AS Roma Injury News

Paulo Dybala remains sidelined as his recovery timeline stretches, and Gian Piero Gasperini is unsure whether the forward will be available for the match against Sassuolo. The Argentine has a calf problem that has not cleared up. He had returned to group training on Sunday, but he stayed out again this evening and will also miss the games against Manchester United and Udinese. Gasperini, speaking at his press conference, admitted he is concerned about the situation. Dybala had looked close to returning, which made the setback more frustrating for the coaching staff. Roma are planning around both Dybala and Manu Koné for the trip to Sassuolo, but the head coach is not certain it will be possible. Gasperini said: "I was confident after training on Monday. Paulo takes a bit of time to recover from injuries. We thought it would take less time, but that hasn't been the case. With him and Koné we are aiming for Sassuolo, but I don't know if it will be possible." There is still no news on Dybala's fitness. There is better news on Nahuel Molina's teammate Leonardo Balerdi, who has no problem after a heavy blow he suffered in Naples and missed the last match. Balerdi will be available on Saturday.

Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini spoke after his side's 2-1 win over Cagliari in Serie A's ninth round, and he said that a heavy run of matches means knocks are inevitable. Roma have now played six matches in a row, every two to three days. Gasperini said: "In diverse situazioni… capita quando giochi tante partite. Questa era la sesta di continuo ogni 2-3 giorni, qualche giocatore te lo trovi stanco contro un avversario fresco come Maldini." The Roma boss praised the way his squad has been used and the depth available to him. Gasperini noted that Balerdi and Hermoso came off injured against Napoli and must now be recovered, and that Cristante, back after a spell out, played 180 minutes in three days. He said: "Anche noi abbiamo tante risorse, abbiamo tante partite e per questo cerchiamo di ruotare." He added: "Grande merito aver vinto oggi, giochiamo con gli stessi da non so quante partite." On the Cagliari game itself, he admitted that some players were struggling and that Cagliari's forwards were fresher, adding: "Alcuni giocatori loro in attacco erano più frechi e ci creavano difficoltà." He said the win came partly through substitutions and partly through the willingness of everyone. On the squad as a whole, Gasperini said: "Sono contento perché tutti sono soddisfatti di quanto giocano, nessuno escluso. Queste partite valgono tre punti come le altre, in questo momento nella rosa sono tutti partecipi e determinanti, anche Gollini." He stressed that Wesley was not on the pitch in the first half and called it a major strength. On Gollini, he said: "Non avrebbe fatto 112 partite con me se non fosse stato un portiere di livello." He added: "Da vicino è straordinario, a volte prende gol dalla distanza ed è sempre stato un suo limite. Ma è un portiere di grande valore." Gasperini also said that Ghilardi has been playing well recently and will get more minutes, and that Lulli trained on heading the day before and scored with his head. On Mora, he said: "Utilizzato così è una mina vagante, lo è stato anche a Napoli." He noted that Paulo Dybala takes time to recover from injuries, saying: "Pensavamo che ci sarebbe voluto di meno ma così non è stato." Roma have scored 23 goals in nine matches, which Gasperini called "una bella cifra", against 10 at this stage last year. Gasperini also gave his view on the rule changes, saying: "Le partite sono più aperte ed è frutto in gran parte di queste regole che sono cambiate." Looking ahead, he said Roma aim to face Sassuolo with Dybala and Koné, but added: "Con lui e Koné puntiamo il Sassuolo ma non so se sarà possibile." Asked about Malen starting on the bench, he said the decision was linked to the schedule and that Castro had played two games earlier and been decisive.

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has spoken to Dazn ahead of the clash with Cagliari, admitting that the tight run of matches is taking a physical toll on his squad. Gasperini said: "Sicuramente tutte le partite hanno difficoltà, diverse ma ci sono. È chiaro che giocare così ravvicinati genera acciacchi e strascichi. Non è la stessa cosa di giocare una volta a settimana. Però può dare fiducia ai giocatori, anche a quelli che giocano di meno. È una opportunità per loro." ("Every match brings difficulties, different ones, but they are there. It is clear that playing such closely spaced games creates knocks and aftereffects. It is not the same as playing once a week. However, it can give confidence to the players, even to those who play less. It is an opportunity for them.") Gasperini was asked whether today's fixture resembles the recent Genoa match and whether it is a chance to prove Roma are a great side. He expects Cagliari to be ready to push forward quickly, with their wide players and attack in the forefront of their game. He warned his side to be careful of Nzola and Fadera, noting that Cagliari have important substitutes. Roma, he said, must play with quality and tempo. Asked about leaving Donyell Malen out, which had seemed unthinkable, Gasperini said the decision was dictated by the schedule. He pointed to Santiago Castro, who played two matches ago and was decisive. Gasperini said: "È figlia del calendario questa scelta. E poi castro ha giocato due partite fa ed è stato determinante. In un calendario così fitto dobbiamo avere tutti i giocatori al meglio, non solo Malen." ("This choice is the child of the calendar. And besides, Castro played two matches ago and was decisive. In such a packed schedule we must have all our players at their best, not just Malen.")

Chelsea remain interested in Roma midfielder Manu Koné, according to Ben Jacobs, with the Premier League club reportedly wanting to add a midfielder in January. Koné is currently out with an injury and is expected to return after the international break, but he remains closely watched by top clubs across Europe. Koné joined Roma from Borussia Mönchengladbach in August 2024 on a loan with an obligation to buy, a deal worth €18m. His continued appeal to Chelsea underlines the attention his performances have attracted from elite clubs. Chelsea's interest is not the only pressure on the club's midfield situation, as the London side are also linked with other targets. Chelsea's other reported midfield targets include Scott of Bournemouth and Camara of Monaco.

Manu Koné remains one of Roma's most sought-after players, with Premier League clubs monitoring the French midfielder. He is currently sidelined with a first-degree injury picked up in the Champions League clash with Real Madrid, but his strong start to the season has not gone unnoticed at Chelsea. According to Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport and TalkSport, the Blues consider him one of their main targets to strengthen their squad. Koné is not the only name on Chelsea's list. Camara of Monaco is also included, and most notably Scott of Bournemouth, who is reportedly Xabi Alonso's preferred option but is valued at around €100 million. After Chelsea's pressure this summer, a fresh attempt in January is not ruled out. Roma, however, have no intention of letting Koné go midway through the season, particularly in a campaign full of ambition and prospects.

Roma have released their squad list for tonight's Serie A ninth-round match against Cagliari, which kicks off at 20:45. Paulo Dybala is ruled out, as he has not yet fully recovered from a calf muscle injury. Mile Svilar and Manu Koné are also absent, though both are reportedly close to returning to action. The squad list features ten defenders: Rensch, Koulierakis, N'Dicka, Molina, Hermoso, Mancini, Balerdi, Wesley, Lulli and Ghilardi. The midfield options are Cristante, De Roon, Pisilli, Di Nunzio and Mora. The forward line comprises Castro, Malen, Soulé and Camara. The Cagliari fixture is part of the ninth round of Serie A, with Gian Piero Gasperini's side looking to continue their league campaign with the injury situation of Dybala, Svilar and Koné the main talking point before kickoff.

