Diagnosis halts Picchi’s season while Como Women secure her future

Roberta 'Piki' Picchi, the forward (jugadora) of Italy's Como Women, has been diagnosed with breast cancer, prompting an immediate halt to her playing duties, while the club has simultaneously announced a contract extension to June 2028 to guarantee her future beyond the treatment.

Diagnosis and immediate response

El Como Women confirmed the diagnosis after Picchi underwent a series of medical examinations that identified breast cancer. The diagnosis was confirmed following a series of tests that the player underwent.

The club shared the news on its Futbol channel, noting that the forward will begin the prescribed therapeutic process without delay, as directed by the specialists overseeing her case. The club stressed that immediate treatment is essential for a favourable outcome.

The club's medical team will accompany the forward throughout this stage and will maintain close collaboration with the external specialists responsible for her treatment. The specialists have outlined a personalised therapy plan that will be implemented promptly.

Como Women also pledged to provide any assistance Picchi may need during her recovery, emphasizing the club's role in supporting her beyond the pitch. They also assured that logistical support, such as transport to appointments, will be arranged as needed.

Club's long‑term commitment

In the same announcement, the Italian side revealed that Picchi's contract has been extended until June 2028, a move intended to demonstrate backing while she is temporarily away from training and matches. The club presented the renewal as a sign of solidarity with the player during her health battle.

The renewal, according to the club, reflects a commitment to the player that transcends her immediate sporting circumstances, guaranteeing continuity once she is ready to return. The club highlighted that this guarantee will allow Picchi to focus entirely on her treatment without worrying about her professional future.

Como Women added that the entire club family will stay close to Picchi and her loved ones throughout the process, offering moral and logistical support. Family members were also told they could rely on the club's resources throughout the journey.

No specific date has been set for her comeback; the priority remains completing the treatment and achieving full recovery before any consideration of re‑joining the squad. The club will not set a timetable for her return until her health permits.

The club asked supporters to respect Picchi's privacy and that of those around her, stating it will refrain from releasing further details while she concentrates on her therapy. The statement asked fans and media to refrain from speculation and respect her private life.

The original communication also contained the line “Añadir como fuente preferida en Google”, reflecting the source's online metadata. This line appeared at the bottom of the club's online post.