The dust has settled on the 2024/25 Serie A season, and with it comes the familiar and often heartbreaking cycle of promotion and relegation. For three clubs, the dreams of top-flight glory have been put on hold, while another three bask in the exhilaration of returning to Italy's top division. The upcoming 2025/26 season promises a new landscape, with fresh challenges and renewed ambitions for all involved.
Here's an in-depth look at the teams that will be leaving and joining the ranks of Serie A.
The Relegated: A Season of Disappointment
For Empoli, Venezia, and Monza, the final whistle of the season brought the crushing reality of relegation to Serie B. Their journeys to the bottom of the table were distinct, but the outcome is the same.
Monza's Sharp Fall: It was a disastrous season for Monza, who finished rock-bottom of the table with a mere 18 points. After three seasons in the top flight, the club was relegated following a 0-4 loss to Atalanta. The team struggled to find form throughout the campaign, with a lack of goals and a porous defense proving to be their undoing. Their time in Serie A, which began with such ambition, has come to a premature end.
Empoli and Venezia’s Final Day Heartbreak: The relegation battle for Empoli and Venezia went down to the very last matchday. Empoli, after a respectable four-year spell in Serie A, and Venezia, after just one season back, both faced crucial matches to save their top-flight status. Unfortunately, both teams fell short. Empoli lost 1-2 to Hellas Verona, and Venezia succumbed to a 2-3 defeat against Juventus, sealing their fate and sending them both down to Serie B.
The Promoted: New Hope and Fresh Ambition
As a door closes for some, it opens for others. Three clubs will be making the jump from Serie B to the big time, each with their own unique story.
Sassuolo’s Swift Return: After just a single season away, Sassuolo has made an immediate comeback to Serie A. They were the first team to secure promotion, clinching the title of Serie B champions. Their dominant performance throughout the season saw them finish a comfortable six points clear at the top of the table. Under the guidance of their new manager, Fabio Grosso, who took over at the start of the summer, they will be looking to re-establish themselves as a competitive force in the top flight.
Pisa’s Long-Awaited Triumph: Pisa’s return to Serie A is a story of incredible persistence. The club has finally ended a 34-year absence from the top division, making this one of the most emotional promotions in recent history. Their journey has been one of ups and downs, including a period in the fifth division due to bankruptcy. Under the leadership of coach Alberto Gilardino, the team secured the second automatic promotion spot, and fans will be dreaming of a brighter future in Serie A.
Cremonese’s Playoff Drama: The final spot in Serie A was decided in a thrilling playoff final between Cremonese and Spezia. After a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg, Cremonese triumphed in a dramatic second leg, winning 3-2 on the road. The victory marks their return to Serie A after a two-year absence, and their fans will be hoping for a more successful campaign than their last. Cremonese's promotion via the playoffs adds an extra layer of excitement and a narrative of resilience to the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead to the 2025/26 Season
The promoted teams face a daunting challenge: not only must they prove their worth against Italy’s elite, but they must also avoid the dreaded "yo-yo" effect of immediate relegation. Sassuolo has the experience of being a top-flight regular, while Pisa and Cremonese will rely on their newfound momentum and squad strength.
For the relegated clubs, the road back to Serie A will be tough. Monza, with their resources, will be a favorite for an immediate return. Empoli and Venezia, both with recent top-flight experience, will also be strong contenders in what promises to be a competitive Serie B campaign.
The 2025/26 Serie A season is set to be a fascinating one, with new faces and old rivalries. The promoted teams will bring fresh energy and a hunger to compete, while the established clubs will be eager to prove their dominance.