AS Roma Press Conferences

Rodrigo Mora scored in Roma's 4-2 win over Cagliari and spoke to DAZN afterwards, saying that after a 4-2 result there was no reason to feel bad. The forward said he dreams of being a decisive player and helping the team when it needs him. "Today a goal was needed and I was ready for it," he said. "I think I played other very good matches too. Sometimes you don't score, you don't make assists, and it becomes difficult, but today I scored and helped the team. That is the most important thing." Mora said he has been playing in a different position, having swapped roles with Matías Soulé, and that his performance improved noticeably. Asked about the switch, he said playing on the left suits him better. "Playing on the left is better for me, because I can come inside. I am used to that position, and I think Mati prefers playing on the other side. But we have to be ready to play on both flanks. The most important thing is helping the team to win." On his goal, Mora said he does not score many headers, but that opponents sometimes forget the lower one. "I did not score many headers, but sometimes opponents forget the lower one. So I was there, and I was happy to score such an important goal." Asked about playing under Gian Piero Gasperini with an attacking mindset that pushes forward even when protecting a lead, Mora said the coach always wants the team to play forwards. "Sometimes it is difficult, and I am trying to adapt to this way of playing. But it is nice, because we always think about going forward and scoring more goals. I think it is important for winning matches and, of course, for attacking players like us it is nice to always attack, try to score and take the lead."

Roma defender Emanuele Lulli has spoken about his pleasure at scoring at the Stadio Olimpico, describing it as a dream while stressing the need to stay humble. Speaking after the Roma-Cagliari match, valid for the ninth round of Serie A, he said: "I'm very happy, it's a dream, but the important thing is to remain humble and keep my feet on the ground." Lulli said he feels the trust of the coach, the staff, the club and his teammates, and believes this is the ideal environment in which to improve. His comments came as Roma continued their 2026-27 league campaign at home. His full comments were: "I'm very happy, it's a dream, but the important thing is to remain humble and keep my feet on the ground. I feel the trust from the coach, the staff, the club and my teammates. This is the ideal way to improve."

Pierluigi Gollini, who was in goal for Roma, said the team's ability to win and take points despite not playing at their best is a major credit to the group, and that he had always known his own worth. Gollini made several key saves to keep the result intact, and he is about to hand the number one shirt back to Mile Svilar. Speaking to Dazn, he said: "Sono punti pesanti che ci permettono di stare lì, giocando tante partite non è facile e ci sta ogni tanto che manchi un po' di brillantezza." In English: "These are heavy points that allow us to stay in the race. Playing so many games is not easy, and it's understandable that now and then we lack a bit of brilliance." Gollini stressed that strong, solid sides with important objectives can still pick up points and win even when they are not playing well. "A volte abbiamo portato via un punto che valeva una vittoria, oggi siamo riusciti a portarne via tre. Questo è importante." That is: "Sometimes we have taken away a point that was worth a win; today we managed to take away three. This is important." He praised the squad, saying: "Questo gruppo sta dando tante risposte, sono sempre tutti a disposizione e al massimo." In English: "This group is giving many answers, everyone is always available and at their best." He added: "Questo è un grande credito che ci va dato." Meaning: "This is a great credit that we deserve." Asked whether he expected to see Lulli performing like this, Gollini replied: "L'ho visto in ritiro, tutti pensavamo avesse grande atletismo. La qualità delle scelte in avanti farà la differenza nella sua carriera. Imparare a fare le scelte giuste, sta a lui. Ora sta imparando anche a buttarsi dentro, ma è un bravissimo ragazzo e ha la testa sulle spalle. Ogni tanto lo devo riprendere per difendere, gli piace attaccare, ma è bravo e super-umile. Farà una grande carriera, ne sono sicuro." In English: "I saw him in training; everyone thought he had great athleticism. The quality of his decisions going forward will make the difference in his career. Learning to make the right choices is up to him. Now he's also learning to commit himself, but he is a very good lad with his head on his shoulders. Every so often I have to tell him to defend, he likes to attack, but he is good and super-humble. He will have a great career, I'm sure of it." On his own situation, Gollini said: "Ho giocato poco negli ultimi anni, ma in allenamento mi vedo e i miei compagni mi vedono. Il calcio va super veloce, bastano sei mesi e tutti pensano che tu sia morto. Anche quando non ho giocato, sono sempre stato in ambienti di grande livello e con grandi giocatori. Il mio valore l'ho sempre saputo." In English: "I've played little in recent years, but in training I see myself and my teammates see me. Football moves super fast, six months is all it takes and everyone thinks you're dead. Even when I haven't played, I have always been in top-level environments with great players. I have always known my own value." He added: "Mi dispiace per Mile, che tutti abbracceremo quando tornerà, ma sono contento di aver avuto il mio momento. L'importante è andare avanti e fare il meglio per questa squadra, stiamo facendo una bell'annata e bisogna continuare così." In English: "I feel for Mile, whom we will all embrace when he returns, but I am happy to have had my moment. The important thing is to move forward and do our best for this team; we are having a good season and we must keep it going."