Paulo Dybala has been left out of Gian Piero Gasperini's squad for Roma's home match against Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico this evening. The Argentine had returned to training with the rest of the group, but the medical staff preferred not to risk him. There is no relapse, and he will be available for the away trip to Udine. The squad news adds to the absences of Mile Svilar and Manu Koné, who are both ruled out. Youngster Camara has been called up to the squad, with the list also featuring a wide range of options across all areas of the pitch. Roma will need to manage their resources carefully as the fixtures pile up. Gasperini's full squad is as follows. Goalkeepers: Vásquez, De Marzi, Gollini. Defenders: Rensch, Koulierakis, N'Dicka, Molina, Hermoso, Mancini, Balerdi, Wesley, Lulli, Ghilardi. Midfielders: Cristante, De Roon, Pisilli, Di Nunzio, Mora. Forwards: Castro, Malen, Soulé, Camara.

Pierluigi Gollini is set to play his final matches as Roma's first-choice goalkeeper before handing the number one shirt back to Mile Svilar, who is close to full recovery from a finger injury. Gollini has delivered convincing performances and clean sheets against Como, Genoa and Slovan Bratislava, and has also stood out in high-level clashes against Napoli and Real Madrid, with decisive saves from De Bruyne, Olivera and Politano. Gollini's save percentage stands at 77%, level with Maignan's. His aim is to keep a clean sheet in the next two league fixtures, against Cagliari at the Olimpico and away at Udinese. Roma's medical staff are encouraged by Svilar's progress, and according to Corriere dello Sport, his return to action is scheduled for early November, before the international break. Two possible dates have been identified for his comeback: the Champions League trip to Manchester United at Old Trafford, or the following league match against Sassuolo. On the European front, a specific UEFA rule applies. Vásquez was registered in the squad on 2 October following Svilar's injury, and UEFA regulations require a minimum period of one month before a new change can be made. The window for reinstating Svilar officially opens on 2 November, which theoretically makes it possible for him to be named for the Manchester match the following day. The final decision will rest with the medical staff. If there are any doubts about the risk, Gollini will also guard the goal at Old Trafford.

Roma have officially extended the contract of Emanuele Lulli until 30 June 2031, with coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressing satisfaction ahead of the Cagliari match. The club's news roundup, published after the 3-3 draw at Napoli, also covered fitness updates, Gasperini's comments on the injured players, and Napoli's appeal against Massimiliano Allegri's suspension. Roma now turn their attention to the home fixture against Cagliari. Gasperini gave an update on the injured players in his press conference. Paulo Dybala is the player closest to a return and could be named among the substitutes, a decision expected after the afternoon training session. Manu Koné is unlikely to return before the international break. Mile Svilar's availability is closer, and he could return within the week, or at the latest for the matches against Manchester United or Sassuolo. Gasperini praised the progress of the team and of individual players, with a mention for Matías Soulé, who was prominent at the Maradona. He said Roma are showing courage, solidity and continuity, and coming through well against top-level opponents. Cagliari coach Fabio Pisacane described Roma as a side that "rarely goes to the canvas", highlighting their ability to recover ground and stay dangerous when they push forward. He said Cagliari must identify and exploit the few weaknesses in the Giallorossi while staying focused and intense throughout the match. Roma officially confirmed the renewal of Emanuele Lulli until 30 June 2031. The winger, who made his professional debut and scored his first goal against Genoa, has signed a five-year deal confirming the club's intention to build around him for the future. Gasperini said: "Lulli's progress has been remarkable" in recognition of a player born in 2007 who has been rewarded with a long-term contract. Napoli have rejected the decision of the Giudice Sportivo and announced an appeal against the two-match suspension handed to Massimiliano Allegri after the 3-3 draw with Roma. The Napoli coach had been punished for protests directed at match officials in the tense closing stages at the Maradona. In a club statement, Napoli said: "La SSC Napoli, in seguito alla richiesta di accesso agli atti, comunica che presenterà ricorso per le due giornate di squalifica inflitte a mister Massimiliano Allegri."

Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini has given a press conference on the eve of the match against Cagliari, outlining the fitness situation of several players and rotation plans. Dybala is the only possible fitness doubt, and Gasperini said: "Let's see this afternoon whether we can bring him to the bench, that would already be positive and I have good confidence." On rotation, he said: "Today is our first training session but it's already the eve of the match, I decide today. Probably yes, there's always something. We'll also see based on the assessment of the opponent. We have a squad that can rotate very well even during matches." Gasperini was also asked about the suspension handed to Allegri. Gasperini said: "I didn't hear it, then you reported it and surely it's like that. There are the numbers, the testimonies, the data, ours and those of the other teams. I haven't read a comment in favour of this observation, which seems really unfortunate to me. There's no need for me to add anything else." Roma's form is a central theme. The club has taken 15 consecutive league results without defeat. Asked about the reason for the change in mentality, Gasperini said: "This is continuous and must still be. Our goal is always to improve ourselves, there's never a limit on this. We have certainly reached a way of playing on the pitch that is repeated over time and gives us results, so we continue to face matches in this way. There is certainly growth across the whole squad, also individual growth for many players, but above all there is an environment that pushes us to be brave, proactive, to face all matches, even the most difficult ones, with the confidence of doing our part well." On Soulé, Gasperini said: "Unfortunately he had to stay still because of the groin problem, he lost a few months. This year he has restarted from where he had finished the first half of last year. The match with Napoli was extraordinary, but the others were also of a high level. Sometimes we forget that he is 23, at 23 a player still has margins of maturity in all aspects that can make him stronger and stronger. This year, also in several roles, on the right, on the left, out wide, he has found the goal as a trequartista, he is now a player who is acquiring confidence in his game. There are other things we think he can improve. He works very well to try to grow. Then he was called up by Argentina." On Lulli's contract renewal, Gasperini said: "They are only situations. There we have four players who are doing very well. They are coincidences. I am happy for him, he deserves it. The goal of everyone is to improve individually so the team can be even stronger." On goals conceded, he said: "The attitude is always very positive. The goals are all different. Against Real Madrid we were more at fault, compared for example with Anguissa's goal. Nothing went wrong. Situations need to be analysed. Then of course, sometimes we make technical errors but the approach is always very positive. We haven't conceded many goals from set pieces, except in a few matches. Scoring two against Inter, three against Real, three against Napoli, are matches where there are great players and the conversion rate is higher." Asked about changing defenders during games, he said: "Yes, a bit of everything. With five substitutions, which are really a lot, it can happen that we change the defenders. Opponents bring on strong and fresh opponents, so a change in defence also makes sense, as happened with Hermoso against Real. It's true that with our defenders at the moment we have an attacking tendency to score goals, especially in the air they are very effective. Even there it's part of finding solutions during the match, because compared with others they are stronger in the air." On the three draws in the league, he said: "They were three matches all different but certainly beautiful in different ways. Very balanced, but in all three we came out of them very well. I don't want to say more, but certainly not less compared with the opponents. They are our most direct rivals in the league, in the other matches, apart from Atalanta. We didn't win, but the others didn't win either. We didn't take that extra step by winning one, but the path is very positive." On what is missing to win such matches, Gasperini said: "They are balanced matches. We had the concrete opportunity to go ahead. They are matches where you play on the quality of finishing. We found ourselves 2-0 down, we came back and we had the confidence to win it, then we fell behind again and equalised. In 90 minutes these kinds of games can take different turns, very much thanks to the skill of a few players. We must look at the assessment of the 90 minutes, and it's true we had some difficulties, but overall I believe Roma came out of it very well. We leave aware of having played on equal terms, certainly not an inch less." Looking ahead on injuries, Gasperini said: "Koné is unlikely before the break. Svilar could return this week and could be recovered next week. It would be ideal for Manchester, or for the last one against Sassuolo."

