Avellino vs Arezzo - Serie B

Avellino prepare to host Arezzo at the home ground on August 22, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Serie B season. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

In the Serie B table, Avellino currently occupy 4th and Arezzo sit 11th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, DWWL in their last five reflecting a win rate of 50%. Arezzo travel in decent nick, W in their last five and a win rate of 50% this season. The contrast in attacking output — 1.5 versus 1.25 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

The touchline duel between the two managers adds another layer of intrigue, with both likely to tweak their setups in search of a decisive edge. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

The fixture boasts genuine star quality. With C. Shpendi topping the Serie B scoring charts at 5 goals, the stage is set for the kind of individual brilliance that can swing a contest. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. While reports in France also claim Chelsea have joined the race with Liverpool and the Reds to sign Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. All signs point towards a home win, with Avellino favoured to come out on top by a 2-1 scoreline. Whatever the outcome, the Serie B fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. The Spaniard heading to Barca all but rules out a midfield departure from the Bernabeu and thus United will likely have to look elsewhere.