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.

Rodrigo Mora has spoken to reporters after Roma's 2-1 win over Cagliari...

Rodrigo Mora came off the bench to decide the match, heading a goal and then setting up Donyell Malen, with the result secured after Cagliari had equalised. Speaking to DAZN after the game, the Portuguese midfielder said: "Sogno serate così, voglio essere decisivo." Asked whether it was a win for the young players, he replied: "Sì, è un gruppo davvero giovane ma anche forte. Tutti sono pronti a giocare, giovani o più 'vecchi' che siano. La cosa importante è la squadra. Due settimane fa è stato decisivo Soulé, questa sera io nella stessa posizione. A prescindere dall'età, tutti stiamo dando il meglio e rendendo possibile questo percorso." Mora said that his goal and assist came in a difficult match and that helping the team mattered most to him. On playing on the left, he said: "Per me giocare a sinistra è meglio in modo da andare dentro il campo, lo stesso vale per Soulé che parte da destra per accentrarsi. Ma gioco in ogni posizione per aiutare la squadra." Matías Soulé was the player who had been decisive in the same role two weeks earlier. On his header, Mora said: "Non segno tanto di testa, ma qualche volta gli avversari dimenticano il giocatore più basso. Quindi riesco a trovare lo spazio per segnare di testa." On working under Gian Piero Gasperini, he said: "Il mister vuole che andiamo all'attacco, a volte è difficile ma ci proviamo. E' una cosa positiva, pensare sempre a fare gol è importante per vincere le gare." He added that Gasperini had asked him to play with confidence and to take on opponents without fear, and that he could still improve his physical condition. Mora thanked the supporters who kept singing after Cagliari levelled, saying: "Da quando sono arrivato mi hanno accolto benissimo e avevo voglia di una serata così per ripagarli, sono contento di aver segnato. Nel momento più difficile, quando il Cagliari ha pareggiato, i tifosi hanno continuato a cantare e ci hanno dato la spinta per ribaltarla." On starting, he said: "Tutti i giocatori vorrebbero partire titolari ma quello che più importa e che chiunque giochi anche entrando dalla panchina dia il massimo." He acknowledged that adapting to Italian football is a process: "Continuerò a lavorare per guadagnare più minuti."

Roma midfielder Rodrigo Mora has spoken after Roma's ninth Serie A match against Cagliari, saying the performance showed the strength of the club's young players, while stressing the need for everyone to stay ready. Mora scored in the match himself. Asked whether the result was a win for the young players, Mora said: "Yes, we are a very young group, but here everyone is always ready to play, both the young players and the experienced ones. What matters is the team. I scored today, three days ago Mati did. The important thing is that everyone is ready." Mora's comments underline the squad's depth, with the younger players and experienced team-mates both expected to deliver when called on.

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.

Mile Svilar's absence has put Pierluigi Gollini back in the spotlight, and he is now Roma's number one, though only for the time being. The former Atalanta goalkeeper is ready to keep a clean sheet again, this time against Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico. He spoke to Dazn shortly before the match. Roma came back from behind to beat Napoli, and Gollini said the team arrived at this fixture with plenty of determination. "Obviously we are playing a lot, like the others who play in cups," he said. "We arrive very determined, Napoli is behind us. We know what awaits us tonight, we know what to do and how to approach it." Gollini has not played for two years, and he is now trying to prove himself again in goal. Asked for his own assessment after such a long absence, he said: "I feel good and I am trying to show that I am of a high level. But the important thing is Roma and making an important contribution."

