Serie A games are set to return by June 2 as Italy prepares to move into the next phase of the coronavirus pandemic response.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte confirmed the nation will begin to relax social distancing from May 4 and the guidelines will allow Serie A clubs to start full training from May 18.
That should give the Premier League and English football major hope as Italy was regarded as being just two to three weeks ahead of the UK with a similar death toll and infection rates.
The Premier League is already looking at plans to return to training in May.
It has a best case scenario of playing games by June 8 and is determined to try and complete the season.
Conte said: “You have all shown strength, courage, sense of responsibility and community.
"Now the phase of living with the virus begins for everyone and we must be aware that during Phase Two, there is the risk we’ll see the curve climb in some areas of the country.
“It’ll be even more important to maintain social distancing, at least one metre.
"Even when seeing family, we must still maintain this precaution, because the scientists tell us that at least one out of four infections come via family members.
“If we do not respect social distancing, the curve will climb again, so will the number of deaths, and we will have irreversible damage to our economy.
"If you love this country, then respect social distancing.”
Phase Two will see the lockdown eased, some travel allowed within regions and greater freedom for outdoor exercise, but still maintaining social distancing guidelines and banning travel between regions unless necessary.
