Seria A Club Hellas Verona's heartwarming initiative ahead of facing AC Milan

The 2024-25 edition of Serie A resumes this week with a crucial clash as Hellas Verona takes on Paulo Fonseca's AC Milan at the Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on Friday.

AC Milan currently sits in eighth place in the Serie A standings, struggling to assert their dominance this season. Meanwhile, Hellas Verona finds themselves in 17th place, having consistently failed to live up to expectations over the past year.

AC Milan has a strong history in this matchup, although they've faced some challenges in recent weeks. Players like Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham have the potential to make a significant impact when they find their rhythm. On the other hand, Hellas Verona has had a tough season, currently finding themselves close to the relegation zone. 

Verona's heartwarming initiative 

Hellas Verona has officially announced a new mascot initiative for their upcoming Serie A clash against AC Milan. Before kick-off, the players will proudly be accompanied by seven half-breed puppies, serving as match mascots.

These adorable puppies are residents of the 'Rifugio del Cane e del Gatto - centro benessere animale', a facility owned by the Municipality of Verona. Hellas Verona is determined to leverage this opportunity to bring significant attention to these puppies, ensuring they capture the hearts of millions watching the match and pave the way for their adoption.

"The seven puppies will be adopted at a distance by the club, which will officially become the godfather of the little half-breeds and will contribute concretely to their stay at the Refuge until they find a family and a home ready to welcome them." read the club statement.

"When the puppies are entrusted, the club will donate Hellas Verona branded gadgets to the adoptive families: a bag holder, a leash and a yellow-blue coloured bowl. The seven puppies, two males and five females, will be renamed as follows: Zeno, Mastino, Olimpia, Arena, Bra, Hellas and Verona." Club statement.