Roma left Naples with a draw that still rankles, not so much for the point as for how the match unfolded: they started poorly and nearly conceded against a good Napoli side. The Maradona clash is still being talked about, particularly among coaches, and Napoli's Ivan Juric, speaking at his press conference, devoted some time to it. Juric praised Napoli's performance over the opening hour, while acknowledging the threat Roma posed later in the game. He said Roma were physically devastating once they got going and pushed hard. He also pointed to a change in Napoli's style, which he sees as far more attacking now, with pressing and forward play, a noticeable departure from the Allegri-era side he was used to when Massimiliano Allegri coached Milan and Juventus. Juric's full comments: "Contro la Roma ho visto un Napoli favoloso per 60 minuti. Doveva andare sul 3-0, ho visto una squadra di una qualità immensa. Poi la Roma è stata fisicamente devastante, hanno spinto tanto. Adesso il gioco del Napoli mi sembra molto molto più offensivo, in pressing, in avanti. Un po' diverso rispetto all'Allegri a cui ero abituato quando allenava Milan e Juventus."

Roma host Cagliari at the Stadio Olimpico tonight (kickoff 20:45, Dazn), with Gian Piero Gasperini preparing to rotate his squad after a demanding start to the season. Paulo Dybala is expected to return, at least on the bench, and Gasperini has indicated changes are coming because the team plays every three days. The fixture is the first of five matches on paper more manageable than the opening eight rounds, which saw Roma face Atalanta, Como, Inter and Napoli. Gasperini said: "He is feeling better, I am confident. We will change something since we play every three days. The squad has shown it can rotate during matches." Roma's next trip is to Udine on Saturday, and the coach is looking to share the midfield load, with Cristante expected to return to midfield to give de Roon a little breathing space. Gasperini gave a positive assessment of the campaign so far: "The attitude is always excellent, some technical errors are fine because we are not machines. We scored 2 goals against Inter, 3 against Real and 3 against Napoli, showing we are not an inch less than them and that we can compete on equal terms. So far I am really satisfied." He singled out Soulé as one of the players improving rapidly: "He has played all high-level matches. We are talking about a 23-year-old who still has wide margins of maturity that can make him stronger and stronger." Asked about Lulli's contract renewal, Gasperini said: "He deserves it, I am happy for him." The winger has extended his deal with Roma until 2031 and is expected to start tonight. Mora gets another chance, while at least one of Ghilardi and Balerdi will play in defence. Malen, described as a fixed starter, is looking for a goal after a drought at the Maradona, and Wesley may be rested.

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 coach Gian Piero Gasperini has said the club have come through their recent big matches very well, describing the run as positive ahead of the trip to Cagliari. Speaking on the eve of the match, Gasperini said: "Sono state tre partite diverse ma belle. Nelle tre gare ne siamo usciti molto bene, non so se meritavamo di più ma di sicuro non di meno" — "They were three different but beautiful matches. In the three games we came out of them very well. I don't know if we deserved more, but certainly not less." The comments come as Gasperini reflects on three demanding fixtures for the Giallorossi, with his side taking positives from how they performed across the run. The coach's assessment frames the period as a constructive one for the squad as they head into the Cagliari game. Gasperini's remarks were published on 26 October 2026 by the Italian outlet Forzaroma.info, which also carried a series of related Roma stories on the same day, including updates on the injured players and comments on Paulo Dybala's recovery.

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has responded to comments attributed to Massimiliano Allegri, saying the remark was an unfortunate one and that nobody agrees with it. Speaking after Roma's match at the Maradona, Gasperini addressed the phrase attributed to his counterpart. Gasperini said: "There are the numbers, the testimonies, the data, on the matches from last year. I haven't read a single favourable comment on this observation." He added that the claim had no support in the evidence he had seen, and he was clear that the view was not shared by others in the game. The exchange comes amid a busy week for the Giallorossi, with Gasperini also giving an update on injured players, including Paulo Dybala, whom he said he was confident about returning from injury. Allegri has also been in the headlines after a disciplinary ruling following the Napoli-Roma fixture, in which he received a two-match suspension and a 10,000 euro fine.

Gian Piero Gasperini has offered encouraging news on Paulo Dybala ahead of Roma's home match against Cagliari, which is scheduled for tomorrow at the Stadio Olimpico. The Roma coach said Dybala could return to the squad for the fixture, with a final decision to be made only after the afternoon training session. Roma are returning to action after a draw against Napoli, and Gasperini is still dealing with several absences. Dybala is the player with the best chance of an immediate return, and his possible selection would give Gasperini an extra option, although his availability is not yet certain. The news is less positive for Manu Koné, who is not expected back in the short term. Mile Svilar, meanwhile, is nearing a return, which would be a boost for Roma's goalkeeping options. The Champions League trip to Manchester United on 3 November is the key target for Svilar, with the Sassuolo league match the fallback. Gasperini said: "The only possible one is Dybala, we'll try this afternoon, maybe I can take him onto the bench, I am confident." On Koné, he added: "Koné is unlikely before the break. Svilar could arrive this week, Thursday or Friday, with the benefit of the doubt, or next week. For Manchester that would be the maximum, or maybe Sassuolo." Roma's trip to Manchester United in the Champions League is on 3 November, and Gasperini's cautious wording suggests Svilar's return will be managed carefully.

