Serie A

After a stunning relegation, Sassuolo will usher in their new cycle with coach Fabio Grosso at the helm against a perennial playoff contender in Serie B.

The new-look Udinese will get things started versus Avellino, who beat their regional rivals, Serie B newcomers Juve Stabia, in the preliminary round.

Genoa have had a lot of continuity this summer, and after finishing 11th, they’ll look to get past a pesky side that lost their coach to Monza.

Monza had a quiet summer but two big changes, on the bench and up front, as they sold their star Colpani. Sudtirol easily avoided relegation last season.

Cremonese saw their promotion bid end in the bitterest way possible, losing in the playoff final to Venezia. Bari won the playout to stay in Serie B.

Coach Zanetti will debut on the Hellas Verona bench against the ambitious Cesena, who have been busy on the market and defeated Padova 3-1 to advance.