Roma goalkeeper Mile Svilar is aiming to return before the November international break, with an MRI scan in Belgium scheduled for Thursday 29 October. The Serbia international is recovering from a fracture to his fifth toe, and the scan will determine whether he can resume training ahead of upcoming matches. According to ForzaRoma.info, the discomfort has decreased and Svilar hopes to bring his initially planned timeline forward. A trip to Manchester United on 3 November remains difficult for regulatory reasons. Under UEFA rules, after an injured goalkeeper is replaced on the list, at least 30 days must pass from the date of the injury, not from the date the change was communicated. Reinstating him also requires the player to be declared fit and the club to notify UEFA within the set deadlines. For this reason, the home match against Sassuolo on 7 November currently appears a more realistic prospect for Svilar's return. Gollini will continue in goal against Cagliari and Udinese. The article focuses on the timing of Svilar's recovery and the UEFA eligibility rules that govern his possible return to the Champions League fixture in Manchester, while Sassuolo at home is seen as the more likely target.

A remark reportedly attributed to Massimiliano Allegri after Napoli-Roma has sparked controversy. Allegri is said to have commented: "Last year they put the Champions League in Roma's pocket, they are always them." The words reportedly irritated the Giallorossi club, and the club now expects a possible investigation by the Procura Federale. Lele Adani criticised the comment strongly on the Domenica Sportiva programme. "If this is verified, I hope Allegri apologises. It would be a pathetic and disrespectful allusion for Roma, for Gasperini and for football." The episode comes as Roma look to move on from a difficult weekend against Napoli. Mile Svilar will return to the capital on Wednesday after completing his rehabilitation in Belgium from a foot fracture. Once back at Trigoria, the goalkeeper will undergo further checks. Staff hope to speed up his recovery and make him available to Gian Piero Gasperini again before the mid-November international break, according to Corriere della Sera.

Matías Soulé has become an indispensable figure in Gian Piero Gasperini's tactical setup, and Paulo Dybala is closing in on a return to the attack alongside him. Soulé put in a top-class display in the draw against Napoli, with four key passes, an 88% pass completion rate, four duels won, four dribbles and a high number of balls recovered. With three goals and one assist in eight league matches, the 2003-born forward appears transformed, more daring, incisive and decisive in the big games. Soulé's rise comes after a complicated summer marked by transfer rumours and the after-effects of a groin problem (pubalgia) that kept him sidelined for much of last season. Now he is set to form a potent attacking partnership with Dybala again. La Joya has almost recovered from a slight calf injury picked up against Real Madrid and has trained partly with the group, and he is pushing hard to be fit for the home match against Cagliari. In Gasperini's 3-4-2-1, the two Argentines require specific balance. When Dybala is on the pitch, Soulé is shifted to the right flank, a position that does not curb his forward runs but demands constant coordination. The coach nonetheless values the versatility and total willingness to sacrifice of both players, which are key to keeping Roma's attack competitive. The squad continues its preparations for the next league fixture. On the injury front, Koné will have to wait a few more days for a full recovery, although his condition is improving markedly. Attention is also being paid to travel ahead of the next Champions League fixture against Manchester United: after the match in Udine, the team will fly directly to England from Trieste, a decision planned by the coaching staff to manage energy levels and avoid travel stress for the players.

Gian Piero Gasperini is preparing further changes for Roma's home match against Cagliari, with Paulo Dybala close to a return and Mile Svilar possibly back sooner than expected. The fixture comes after Roma's costly 3-3 draw at the Maradona, and the kickoff at the Stadio Olimpico is at 20:45 tomorrow evening. The schedule leaves no time to rest, and Gasperini is set to rotate across the pitch. Emanuele Lulli is the favourite to start at right-back in place of Devyne Rensch, and the young full-back's contract renewal to 2031 is also drawing closer. In midfield, Gasperini is considering resting either Marten de Roon or Niccolò Pisilli, with Bryan Cristante moving back into the middle. Rodrigo Mora is a candidate to start alongside Matías Soulé behind Donyell Malen, adding quality and creativity in the final third. In defence, Leonardo Balerdi is heading for a starting place after his outstanding brace against Napoli. The Argentine could replace one of Gianluca Mancini, Evan N'Dicka or Mario Hermoso, with Hermoso coming off a difficult display at the Maradona. Gasperini wants to exploit the form of the former Marseille defender while also giving some of his first-choice players a chance to recover energy. Pierluigi Gollini will be confirmed in goal. The most anticipated news concerns Paulo Dybala. The Joya trained with his teammates yesterday for part of the session after passing fitness tests on the pitch to check his recovery from a slight calf injury. Today's final training session will settle the last doubts, and the Argentine is close to a place in the squad for Roma-Cagliari. He is expected to start on the bench, with the aim of gradually regaining match rhythm and being ready to start on Saturday against Udinese. His recovery is also important ahead of the Champions League trip to Manchester United on 3 November. Encouraging signs also come from Mile Svilar. The goalkeeper is completing his rehabilitation in Belgium after a stress fracture to the fifth toe of his right foot. New checks are planned in the coming days to assess his healing and establish when he can return to working on the pitch. The latest reports leave open the possibility of an earlier return than initially forecast, which had him available only after the November break. The first target remains the match against Sassuolo on 7 November, but an availability for the trip to Manchester on 3 November is not ruled out entirely, a scenario still to be verified medically. UEFA regulations offer a route here: a goalkeeper temporarily replaced on the list for a long-term injury can be reinstated once recovered, subject to a minimum period of 30 days and the necessary formalities. For Svilar, a Champions League return is therefore not excluded in principle, but it will depend on his actual recovery and the regularity of his position on the list. Further back in their rehabilitation are Manu Koné and Lorenzo Pellegrini. The Frenchman will try to be available again before the November break, with the games against Manchester United and Sassuolo in his sights. Pellegrini's timeline is considerably longer, as he is dealing with a serious injury to his right thigh: the midfielder faces a layoff of at least two months, with a possible surgical procedure still to be evaluated. Gasperini will present Roma-Cagliari at a press conference today at 13:30 and is awaiting further updates from the medical staff. The immediate priority is managing energy levels and finding new solutions to beat the Sardinians, but the gradual return of injured players could give Roma fundamental alternatives for the games ahead. After weeks of crisis, some good news is finally emerging for the Giallorossi boss.

