025-26 Power Rankings: Napoli to win again, AC Milan return to the Champions League, Como to surprise

The 2025-26 Serie A season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with several top teams making significant changes in coaching staff and player roster. The defending champions, Napoli, are once again favored to win the Scudetto under the leadership of Antonio Conte. Conte made the decision to stay at Napoli despite interest from Juventus, and the team has significantly strengthened their squad with the addition of players like Kevin de Bruyne, Noa Lang, Sam Beukema, Lorenzo Lucca, and Vanja Milinkovic-Savic.

Inter, on the other hand, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing end to the previous season, where they were thrashed 5-0 in the Champions League final by PSG. The appointment of Cristian Chivu as head coach raises questions about the team’s ability to compete at the highest level, as Chivu has limited Serie A coaching experience. However, Inter still boast a strong and competitive roster that could potentially challenge for the title.

AC Milan, under the guidance of Massimiliano Allegri, are another team to watch this season. The Rossoneri have undergone a period of rebuilding, selling key players like Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez, but Allegri’s experience and tactical acumen could see them mount a serious title challenge.

Elsewhere in the league, teams like Bologna, Lazio, and Fiorentina have also made significant coaching changes, with Vincenzo Italiano, Maurizio Sarri, and Stefano Pioli returning to their respective clubs. The Serie A power rankings ahead of the new season are sure to see some major shifts as these new coaching appointments take effect and teams begin to find their rhythm.

With so much talent and experience at the helm of these top Serie A clubs, the 2025-26 season promises to be a thrilling and closely contested race for the Scudetto. Fans can expect plenty of drama, excitement, and surprises as the league unfolds over the coming months.

After leading AC Milan to their Scudetto triumph in the 2010-11 season, Max Allegri has returned to the club with hopes of positioning the team for success once again. The Rossoneri have been in a rebuilding phase, and Allegri’s return brings a sense of stability and experience to the team.

One of the key aspects of Allegri’s return is the focus on securing a Champions League qualification for the upcoming season. With the likes of USMNT star Christian Pulisic and seasoned midfielder Luka Modric in the squad, Allegri has a strong foundation to build upon. Pulisic’s creativity and flair on the wings, combined with Modric’s vision and passing ability in midfield, provide AC Milan with a potent attacking force that can unlock defenses.

Allegri’s tactical acumen and man-management skills will be crucial in getting the best out of his players and setting up the team for success in both domestic and European competitions. With a blend of young talent and experienced veterans, AC Milan under Allegri’s guidance is poised to make a strong push for a top-four finish in Serie A and secure a spot in the prestigious Champions League.

As Allegri works to instill his winning mentality and tactical philosophy within the team, AC Milan fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive season ahead. With the right mix of talent, experience, and coaching expertise, Allegri’s return to the club bodes well for the Rossoneri’s ambitions of reclaiming their status as one of Italy’s top clubs and competing against the best in Europe.

Overall, Allegri’s return to AC Milan signals a new era of hope and optimism for the club, with Champions League qualification firmly in their sights. With the support of the fans and the determination of the players, Allegri’s leadership could be the key to unlocking success for AC Milan in the upcoming season.

Despite the arrival of a new experienced manager like former Lazio boss Marco Baroni, there isn’t much expectation for a significant change in Udinese’s performance this season. The team had a relatively quiet season under the guidance of Kosta Runjaic last year, and they will need to maintain this consistency. However, the departure of main striker Lorenzo Lucca to Napoli could pose a challenge for them.

Genoa finds themselves in a similar situation to Udinese and Torino, starting a new cycle last year under Patrick Vieira’s management. It may be too early for them to aim for a spot in European tournaments, but they are looking to build a solid foundation for the future.

As we move into the fight to avoid relegation, Parma made a bold move by appointing the youngest manager in Serie A history, Carlos Cuesta, as their new head coach. It remains to be seen how the 29-year-old will fare in his first professional managerial role. Cagliari, on the other hand, promoted former U19 manager Fabio Pisacane to lead the team, showcasing their trust in internal talent.

Sassuolo returns to Serie A after a brief stint in the second division and is expected to maintain their position in the top flight with their financial backing. Hellas Verona managed to stay in the league despite financial struggles, but a recent acquisition by an American fund brings hope for stability in the club’s future.

Cremonese, with new coach Davide Nicola at the helm, faces a tough task of avoiding relegation and will need to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes. Lecce, under new coach Eusebio Di Francesco, faces a challenging season ahead, with key players possibly leaving before the deadline, putting their top-flight status at risk.

Lastly, newly-promoted Pisa faces an uphill battle in Serie A after over 30 years, and they will need to bolster their squad with experienced players to compete with their rivals. Overall, while some teams are expected to struggle this season, the Serie A promises to deliver an exciting and competitive campaign.