Sassuolo star Berardi misses Verona clash: Grosso “Taking no risks”

Sassuolo have confirmed a late, surprise absence for captain Domenico Berardi against Verona, with the forward missing from both the starting XI and the bench.

Coach Fabio Grosso revealed a minor physical issue in the build-up and said the club preferred caution.

“Unfortunately we lose a very important player,” Grosso told Sky before kick-off, with quotes via GOAL. “He had a small physical problem; we hope it’s nothing serious. We decided not to take any risks.”

Domenico Berardi suffers injury to his achilles tendon during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona and Sassuolo on March 3, 2024.

Berardi’s omission alters Sassuolo’s attacking balance for the Friday night trip to the Bentegodi and forces Grosso to reshuffle his forward line.

The Neroverdi had counted on their captain’s creativity and set-piece threat, but the medical staff advised against involvement.

CREMONA, ITALY – AUGUST 29: Domenico Berardi of US Sassuolo scores the 2-2 penalty during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Giovanni Zini on August 29, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)

With a crowded fixture list ahead, Sassuolo will look to manage minutes and avoid aggravating the issue. Verona, meanwhile, will attempt to capitalise on the visitors’ reduced firepower as both teams seek crucial points in the early season.