Matías Soulé has returned to a central role in Gian Piero Gasperini's attack after overcoming the pubalgia problems that held back his form early in 2026. The Argentine forward has played 504 league minutes, making him the striker Gasperini has used most so far and ahead of fellow forwards Malen and Dybala. His performance at the Maradona, which included a superb goal that sparked Roma's comeback, showed his personality, his link-up play in tight spaces and his consistent impact in the final third. Il Tempo reports that there is good news from the Fulvio Bernardini training centre in Trigoria on the injury front, as the infirmary begins to empty. Cristante has returned to full training, and Paulo Dybala is progressing towards full recovery. Dybala left the European match against Real Madrid during the first half with a slight calf injury, has taken part in part of the group training session and is pushing hard for a place in the squad for the home match against Cagliari. There are also encouraging signs in goal. Mile Svilar, sidelined by a stress fracture in his right foot, will undergo new checks in Belgium on Thursday. If the result is positive, the goalkeeper could return before the international break. That would open the possibility of adding or swapping him on the UEFA list ahead of the Champions League trip to Manchester United on 3 November, using the rule that allows an injured goalkeeper to be replaced after a minimum period out.

Massimiliano Allegri could face disciplinary action after his comments following Napoli's 3-3 draw with Roma at the Maradona. His remark to Roma, “Last year they put the Champions League in their pocket. Always them…”, has been included in the report from the Federal Prosecutor's inspectors sent to the Giudice Sportivo. The report also recounts the Napoli coach's reaction after Roma's third goal, which led to his expulsion by referee Colombo. Allegri now risks a sanction, which could be a fine or a suspension of one or more matches. According to Nicolò Schira, Allegri's comments on alleged refereeing favours in the race for the Champions League were not welcomed at Trigoria. Roma are convinced they secured qualification last season purely through their results on the pitch. Milan were also drawn into the row, having lost to Cagliari in the final round of last season's Serie A, a result that forms part of the account of the battle for a Champions League place. In better news for Roma, Paulo Dybala trained with the group for part of Tuesday's session at Trigoria, moving closer to recovering from the calf injury that has kept him out of the games against Genoa, Slovan Bratislava and Napoli. La Joya is aiming to return to the matchday squad for Tuesday's game against Cagliari, possibly starting on the bench. Mile Svilar also shows encouraging signs and could be fit in time for the Champions League trip to Manchester United on 3 November. Speaking on Radio Radio, Aspri said: “I haven't seen such a negative game. I saw a lot of competitive fire and a lot of desire from both teams. Molina came on and gave quality and sparkle on the flank. I would have also brought on Lulli, who is in great form and could have been useful with the energy he has. Perhaps Gasperini preferred to rely on experienced players. Soulé is completing a maturation that was struggling to arrive, also because of the pubalgia, which the medical staff is working on very seriously. Without Dybala, it is he who has taken Roma by the hand.” On Radio Manà Manà Sport, Trevisani said: “Svilar returns before the break, perhaps in Manchester and almost certainly for Sassuolo. Dybala will also return before the break, probably in Udine.”

Roma head into Tuesday evening's Serie A ninth-round clash with Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico after a dramatic 3-3 draw at Napoli, in which Roma twice hauled themselves level. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini will hold his traditional eve-of-match press conference at 13:30 to address the squad's condition, Cagliari's threat and the recovery of injured players Svilar, Koné and Dybala, with the latter possibly returning to the matchday squad. Gasperini gave an update on the injury list and rotation. To Sky Sport he said: "Is there any recovery and do you plan rotations? The only possible one is Dybala, we'll try this afternoon, maybe I can take him on the bench, I'm confident. Rotations? I'll decide today, probably yes. We have a squad that can rotate very well." On Roma's recent results, the Napoli draw followed three draws with Como, Napoli and Inter, and Gasperini told Manà Manà Sport: "Three different games but beautiful games, very balanced. We came out well from all three, nothing less than our opponents, and it's clear they are among our most direct rivals. It's true we didn't win, but neither did they. We didn't take that extra step by winning one, but it is still a positive step." On Napoli, Gasperini told RadioRadio: "These are balanced games. We got the chance to go ahead, then you play on the moment, on quality. Then we found ourselves behind at Napoli, then we thought we could win, then behind again, so these games change quickly. We have to look at the 90 minutes, and in the 90 minutes we had difficulty because of the quality of our opponents, but overall we come out well, aware we played on level terms with these very strong teams." He also spoke of Soulé, telling Il Messaggero: "Unfortunately he had a period out with a groin problem, but this year he has picked up where he left off. Twenty-three years old, sometimes we forget that, he has room for maturity, and what he is doing this year, in several roles, he is gaining confidence and security in his game. He loses far fewer balls. He works well, and he has been called up by Argentina, another good sign." On injuries, Gasperini told TeleRadioStereo: "Koné is unlikely before the international break. Svilar could return this week, on Thursday or Friday, with some doubt, or next week. For Manchester it would be the maximum, or maybe Sassuolo." He added to RadioBruno: "In this period we have faced a spell with Svilar out, Cristante, Dybala, Koné and Pellegrini. Thankfully we are holding up and getting results. It's clear that when you are at full strength you are stronger, but injuries happen to everyone, and we play every three days, there's little to be done." Gasperini also addressed the defence, saying to Sportitalia: "Somewhat of everything. Today with five substitutions, which is a lot, it can happen that we change defenders. Opponents also bring on very strong players, so a change at defender is needed. We have a good attacking tendency to score in the air with defenders, which is part of finding solutions, not only from set pieces." On Lulli, he told Il Tempo: "Just situations, where we have players who are doing well. Rensch, Wesley... also Molina. Lulli, I'm happy for him, he deserves it. Everyone's aim is to improve individually, and through that we can become stronger."

Paulo Dybala is ready to return to the squad for Gian Piero Gasperini, with fresh positive tests on the pitch at Trigoria today confirming his progress in recovering from a problem to his right calf. The Argentine forward, according to Filippo Biafora, took part partially in group training today. According to Angelo Mangiante of Sky Sport, La Joya will be called up for Roma-Cagliari, scheduled for Tuesday 27 October at 20:45 at the Stadio Olimpico. He will initially start on the bench, with Gasperini potentially giving him a few minutes during the second half. This is an important recovery, and faster than initially expected. After the muscle problem he suffered against Real Madrid, follow-up checks had revealed a small injury to the gastrocnemius (calf muscle), raising fears of a longer layoff. The improvement in his physical condition has instead allowed Dybala to speed up his recovery. Barring setbacks, he will finally return on Tuesday among the attacking options available to the Giallorossi boss. The news is a welcome boost for Gasperini ahead of the Cagliari fixture, as Dybala's return adds another attacking option to the coach's selection. Mangiante's report is the source of the Sky Sport information on his availability.

Mile Svilar could be back in action for AS Roma before the international break, according to journalist and pundit Riccardo Trevisani. Speaking to Radio Manà Manà Sport, Trevisani said: "Svilar? Forse torna prima della sosta. Quasi sicuramente ci sarà col Sassuolo." Translated, that means the goalkeeper may return before the break and will almost certainly be available against Sassuolo. It is good news for Roma and Gasperini. Trevisani reported that the Belgian could be reunited with the goalkeeper from the start of November, earlier than both the coach and the medical staff had initially expected. Svilar is recovering from a micro-fracture of the fifth toe on his foot, which he picked up in training. In recent days Svilar has stepped up his individual training programme in an effort to return to full fitness, possibly ahead of the schedule originally set for him.

