Monza coach Ivan Juric confirmed they will be without captain Matteo Pessina ‘for a while’ following a serious knee injury, as they prepare for their first Coppa Italia match.
The Italian football season kicks off in earnest on Friday with several Coppa Italia First Round ties, including Monza hosting Avellino at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
However, Pessina will not be a part of that squad, nor will he be able to participate in the opening rounds of the Serie A campaign.
Monza must do without Pessina
MONZA, ITALY – MAY 04: The AC Monza fans show their support during the Serie A match between AC Monza and Atalanta BC at U-Power Stadium on May 04, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Pessina had a problem with his knee, he will be out for a while,” said Juric in a press conference.
“It is a huge loss. He is a leader both on and off the field. In any case, he will remain close to his teammates.”
According to reports, more in depth tests will be required over the next few days to give a better idea of the extent of the damage, and how long they can expect to be without Pessina.
The 29-year-old started out in the youth academy of his hometown club, and returned in 2023 after spells with the likes of Milan and Atalanta.
He had been hoping to take a key role following their promotion back into Serie A, but is now expected to be out of action for several months.
“The objective of course is to secure safety and help some of these lads develop,” added Juric, who only took over this summer.
“There is an abyss between Serie A and Serie B. We decided to make several changes, adding lads of great quality, but they have never actually played in the top flight.”