During a Serie A match between Fiorentina and Inter Milan on Sunday, Fiorentina midfielder Edoardo Bove suffered a sudden and serious medical incident, collapsing on the pitch in the 16th minute. The match was immediately halted as players from both teams quickly reacted, forming a protective circle around the stricken player while medical personnel rushed onto the field. Bove was subsequently stretchered off and transported to a nearby hospital via ambulance after the referee instructed both teams to leave the pitch.

A statement released by Fiorentina confirmed that the 22-year-old is currently hospitalized in intensive care and receiving pharmacological sedation. The club indicated that a further medical assessment is scheduled within the next 24 hours. Importantly, the initial medical examinations conducted at the emergency room revealed that Bove arrived in stable hemodynamic conditions. Furthermore, these initial cardiological and neurological tests have, so far, ruled out any acute damage to his central nervous system or cardio-respiratory system. This is positive news, though the situation remains serious and requires continued monitoring.

Bove, who joined Fiorentina on a season-long loan from Roma in August with an option for a permanent transfer, scored his first goal for La Viola in October against his parent club. He has represented Italy at the under-21 level. The incident has understandably caused significant concern and prompted an outpouring of support from across the footballing community.

Fiorentina president Rocco Commisso expressed his support, stating, “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 president Giuseppe Marotta echoed these sentiments, telling Sky Italia, “Inter and the entire football world express their closeness to Bove’s family and Fiorentina. The decision to postpone the match was spontaneous on everyone’s part, we are a community, all the players and even the referee were emotionally involved. We hope it is nothing serious.”

Support also came from Bove’s teammate, former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea, who tweeted a prayer, and from Roma, his parent club, who expressed their solidarity. Serie A’s official X account also conveyed its well wishes. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in professional sports and the importance of swift medical response. The game ended in abandonment with Fiorentina currently sitting third in the Serie A table, level on points with Inter Milan.