Radio commentators have reviewed Roma's goalless draw at Napoli, with several pundits offering views on the team's form and the fitness of key players. Speaking on Radio Radio, Pruzzo said: "Of the Napoli-Roma game I hardly liked anything, for me football is something else. Yesterday I saw every kind of thing for how the two teams managed to make this many mistakes. Of this match I take the result." Aspri, also on Radio Radio, said: "I haven't seen such a negative match. I saw a lot of competitive fire and a lot of desire from both teams. Molina came on and gave quality and brightness on the flank. I would also have put on Lulli, who is in great form and could have been useful with the quicksilver he has. Maybe Gasperini preferred to rely on experienced players. Soulé is completing a maturing process that was struggling to arrive, also because of the sports hernia, on which the medical staff is working very seriously. Without Dybala it is he who has taken Roma by the hand." On Radio Manà Manà Sport, Trevisani reported on the injury situation: "Svilar returns before the international break, perhaps in Manchester and almost certainly for Sassuolo. Dybala will also return before the break, probably in Udine." Rossomando, also on Radio Manà Manà Sport, addressed the club's ambitions: "Roma did not start the league season with the aim of the Scudetto as in 2000/01. You can try to fight to the end for that objective, but nobody is asking Roma to win the Scudetto at all costs. The draw at Napoli is something that is acceptable." Santoro, speaking on the same station, said: "Many fans believe Roma can make a top-of-the-table challenge until the end, so there may be regrets for a draw like yesterday's. You have faced Inter, Como and Napoli without losing. Which team in this Serie A can overwhelm you in a one-off game? There isn't one, whereas last year it happened."

Paulo Dybala is preparing to return to action in the coming matches, with the Argentine forward expected to try some group training over the next two days to establish whether he feels at 100 per cent. If the session goes well, Dybala would be on the bench on Tuesday; otherwise, that role will go to Udine. Dybala, who wears the number 21 shirt, could already work in the afternoon today, as a recovery session is scheduled for players who featured yesterday and a general session for the rest of the squad. The timetable is set around a session for those who played yesterday and a general training load for everyone else, with Dybala's own involvement depending on how he responds to the group work.

Roma face Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in the eighth round of Serie A, with the official line-ups now confirmed and Bryan Cristante starting from the first minute alongside Matías Soulé. Gian Piero Gasperini's side are up against a Napoli team coached by Massimiliano Allegri. The match is refereed by Andrea Colombo of the Como section. Roma arrive fresh from a Champions League win, but they are dealing with injury problems in the attacking midfield zone, with Lorenzo Pellegrini and Paulo Dybala both ruled out. The giallorossi are looking to take important points as they continue their push towards the top of the table. Romanews.eu is providing live coverage of the match with real-time updates throughout the game.

Manu Koné is getting closer to a return to action for Roma, with his recovery progressing well ahead of the club's trip to Napoli. The midfielder has been sidelined since the Champions League match against Real Madrid on 14 October, when he suffered a muscle injury. He was found to have a first-degree tear of the right hamstring. Roma are short on numbers for the difficult trip to the Maradona, and Gian Piero Gasperini's side are also dealing with a squad reduced to the bare minimum. In the infirmary, there is also encouraging news about Paulo Dybala, who is pushing to speed up his own timetable and is aiming to return already on Tuesday against Cagliari. Koné is expected to be available again between the Champions League match against Manchester United on 3 November and the Serie A fixture against Sassuolo the following weekend. That timeline points to his return coming at the start of November, when Roma face a demanding run of fixtures. Il Messaggero reports in today's edition that Koné is increasingly close to a comeback, and the French midfielder's return is now a step away. Roma will be hoping that the 3 November Champions League tie against Manchester United and the Sassuolo game give Gasperini a fully fit midfielder to call on once again.

Manu Koné is edging closer to a return to action, with Il Messaggero reporting that the French midfielder could be available between Roma's Champions League clash with Manchester United on 3 November and the Serie A match against Sassuolo the following weekend. The midfielder is working his way back from a right hamstring injury, a first-degree tear of the biceps femoris, sustained in the Champions League game against Real Madrid on 14 October. Before the Roma-Genoa match, Gasperini had already suggested Koné could return for the weekend of 7 November. Roma's aim, according to the report, is to have the Frenchman back before the international break, which gives the club a clear target for his reintegration into the squad. The update adds to a busy run of fixtures for Gasperini's side, with Koné's availability now likely to shape selection decisions across the coming weeks as Roma prepare for both the Champions League and domestic commitments.

Napoli host Roma at the Maradona today at 18:00 in a fixture between two coaches who have already faced each other 31 times, with Max Allegri and Gian Piero Gasperini set to make it 32 meetings. Allegri is looking to confirm that Napoli have begun their climb back up the table, while Gasperini wants to convince himself that Roma deserve to be near the top and, in the process, send his counterpart 10 points further adrift. The rivalry dates back to 2008 and has been shaped by two very different approaches. Allegri has mostly worn the smart clothes of top-level clubs, while Gasperini has spent far more time in a tracksuit. The result is opposing methodologies and philosophies of work. Gasperini's record against Allegri is the more telling part of the story: Allegri's more cautious style has come out on top so far, with 14 wins to 6 in his favour. Still, the table is weighing most heavily on Napoli. In the Napoli line-up, Allegri continues to rely on his best players, with De Bruyne acting as the playmaker who sees everything from deep and retains the licence to attack. Hojlund is the chosen centre-forward. For Roma, the injury to Pellegrini is a heavy blow, removing the second-most skilled player at supplying Malen, behind Dybala. Both will be missing today, and Gasperini will probably entrust the role to Cristante, with the dual aim of shadowing De Bruyne. The preview was written by Monica Scozzafava and Davide Stoppini for Il Corriere della Sera.

Cristante is in Roma's squad for the trip to Napoli, according to the squad list published by Il Messaggero. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini is short in the final third, with Pellegrini, Dybala, Svilar and Koné all sidelined. He has only Mora and Soulé behind Malen, and is considering playing Cristante further forward. The squad list names Balerdi, Ghilardi, Hermoso, Koulierakis, Lulli, Mancini, Molina, N'Dicka, Rensch and Wesley in defence; Cristante, De Roon, Mora and Pisilli in midfield; and Malen, Soulé and Castro in attack. Camara and Di Nunzio are also listed. The situation is serious enough that Roma are expected to act in the January transfer window. The club must spend to give Gasperini at least two reinforcements between attack and the flanks. Gittens and Leweling remain on the list, and the club has not ruled out the complicated pursuit of Endrick. A new left-back name has emerged: Alejandro Balde of Barcelona, who is finding few minutes under Flick and has been offered by Jorge Mendes. His name joins that of Oosterwolde. Sky Sport reports that Roma are close to the final details of a contract renewal for Lulli, which would run to 2031. The deal has not yet been officially announced, and the last points must be settled before it is formalised. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport at the Amsterdam stop of the EA7 World Legends Padel Tour, Stekelenburg was asked about Svilar. He said: "If I had to put him in the top five... no, not yet. After all, there are Courtois, Neuer and others. But he is a young lad and he is doing an excellent job. He just has to keep growing." Asked to choose between Højlund and Malen if he were a sporting director, Graziani said: "Malen without thinking twice. Hojlund I like a lot, and sometimes he looks to me like a 'little Lukaku' the way he leads the attack and the physical battles he takes on, and he has a great sense of goal; but Malen is my ideal striker, for the way he attacks space, for his dribbling, for the acceleration he has in the last twenty metres and because he can roam across the whole attacking front."