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 coach Gian Piero Gasperini addressed the press at the Fulvio Bernardini training centre in Trigoria on Monday 26 October, two days ahead of Roma's Serie A ninth-round match against Cagliari, which kicks off on Tuesday 27 October at 20:45 at the Stadio Olimpico. The coach was speaking just over 48 hours after the dramatic 3-3 draw at the Maradona against Napoli. Paulo Dybala is the only possible returnee from injury and is close to being back in the squad, with Gasperini saying he has good confidence and will decide that afternoon whether Dybala goes on the bench. Rotations are probable, but will depend on the opponent. Cagliari are coached by Fabio Pisacane. Gasperini also addressed the recent controversy with Massimiliano Allegri. Asked about the impact of Allegri's comment, he said: "I didn't hear it, you reported it and surely it was like that. There are the numbers, the testimonies, the data, on last year's matches. I haven't read a favourable comment on this observation, which was without doubt unfortunate. There's no need to add anything else." On the squad's progress, he said the improvement is continuous, adding: "We have reached a way of playing and facing matches that we can repeat over time. There is growth across the whole squad but also individually in many players. The environment also pushes us to be brave and proactive, to face the toughest matches and always do our part." On Matías Soulé, who has been described as a technical leader, Gasperini said: "Unfortunately he had a stop for a groin problem. But this year he restarted from the first half of last season. The other evening he was extraordinary, but the previous ones were also of high level. He is 23 and sometimes we forget it. He still has margins of maturity in every aspect that can make him ever stronger. He is playing in several roles, even on the right, as a full-back, and the other evening he played as a trequartista and scored. He has an important maturity and confidence. He loses fewer balls but can still improve. He works very well to grow, and he was also called up with Argentina, which is another good sign." On Lulli, who is close to a contract renewal, Gasperini said: "No, there we have four players doing very well. Rensch is doing very well, Molina has a very high performance level, Wesley is now a player of absolute value. I'm happy for Lulli, he deserves it. Everyone's goal is to improve individually to make the team even stronger." On conceding in big matches, he said: "Our attitude is always very positive. The goals are all different; in those against Real Madrid we were more at fault than in Anguissa's, who scored a masterpiece. We are not machines, sometimes we make technical errors. The approach however is always positive." He also praised the defensive set-piece work and said Hermoso had defended on Diomandé, Vinicius and then Endrick against Real. On the three draws in big matches, he said: "They were three different but good games. In all three we came out very well, we perhaps deserved more but certainly not less. We haven't won but neither have the others." On Napoli, he added: "We found ourselves 2-0 down but we came back and had the confidence we could win. Then we thought we had lost it and then we equalised again. We must look at the 90 minutes." On injuries, Gasperini said Koné is unlikely to be available before the international break, while Svilar could return on Thursday or Friday but with doubts. He added: "We hope to have him for Manchester or for the last one against Sassuolo." He said the squad must focus on itself, noting the spell without Svilar and others such as Dybala, Koné and Pellegrini, and that the injuries are a consequence of playing every three days. Asked about regaining possession in the opponent's box, he said: "We have been working on it for a long time. It is not always like that, but looking for recovery even in the opponent's area is a characteristic we have often put on the pitch."

