Inter Milan vs Fiorentina abandoned after Edoardo Bove collapses on pitch

Inter Milan’s Serie A match against Fiorentina was abruptly abandoned on Saturday after Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove collapsed on the pitch.

The incident took place in the 16th minute of the game at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence, leaving players and fans shocked.

Bove, who is on loan at Fiorentina from AS Roma, suddenly fell to the ground without any apparent contact. Players from both teams immediately signalled for medical assistance, and the match was paused as medical professionals rushed onto the field. Bove received treatment before being stretchered off and transported to the hospital in an ambulance.

Fiorentina later confirmed that Bove was in intensive care, stating that he was under pharmacological sedation. His condition was stabilised upon arrival at the emergency room, with early tests ruling out acute damage to both his central nervous and cardio-respiratory systems. Further assessments were expected to continue in the coming hours to determine the cause of his collapse.

As a result of the incident, the match between the third- and fourth-placed teams in Serie A was called off. Both teams, along with the referee, appeared visibly shaken by the events. The decision to abandon the game was mutual, with both clubs prioritising Bove’s health over the continuation of the fixture.

Fiorentina president Rocco Commisso expressed his support, saying: "Forza Edoardo, we’re with you. You’re a strong boy with a great character. We’re reaching out to his family during these moments." Inter Milan’s president Giuseppe Marotta also sent his well wishes: "Inter and the entire football world express their closeness to Bove’s family and Fiorentina. We hope it is nothing serious."

Bove, 22, joined Fiorentina in the summer on a season-long loan from Roma. He has made 12 Serie A appearances for Fiorentina this season, registering one goal and three assists. The club also holds an option to make his transfer permanent at the end of the season.

The football world has rallied behind Bove, with numerous players and officials offering messages of support. Fiorentina goalkeeper and former Manchester United star David de Gea posted a heartfelt message on social media: "God please." Bove’s parent club, AS Roma, shared a similar sentiment: "One of us, we are all with you." Serie A also posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Forza Edoardo. We're all with you."

The incident has left the football community deeply concerned, with fans, players, and officials all hoping for Bove's swift and full recovery.