Paulo Dybala is close to returning to Gian Piero Gasperini's squad, with Roma's attacker reportedly in contention for Tuesday evening's Serie A clash against Cagliari, according to Sky Sport. Dybala was left out of the squad for the Champions League match against Slovan Bratislava because of a small muscle injury, a fact confirmed by Gasperini himself. The latest indications suggest he could recover in time for the next league fixture, although his presence is not yet official and will depend on evaluations from the medical and technical staff in the coming days. A possible return would give Gasperini an important offensive option, though the Argentine's minutes will need to be managed with caution. On the other side of the club's news, Roma are reportedly in the final stages of agreeing a new contract with young winger Lulli. Sky Sport reports the deal should extend his stay at the club until 2031, reflecting the club's intention to build around the player in the seasons ahead. A few aspects remain to be finalised before the agreement is formalised, and it has not yet been announced officially. Both stories fit into Roma's wider work to strengthen the squad available to Gasperini: Dybala brings quality and experience to the attack, while the Lulli deal would ensure continuity in the development of a player the club clearly values.

Gianluca Piacentini of Rete Sport insisted Roma paid 25 million euros for Mora, not 50 million, in the latest instalment of the Roman radio roundup. He said: "Roma paid 25 million for Mora, then if this year he scores 100 goals and is worth 200 million, Roma have the option of paying 25 million to remove that clause on a future resale. But they did not buy 50% of the player, they bought 100% of the player. If they sell him, they must give 50% of what they receive, which Roma can remove by paying another 25 million. Since you have been insinuating for days that he is rubbish but you do not have the courage to say it, you say he was paid 50 million, but it is not true! If Roma take Mora to the end of his contract, they will have paid 25 million. It is very clear." Rossi, also on Rete Sport, reopened the debate over Pellegrini, saying that some people had doubted Roma's decision to renew Dybala and Pellegrini this summer, citing a history of injuries. He said Dybala has not reached half of his appearances and that Pellegrini had reached his 100th injury. Pellegrini has now re-injured the musculotendinous junction of the flexor, and will take another three months out. Rossi added that the injury was not fixed and that the club paid five million gross for the player, money he said Roma could have spent better. On Tele Radio Stereo, Alessio Nardo asked whether this is Pellegrini's last season with Roma, adding that the speculation should be hedged because "with Pellegrini you never know". He also questioned whether Gasperini chose to speak at his press conference today to avoid questions about possible errors in the transfer market and about underestimating certain aspects. Nardo described a city that remains bitter even after a third-place finish and seven wins in ten matches, saying Mora had become "the new Zaragoza" and had been "destroyed" over the last 48 hours. Lorenzo Pes disagreed, arguing that Gasperini skipped the press conference simply because of a run of closely spaced matches. Valentina Catoni argued that the real problem was not renewing Pellegrini but failing to sign another forward, saying Gasperini had asked for at least one more player up front. Piero Torri of Manà Manà Sport said Roma are playing the season with only 20 outfield players, two of whom, Dybala and Pellegrini, have had a hard few years. He said the club's wage bill problem is the card Roma will play in front of UEFA, and claimed Pellegrini has played only 150 minutes in total. Torri also said he would have signed El Shaarawy at the end of the window, since he could play as a wide attacker or in midfield. Paola Cosenza voiced concern about Cristante, who is returning from a collateral ligament problem, fearing he may force his recovery. Marco Valerio Corsi said he expected Gasperini to protect Mora in the match at Napoli if he delivered another lacklustre performance, and that he doubted Wesley could play as a forward. Roberto Pruzzo said Soulé is growing and that Roma should build around him, and that he sees Santiago Castro as the alternative, adding that Mora looks too far behind the level required for the stage he is being asked to perform on. He said: "We must hope Malen doesn't even have a cold, otherwise it gets tough." Mario Mattioli argued that Pellegrini had only returned from injury two matches earlier and that the club had already lived through a similar situation. Nando Orsi criticised the constant talk of signings and of how Gasperini's training compares with that of previous years. The discussion is set to continue on the same programme, with pundits calling for Roma to reach January in contention for the top places before the club reassesses its options.

Filippo Biafora of Radio Manà Manà said the renewal of Marco Lulli's contract is done, with the defender set to sign a deal running until 2031 with a rising salary. Biafora said he had no confirmation on the operation involving Lorenzo Pellegrini, who for the moment will be out for a couple of months. Regardless of that situation, he said, Gasperini has strongly asked for investment in January. Francesco Balzani of Tele Radio Stereo said he expected Mora not to start. He said Cristante was awaited for a decision the previous day, and that Cristante had said he could start, with the club to assess how his minutes are managed because he cannot play the whole match. Balzani recalled that Gasperini played Cristante as a high forward against Allegri's Milan last year and could repeat it. He expects Cristante to start and Mora to come on if Roma need more technical quality, adding that Gasperini does not consider pairing the two strikers. Balzani said that starting Mora would upset the balance against a strong side in Naples, and that other moves would be forced. Mario Mattioli of Radio Radio said: "The injury to Pellegrini, but it is not that now every injury means going back to the market. What happens when you get the starters back? They should have foreseen that Gasperini's training was not what Roma were used to. Roma now train with a capital 'A', before it was not like this, but the fault certainly does not lie with the market." Roberto Pruzzo, also of Radio Radio, said: "We need to understand what role Castro can play, who at this moment can be the alternative. Mora seems too far behind to me. We must hope Malen does not catch a cold, otherwise it becomes tough. Above all in managing matches: we must make sure we reach January still there, and then sign players on the market." Lorenzo Pes of TeleradioStereo said that in June a discussion had opened about the length of Pellegrini's contract, especially on how such fragile players can lead to a different squad make-up. Dybala, Pellegrini and Koné often stop, and with the first two you have to reckon. He said Roma travel to Napoli with 17 outfield players, which is very few. Pes said Gasperini wanted to keep this squad, believing it would improve this season, and had strongly wanted to keep Dybala and Pellegrini.

Paulo Dybala's right calf has shown a clear improvement and the discomfort has almost disappeared, good news for Gian Piero Gasperini. The Argentine could return to the bench as early as Tuesday against Cagliari, possibly for a late cameo. The initial target had been the Udinese-Roma fixture, but the recovery could therefore be brought forward. Gasperini is hoping to have him back as soon as possible following the injury to Lorenzo Pellegrini. Roma are also being talked up as genuine title contenders. Former defender Zago believes the club are fully in the race for the Scudetto, saying: "It is a strong team in every department and, together with Inter, it is the favourite for the Scudetto." He has also praised Gasperini, saying: "He has brought a winning mentality. I consider him one of the three best coaches of recent years." Zago's view is that the side can get something from the trip to Napoli, where Roma face a Napoli side in the league, given the way they have been playing recently: "If Roma play the way they have been lately, they can pull it off." The flash column, which gathers short news items, rumours, anecdotes and behind-the-scenes details from across the Giallorossi world, is published on Friday 23 October 2026. The report on Dybala's fitness comes from Corriere dello Sport, while Zago's comments were reported by Il Tempo.

