Football in recent years can be paradoxical: it fields big, physical strikers with a fierce tackling style and an exuberant competitive spirit, whilst leaving behind those who can do marvellous things with the ball. The Atalanta midfielder is a prime example of this

Italian women’s teams in Europe lack self-confidence; they get nervous even before the match begins. And if they start strongly – as Roma did when they literally dominated Real Madrid – at a certain point they almost feel guilty, and they slip back into the depths of despair.

US football is growing partly thanks to the Latin American communities, their presence in the stadiums and the fan culture they have helped to build. For the clubs, this means identity and revenue. For the supporters, a sense of belonging goes beyond just the ticket

Had El Shaarawy’s free-kick gone in, it would have been long remembered by Genoa fans in a season that has not been particularly full of joy. The Viola’s defeat in Genoa, on the other hand, will ensure that their goalkeeper’s save is quickly forgotten.

In Cagliari, the striker is managing to outmanoeuvre his family background. He has succeeded on that island, Sardinia, where people from Lombardy have often found their place in the world (in football and beyond).

The impact of the Giallorossi striker’s sending-off in a match that offered few chances. Inter are delighted with their comfortable 3-0 victory over Parma