Como extend Roberta Picchi's contract after women's player diagnosed with breast cancer

Como have extended Roberta Picchi’s contract until the end of the 2027/28 season after the Serie A club confirmed the 34-year-old has been diagnosed with breast cancer, just three weeks before their new women’s season gets under way.

The club announced the news alongside a statement of full support, confirming that Como’s medical team will work closely with the specialists overseeing Picchi’s treatment. The club also pledged that Picchi and her family would receive all the support they need in the months ahead.

“Como 1907 can confirm that Roberta Picchi has been diagnosed with breast cancer following a series of medical examinations,” the club’s official statement read. “Roberta will now begin her treatment, supported throughout by the club’s medical team, who will work closely with the specialists responsible for her care. As part of that continued commitment, the club has also renewed Roberta’s contract until the end of the 2027/28 season. At this time, we ask that Roberta’s privacy is respected as she focuses on her treatment and recovery.”

Picchi responded with a heartfelt message on her Instagram story, expressing gratitude to everyone around her. “Grateful to be part of this great club,” she wrote. “Thank you for the opportunity, your trust and your utmost support. Thanks to everyone who has been by my side during this turbulent month: the club, the entire staff, the doctors, the hospital team, my legendary teammates, my friends and last but not least, my family. Nothing is ever a given, but I’m lucky. It’s time to play my game, but I’ll be back even more hungry.”

Teammates and colleagues were quick to rally around Picchi on social media. Team manager Francesca Vitale wrote: “We’re all playing this match together with you.” Midfielder Emilie Bosshard Haavi added: “We are with you and are waiting for you,” while Vero Boquete declared: “We’re going to win this match.”

The diagnosis arrives at a significant moment for the club. Como won the Serie B title last season to earn promotion, and the squad had been preparing for their first campaign at the top level of Italian women’s football.