Roma's squad depth is under scrutiny after Lorenzo Pellegrini suffered a new injury that is expected to keep him out for a long spell, with Gasperini having earlier spoken of a 20-day absence for the midfielder. Radio pundits across Rome have questioned whether the club can cope with the current setup. Pellegrini had stopped playing on 10 April for a long recovery, and according to Pes, talk of a new injury with a lengthy spell out is an emergency for Roma. Pes also said that a wider debate has opened about the length of Pellegrini's contract and how fragile players such as him can shape the composition of the squad. Dybala, Pellegrini and Koné are often sidelined, and Pes said Roma must deal with the first two. Carina said Pellegrini had made a strong return, with a good half-hour at Como and a solid showing against Slovan. Carina said Roma have a qualitatively strong squad but lack numbers. Roma travel to Napoli with 16 outfield players: 11 plus 5 substitutes, and they play every three days. Carina added: "Con Gasperini non puoi avere una rosa così corta." He said that with a coach like Gasperini, who carries muscular injury problems with him, the squad should be 22 players rather than 20. Pes put the outfield count at 17, which he called very few. Max Tonetto, speaking on Radio Bruno, called Pellegrini's injury a tremendous blow at an already difficult moment without Dybala. He said Lulli looks perfect for Gasperini's style of football, while Mora needs patience: he has talent and is in safe hands with Gasp. Tonetto said the Napoli match will be a balanced battle, and that the club must reach January tightening their teeth before intervening in the market, because if Malen catches a cold it becomes tough. On the centenary, he said: "Una Roma senza Totti, De Rossi e Conti semplicemente non esiste." Pruzzo, on Radio Radio, said Soulé is showing growth but must step up a gear. He asked what role Castro could play, as he can currently be the alternative, and said Mora seems too far behind. He said the key is managing matches, reaching January still in contention, and then signing players in the market. Pes added that Gasperini had likely intended to skip some matches given the number of fixtures, and that he had insisted on keeping Dybala and Pellegrini. Mattioli, also on Radio Radio, asked whether every club should rush to the market each time it suffers an injury, and said Roma should have anticipated that Gasperini's training was not what the club was used to. Di Giovambattista, also on Radio Radio, said under Mourinho and Ranieri Roma trained less, with Ranieri training the mind.

Paulo Dybala could be back on the bench as early as Tuesday against Cagliari, after medical tests following the Argentine's right calf problem showed a substantial improvement in his condition. The news comes with bad news for Roma elsewhere, as Lorenzo Pellegrini picked up an injury that has left the club disappointed. The slightly damaged right calf, located at the level of the gastrocnemius, is barely troubling Dybala any more, according to Corriere dello Sport. That gives Gasperini room to do what he wants: bring the forward back faster than originally planned, as the coach has been keen to do. Gasperini has made his feelings clear, saying: "Now that I have lost Pellegrini, I hope to recover Dybala as soon as possible, otherwise it becomes a problem." The timetable could be accelerated without significant sacrifice. Dybala could come off the bench in the final stages of the match against Cagliari, four days before the trip to Udinese, which was originally set as the target date in his recovery plan. The return would give Roma a valuable attacking option at a time when the squad is missing Pellegrini.

Paulo Dybala could return to action sooner than planned, with the latest medical checks showing a clear improvement in his right calf and giving Gian Piero Gasperini a timely boost. The Argentine forward's calf discomfort is now almost a thing of the past, according to Il Corriere dello Sport, and the medical and technical staff can now speed up his return without taking unnecessary risks. Gasperini had stressed the need to get Dybala back as quickly as possible after the long absence of Lorenzo Pellegrini, which risked leaving Roma with a near-total shortage of attacking options. Dybala could be available as early as next Tuesday for the match against Cagliari, possibly coming on in the closing minutes, before aiming for a starting place in the following away trip to Udine. That would be ahead of the original timetable. The accelerated recovery reflects Dybala's determination to put his previous physical problems behind him, to rejoin his teammates and to regain the high level of athletic condition that had impressed the coach before he was sidelined against Real Madrid. To follow all the latest Roma news for free on your phone, join the club's Telegram and WhatsApp channels.

Matías Soulé has been entrusted with Roma's attacking play for the trip to the Maradona, with Gian Piero Gasperini relying on him as the last available genuine creative option. Paulo Dybala is absent, and Lorenzo Pellegrini is injured, leaving the attack severely depleted for what is billed as a championship supermatch. According to Il Messaggero, Roma are rallying around their last available true playmaker. With the injury list full and the attack stripped bare, Gasperini is placing his faith entirely in Soulé, who must carry the team in a setting that holds particular meaning for him. It was at Napoli a year ago that his outstanding start to the previous season was abruptly halted by a fierce groin injury (pubalgia), which forced months of pain, time on the bench and rest after a start of seven goals and seven assists. Despite a summer dominated by transfer speculation and the possibility of a sale, Soulé has won back the trust of the club's environment and reclaimed his place in the side through his performances. Now, without his usual partners, he is ready to take centre stage: he must play in Donyell Malen and lead the team on a night that carries the feel of a major test.

Rodrigo Mora is being handed greater responsibility after Lorenzo Pellegrini's injury, which could keep the midfielder out until 2027 with a high-grade tear to his right thigh. Roma face Napoli at the Maradona tomorrow, and Mora is set to play alongside Matías Soulé behind centre-forward Donyell Malen, as Paulo Dybala is also sidelined with a calf injury. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini must now reshape his plan for Mora, whose game time has so far been gradual. In Serie A he has played an average of 46 minutes per match, according to Niccolò Maurelli writing in Repubblica. Mora now wants to take control of the attacking department and become Malen's new focal point. The two already share a strong understanding, as shown against Real at the Olimpico, when the Portuguese set up the striker for the goal that made it 2-1 for the time being. Mora will need to quickly absorb the tactical idea of the coach, who wants him to be more decisive in front of goal.

Rodrigo Mora is set to be handed a starting role for Roma's difficult away trip to Napoli at the Maradona, with Lorenzo Pellegrini injured and Paulo Dybala continuing to struggle with physical problems. According to La Repubblica, the emergency that has decimated Roma's attack gives the young Portuguese playmaker the chance to become a central figure on the night. Mora is expected to line up alongside Matías Soulé in the attacking midfield behind Donyell Malen. Until now he has been eased in gradually and has played only a handful of minutes in the league. He will need to show the maturity required to carry the weight of Roma's build-up play, and he can build on the understanding he has already shown with Malen in Europe against Real Madrid. To strengthen the trust of Gian Piero Gasperini, Mora must also improve in front of goal, increasing his effectiveness and adding to his goal tally. It is an important test, and a night that could mark his definitive arrival at the heart of the Giallorossi project. The report puts Mora's opportunity squarely in the context of Roma's injury problems in attack. Pellegrini's absence and Dybala's recurring fitness issues have left Gasperini with limited options, and the match at the Maradona is a demanding assignment for a player still building his place in the side.

