Open VAR Settles the Debate: Ricci’s Handball Is Not a Penalty
The definitive verdict on one of the most debated incidents of the recent Serie A weeks has finally arrived. The Open VAR programme, broadcast on DAZN, confirmed that referee Doveri made the correct decision in the closing minutes of the Milan-Inter derby by not awarding a penalty for Ricci’s alleged handball.
Tonolini, a member of the commission responsible for reviewing refereeing incidents, stated clearly: the player’s arm was in a natural position and the movement was aimed at tucking it in, not at increasing body volume. Had the ball not struck his arm, it would have hit his chest. A crucial technical detail that dismantles any possible controversy. The VAR itself had no doubts whatsoever — there was no need for an on-field review.
The Bisseck Precedent in Inter-Lazio: Why It’s a Different Case
Some tried to draw a parallel between Ricci’s situation and the penalty awarded against Bisseck during last season’s Inter-Lazio match. However, the two episodes are entirely different. The Nerazzurri defender had his arm stretched wide, creating a larger body volume and making the call inevitable. Ricci, on the other hand, was actively trying to bring his arm back towards his body. Two opposite dynamics, two consistent decisions.
Following Open VAR’s ruling, the matter should be considered definitively closed. Milan won the derby on full merit, and it is time to focus on a league race that has been blown wide open in the most exciting way.
Rabiot Suspended: He Will Miss Milan vs Lazio
The disciplinary committee has confirmed the suspension of Adrien Rabiot due to an accumulation of yellow cards. The French midfielder will therefore miss the upcoming match against Lazio, forcing the Rossoneri coach to rethink his midfield options. Meanwhile, Luka Modrić has entered the yellow card danger zone, bringing the total number of Milan players one booking away from a ban to four. A situation that requires careful management in the coming fixtures.
Lazio Ultras Return to the Olimpico — Specifically Against Milan
An intriguing development ahead of the Rome trip: Lazio fans will return to the stands at the Stadio Olimpico for the match against Milan, ending a lengthy boycott that had already raised eyebrows during Maurizio Sarri’s tenure. The Biancocelesti supporters have announced their comeback complete with a dedicated choreography, only to confirm they will not attend again for the remainder of the season. A curious choice, given the well-known historical links between a section of the Lazio fanbase and Inter supporters: the timing of this mobilisation, conveniently against Milan, has not gone unnoticed.
More Fines for Milan: Nearly €100,000 in Sanctions This Season
AC Milan have been fined once again for a late entry onto the pitch, a recurring issue this season that has pushed the total sanctions close to €100,000. On top of that, the club received an additional €8,000 fine for offensive chanting by fans directed at Bastoni and Barella during the derby. Offensive chants remain a problem across all Italian stadiums, yet in this instance it was the Rossoneri club that bore the financial consequences.
Milan Transfer News: André Deal with Corinthians Hits a Wall
On the transfer front, the pursuit of André, the talented young Brazilian midfielder born in 2006 who plays for Corinthians, is becoming increasingly difficult. The São Paulo-based club has rejected Milan’s €17 million offer, demanding a higher fee to part ways with their prized asset.
The 19-year-old, described as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder with enormous potential — rather than a pure holding player — gave diplomatic quotes to Globo Esporte: “Playing for Milan would be a dream, but right now I’m at Corinthians and I’m already living a dream.” A message that acknowledges the Rossoneri’s interest without causing friction with his current employers.
In Brazil, a full-blown media campaign to keep the youngster has erupted: even his teammate De Pinho publicly praised André’s qualities, saying he has his entire future ahead of him. The deal is further complicated by interest from other clubs — Benfica are reportedly willing to table an offer exceeding Milan’s bid.
Milan, for their part, do not appear willing to raise their proposal to €20 or €22 million. Should Corinthians refuse to lower their asking price, the deal is at serious risk of falling through. A shame, as the young Brazilian’s profile would be a perfect fit for the Rossoneri’s long-term project. However, the Via Aldo Rossi management have shown time and again that they know how to hold firm on valuations without getting dragged into bidding wars.
