Como renew striker's contract after cancer diagnosis

WHAT HAPPENED
Como 1907 announced they have prolonged the contract of forward Roberta Picchi after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The club has extended her deal through the end of the 2027–28 season and said it will support her during treatment.

Como confirmed Picchi, 34, will start cancer therapy and that the club’s medical staff will coordinate with the specialists overseeing her care. The club also asked for privacy for Picchi and her family while she focuses on recovery.

KEY CONTEXT
- Picchi was a member of the Como side that won last season’s Serie B crown, finishing 11 points ahead of Lumezzane to secure promotion.
- This season will be Como’s first in the women’s Serie A.
- The squad is managed by Selena Mazzantini; Como’s first top-flight match is scheduled against AC Milan on 26 September.

WHY IT MATTERS
The contract extension is a formal pledge of support from Como at a sensitive moment for a long-serving squad member as the club prepares for its debut in the top tier. The club’s commitment to providing medical coordination and retaining Picchi until 2028 signals an emphasis on player welfare during her treatment and recovery.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- When Picchi’s treatment begins and the timeline for her recovery and return to play remain unspecified.
- How Como’s medical team and external specialists will manage her care going forward.
- Whether Picchi will be available for selection for the club’s Serie A opener on 26 September is currently unknown.

KEY FACTS
- Roberta Picchi has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Como extended her contract until the end of the 2027–28 season.
- Picchi is 34 years old.
- The club will support her medically and asked for privacy for her and her family.
- Picchi featured in Como’s Serie B title last season, earned with an 11-point lead over Lumezzane.
- Como begin their first women’s Serie A season on 26 September; the team is managed by Selena Mazzantini.