Roma travel to Napoli with their attack severely depleted, and Gian Piero Gasperini must decide whether to start Rodrigo Mora or move Bryan Cristante behind Donyell Malen for Saturday's clash at the Maradona. The injuries to Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini have removed two key players from the final third at the same time, while Manu Koné is still sidelined. Moving a midfielder further forward therefore means thinning out another area of the team. Mora is the more natural option. He is one of the few specialist attacking midfielders still available, and although his talent is obvious, he is still adapting to the demands of Italian football, Gasperini's tactical requirements and a system that asks a great deal of players without the ball. He did not manage to make the impact he would have liked against Slovan, but the emergency could offer him a major opportunity. The alternative is Cristante, who has just returned from injury. He could be deployed a few metres further forward, a position he knows well, which would give Roma more physicality, runs into the box and presence in the central zone. Among midfielders who can adapt to the final third, Cristante appears to have a slightly better chance than Niccolò Pisilli. In that case, Pisilli would stay alongside Marten de Roon in midfield, avoiding further weakening a unit already without Koné. It is a more conservative choice in terms of balance, but it would still allow Gasperini to add weight and experience behind the striker. Up front, there appear to be no doubts about Matías Soulé and Malen. The Argentine remains the main creative reference, while the Dutchman will again lead the attack. Santiago Castro is practically the only natural alternative to the centre-forward, and there remains a possibility, perhaps once the match is under way, of seeing both strikers on the pitch together. However, the starting line-up tells only part of the problem. Roma arrive in Naples with very few options to change the shape of their attacking play during the game, and that is the aspect that concerns Gasperini most on the eve of a period in which fixtures will follow one another without pause.

Lorenzo Pellegrini faces a spell on the sidelines of at least two months after scans revealed a high-grade tear at the distal musculotendinous junction of the semitendinosus muscle in his right thigh, Andrea Pugliese reports in La Gazzetta dello Sport. The news lands on a Roma squad already stretched by the recent injuries to Manu Koné and Paulo Dybala. Pellegrini had recently returned to his best form, and his first-half display against Slovan Bratislava had drawn applause. His absence removes a player who would have solved many problems for Gian Piero Gasperini. Bryan Cristante, who had been carrying an injury concern, will be available for tomorrow's match despite that doubt. With Roma heading to Napoli tomorrow, Gasperini could decide to field all three of his midfielders together to deal with the general shortage. The blanket remains short whichever way the coach pulls it. If he opts to play with his two remaining attacking midfielders, Mora and Soulé, he would have no other options in that role. The same problem applies in midfield. Gasperini used Cristante as a man-marker in a similar situation against Milan of Allegri, when Roma lost 1-0 at San Siro in an unmerited defeat, sending him to mark Modrić. Last season he did the same against Inter's Calhanoglu and Lazio's Rovella. Tomorrow, Cristante could again take on Lobotka personally at Napoli.

Lorenzo Pellegrini faces a long spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious muscle injury, with Roma's captain expected to be out for at least two months and not back until 2027. The blow comes as Gian Piero Gasperini prepares for the tricky trip to Napoli with a depleted squad and is forced to look for emergency solutions. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are going through a difficult period, hit by a long run of injuries that is limiting Gasperini's options. Tests revealed a high-grade tear to Pellegrini's right thigh, which will require around two months out. It is another cruel setback for the captain, who is already returning from a lengthy rehabilitation process that began in 2025. Manu Koné and Paulo Dybala are also absent, and with a packed fixture schedule the resources are stretched thin. For the trip to Napoli, Gasperini will have to improvise in the attacking midfield zone. One of the most concrete options is to field Pisilli, De Roon and Cristante together, with Cristante pushed forward into the trequarti. Cristante has recovered, although he is wearing a prominent strapping. The formation has already been used successfully against top-level opposition such as Milan, Inter and Lazio, where its purpose was to shield the opposing playmaker, in this case Lobotka, and to bring balance to a side that once again has to make a virtue of necessity.

Lorenzo Pellegrini has suffered a high-grade, third-degree tear at the distal musculotendinous junction of the semitendinosus in his right thigh, and will be out for at least three months, probably longer. The injury was sustained in the second half against Slovan, and surgery is now being considered. Roma are preparing for Napoli at the Maradona with a serious lack of options. The diagnosis is a terrible one for a footballer, among the worst muscular injuries. The problem lies not in the muscle belly, which heals faster thanks to its rich blood supply, but at the point where the muscle joins the tendon close to the knee. It is the second consecutive operation Pellegrini faces. He signed a one-year contract in the summer, and this is probably his last at the club given the many physical problems of recent years. Last summer he missed the entire pre-season and returned to the pitch just twelve days ago against Como, playing three short spells before the new injury struck. The injury is a blow for Gasperini, who for at least the next three games must also do without Dybala, as well as Koné and Svilar. With the Maradona clash tomorrow, Roma face a full emergency and forced choices. Bryan Cristante could return in the closing stages, provided he is in acceptable condition to start from the first minute after knee inflammation. In a clash between veteran coaches, with Allegri on 325 Serie A wins and Gasperini on 300, there could also be room for some Primavera players such as Di Nunzio and Arena, at least on the bench.

Lorenzo Pellegrini faces at least two months on the sidelines after tests revealed a high-grade lesion at the distal musculotendinous junction of the semitendinosus in his right thigh, sustained against Slovan Bratislava. Recovery times will be assessed as the clinical picture evolves, but the midfielder could return in the first days of 2027. The setback adds to Roma's injury problems, following those of Svilar, Koné and Dybala. Roma continue preparations for their Serie A clash with Napoli on Saturday at 6pm at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Training took place at Trigoria, and there is positive news from Bryan Cristante, who has returned to regular group work despite visible strapping around his knee. The captain will be available to Gasperini for the match against the Partenopei and could even start from the first minute. Fans of both Napoli and Roma will be able to watch Saturday's match, valid for the eighth round of Serie A, free of charge on DAZN, including non-subscribers. Under the TV rights tender, five matches this season are being broadcast in free mode, and the Maradona fixture is among them. Supporters of both clubs need only log in following the instructions provided by DAZN to access the live stream. With the winter transfer window approaching, Roma have already begun identifying possible reinforcements for Gasperini. According to the English outlet Sport Witness, on Tuesday evening, while Roma beat Slovan Bratislava 4-0 at the Olimpico, several Roma scouts were at the Porto against PSV match. The fixture, won 1-0 by the Dutch side, also drew the attention of several Premier League clubs. Under observation are left-winger Esmir Bajraktarević, born 2005, and midfielder Sven Mijnans, born 2000, who had already been followed in the summer. On Rome radio, the Roma-Napoli fixture has been widely discussed. Luigi Ferrajolo told Radio Radio: "The absences of Koné and Dybala are heavy: Koné is the engine of the midfield and Dybala the inspiration. If Cristante can play, he can push Pisilli a bit further forward. Or Mora plays, hoping he wakes up a bit and makes a greater contribution." Alessandro Vocalelli added: "Roma have already passed some tests: not every match can be an exam. It is a stage in a journey in which the team must perform well, because it can help distance a direct Champions League rival. Physically he seems to be better, but Napoli have resources that make the match anything but simple."

Former Roma midfielder Angelo Di Livio, speaking to Retesport, said he likes the idea of playing Wesley further forward against Napoli, with Molina dropping deeper on the same flank. Di Livio believes Gasperini will be missing two important players, including Dybala, and he questioned Lorenzo Pellegrini's latest injury, asking what fault the player had for having to stop again. Di Livio said Cristante is not well and does not think he can start. He expects Gasperini to have prepared alternative plans in midfield to cover the absences. The attacking absences of Pellegrini and Dybala in the final third are what make the idea of Wesley further up the pitch appealing to him. Di Livio expects Evan Lulli...