Como Signs Roberta Picchi to Long-Term Deal Amid Cancer Battle
Como have tied Roberta Picchi to a new long-term contract just as the forward prepares to start treatment for breast cancer, turning a brutal personal moment into a powerful show of faith.
The club, set for their first-ever season in women's Serie A, confirmed that the 34-year-old Italian has had her deal extended until the end of the 2027-28 campaign. They framed the decision as part of their “continued commitment” to a player who helped drag them into the top flight.
Picchi will now begin her cancer treatment, supported day to day by Como’s medical staff, who will coordinate with the specialists overseeing her care. The club made clear she will not face the coming months alone.
“Everyone at Como 1907 is alongside Roberta and will give her and her family all the support they need during the months ahead,” read a club statement, which also called for space and respect. “At this time, we ask that Roberta’s privacy is respected as she focuses on her treatment and recovery.”
On the pitch, Picchi has been central to Como’s rise. Last season she was part of the side that stormed to the Serie B title, finishing 11 points clear of Lumezzane and sealing a historic first promotion to the top division of Italian women’s football. Her experience and presence were expected to be key as the club stepped into unfamiliar territory.
Off the pitch, she met the diagnosis with the same competitive edge that has defined her career. Writing on social media, Picchi reflected on the shock and the perspective it brought.
“Nothing should ever be taken for granted, and I feel fortunate,” she wrote. “It’s time to play my match, but I’ll be back even more determined.”
Those words now hang over Como’s season. The team, coached by Selena Mazzantini, open their Serie A campaign against AC Milan on 26 September. When they walk out for their debut in the top flight, they will do so knowing one of their leaders is fighting a very different kind of battle – and that the club has already made clear she remains firmly part of their future.
