Roberta Picchi Diagnosed with Breast Cancer: Como Supports Striker with Long-Term Deal

Como 1907 have wrapped their arms around Roberta Picchi at the toughest moment of her life.

The club confirmed that the 34-year-old striker has been diagnosed with breast cancer after a series of medical examinations, and responded with a powerful gesture: an immediate contract extension through to the end of the 2027-28 season.

No negotiations. No hesitation. Just support.

A contract as a statement

In their official announcement, Como revealed the diagnosis and underlined that Picchi will now begin treatment, assisted day to day by the club’s medical staff in close coordination with oncology specialists overseeing her care.

The long-term renewal is far more than a footballing decision. It removes any doubt about her future, giving the Italian forward the security to focus solely on treatment and rehabilitation, without the shadow of an expiring deal hanging over her.

Como’s statement stressed that everyone at the club stands alongside Picchi and her family, promising full backing “during the months ahead”, and closed with a clear request: respect her privacy as she tackles this battle away from the spotlight.

Squad must move on without their leader

While Picchi steps away to fight a far more important contest, Selena Mazzantini’s side must quickly adapt on the pitch.

Their season begins with a demanding trip to Brescia in the Coppa Italia Women on September 20, a first test without their seasoned centre-forward leading the line. One week later, the stakes rise again: the 2026-27 Serie A Women opener, a high-profile home clash against AC Milan at Centro Sportivo SNEF Lambrone.

Mazzantini will need collective answers rather than a single replacement. Goals, leadership, personality – all will have to be shared.

The squad, though, have a clear source of motivation. As they chase a strong start in both cup and league, every run, tackle and chance created is likely to carry the same dedication: to a teammate fighting her biggest battle far from the roar of the stands.