Como Signs Roberta Picchi to Long-Term Deal Amid Cancer Fight

Como have tied Roberta Picchi to a new long-term contract just as the forward prepares to begin treatment for breast cancer.

The Italian club, set for their first-ever season in women's Serie A, confirmed the 34-year-old has signed an extension running until the end of the 2027-28 campaign, describing the move as part of their “continued commitment” to the player.

This is not a routine renewal. It is a statement of faith.

Picchi is about to start cancer treatment and will be monitored by Como’s medical staff, who will work alongside the specialists leading her care. The club made clear she will not be facing the next 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 her privacy to be respected while she focuses on treatment and recovery.

Picchi was a central figure in Como’s surge to the top flight last season. The forward helped drive the team to the Serie B title, finishing 11 points clear of Lumezzane and sealing the club’s first promotion to the highest level of Italian women’s football.

She addressed the diagnosis publicly, choosing the language of sport to frame the challenge in front of her.

“Nothing should ever be taken for granted, and I feel fortunate,” Picchi wrote on social media. “It’s time to play my match, but I’ll be back even more determined.”

On the pitch, Como, coached by Selena Mazzantini, are preparing for a daunting but historic debut in Serie A, opening their season against AC Milan on 26 September.

Off it, their most important contest has already begun.