Juventus, AC Milan Miss Champions League as Como Complete Historic Rise

Posted : 26 May 2026

Italian football witnessed a historic shift on Sunday as Juventus and AC Milan both failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League, ending a streak of nearly 35 years in which at least one of the two giants featured in Europe’s top club competition.

Their absence from next season’s tournament has intensified concerns surrounding the state of Italian football, especially following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup and a disappointing European campaign for Serie A clubs.

In a remarkable turnaround, Como secured a historic Champions League qualification after finishing fourth in Serie A, completing a stunning rise from the amateur divisions less than a decade ago.

The club’s achievement under coach Cesc Fabregas has become one of the biggest success stories in Italian football this season, with the former World Cup-winning midfielder praising the squad’s transformation since his arrival.

While Como celebrated, frustration and uncertainty dominated at AC Milan following their 2-1 defeat to Cagliari, which confirmed another season without Champions League football.

Supporters directed their anger toward owner Gerry Cardinale, displaying protest banners outside the stadium and demanding major changes within the club.

Reports in Italy suggest Milan could undergo a significant restructuring, with head coach Massimiliano Allegri and several first-team players facing uncertain futures after another disappointing campaign.

Former Milan manager Fabio Capello criticized the team’s lack of identity and warned that any rebuild must be guided by a clear long-term vision.

Juventus also endured disappointment after a draw against Torino left them outside the top four, although manager Luciano Spalletti is reportedly expected to remain in charge as the club begins a rebuilding phase.

Spalletti acknowledged the financial impact of missing out on Champions League revenue and stressed the need to improve the squad’s mentality and consistency.

Meanwhile, Como’s breakthrough season has drawn widespread admiration, with Argentine midfielder Nico Paz emerging as one of Serie A’s standout performers after an impressive campaign that reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid.

The dramatic contrast between Como’s rise and the struggles of Juventus and AC Milan highlights a changing landscape in Italian football as traditional powers face increasing pressure to rebuild and adapt.

Juventus, AC Milan Miss Champions League as Como Complete Historic Rise

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