Roma defender Daniele Ghilardi has spoken about his mentality, pressure and leadership in a short interview recorded during the national team camp. Speaking on the subject of performing under pressure, he said: "Do il meglio sotto pressione. Disciplina, personalità e talento, questo per me è l'ordine" – in English, "I give my best under pressure. Discipline, personality and talent, for me that is the order." Asked what kind of leader he prefers within a team, Ghilardi was clear: "Meglio un leader silenzioso, che parla nel momento giusto e con i modi giusti" – "I'd rather have a silent leader, one who speaks at the right moment and in the right way." The centre-back's comments paint a picture of a player who avoids grand statements and prefers to earn his place through work and conduct on the pitch. Ghilardi also addressed how he manages his physical limits during a match: "Se sono esausto ma riesco a dare ancora qualcosa resto in campo, se ho i crampi è giusto far entrare altri" – "If I'm exhausted but can still give something, I stay on the pitch; if I have cramps, it's right to bring others on." That approach fits with what Gian Piero Gasperini demands from his players: intensity, aggression and a willingness to sacrifice. Fresh from a convincing performance in the Champions League against Slovan Bratislava, Ghilardi is working to carve out an increasingly important role in the Roma defence. His interview shows a defender who links his tactical discipline directly with his personal leadership style, and who is keen to make his case for a regular place in the backline.

Daniele Adani has criticised Massimiliano Allegri, the Napoli coach, over a remark aimed at Roma, saying Allegri should apologise to the Giallorossi. Adani, who has historically not seen eye to eye with Allegri, is reportedly in unanimous agreement with others on this occasion, following what the article describes as a clumsy verbal slip by the Napoli boss against the Rome club. Adani said: "If this is confirmed, I hope Allegri apologises for this allusion, which would be pathetic and disrespectful towards Roma, towards Gasperini and towards football." His comments centre on the reference to Roma and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, whom he defends directly. The remarks have drawn criticism beyond Adani, and the controversy places Roma's name at the centre of a debate between two Serie A coaches. Adani's call for an apology underlines how strongly he views the comment as an affront to the club and to its head coach.

Mati Soulé's goal and display at Napoli have put the Argentine at the heart of Roma's recovery, with Leonardo Balerdi scoring twice in a 2-2 draw at the Maradona. Soulé's strike, which started Roma's comeback, is considered one of the best he has scored since joining the club. The Argentine has been one of the standout performers in recent weeks, having already been among the best players against Real Madrid and Genoa. The winger's rise is clear. He had looked close to leaving during a difficult summer, but he stayed at the club and Gian Piero Gasperini is now enjoying having him. Balerdi's double was his 12th goal of the season. Soulé's influence went beyond scoring: he delivered 4 key passes, completed 88% of his passes, won eight duels, completed four dribbles and recovered the ball four times. Journalist Francesco Balzani wrote in Leggo that he was valuable both going forward and in defence, so much so that Roma did not miss Paulo Dybala. Gasperini said after the match: "It was extraordinary, really." It has been a golden month for Soulé, following his call-up and senior debut with the Argentina national team. He shares that success with Balerdi, as well as Molina and Castro, who were important in salvaging Napoli's crazy draw. Max Allegri's Napoli had been the opponent. Allegri, speaking to several journalists and Roma staff, shouted: "Last year they put the Champions League in Roma's pocket, they are always them." He was referring to the comeback Milan suffered at the end of last season, a reference that the Napoli coach should himself take responsibility for. The remark angered the Giallorossi, who now expect a Federal Prosecutor's investigation, while Gasperini is due to respond at his press conference today. For Cagliari tomorrow, Soulé will again partner Malen, while Dybala will start on the bench after training with the group yesterday. There is good news too about Svilar, who should recover before the international break and be available at least against Sassuolo, when Koné will also return.

Cagliari are preparing for their Serie A clash with Roma after losing 2-0 to Bologna the previous day. The players gathered at the CRAI Sport Center on Sunday morning to begin preparations for the match, which is the midweek fixture for Matchday 9 and is scheduled for the Stadio Olimpico on Tuesday 27 October with a 20:45 kickoff. Cagliari coach Pisacane split the squad into two work groups. Players who featured most heavily against Bologna carried out recovery sessions between the pitch and the gym, while the others took part in technical and possession drills. The squad trains again on Monday 26 October in the morning before travelling to Rome in the afternoon. Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is scheduled to speak to the media at Trigoria at 13:30, one hour after Pisacane's press conference at 12:30. Pisacane's press conference is set for 12:30 on Monday, giving Cagliari's view of the trip to the capital ahead of the Roma match. Gasperini's session follows an hour later at 13:30 at Trigoria, bringing both coaches before the cameras on the same afternoon.

Journalist Maurizio Pistocchi has called for the Federal Prosecutor's Office to open an investigation into Massimiliano Allegri after the Napoli-Roma match, claiming the Napoli coach's remarks are very serious and suggest a sporting offence committed by third parties to favour Roma. In a social media post, Pistocchi wrote: "The statements by Allegri reported after the Napoli-Roma post-match press conference are very serious: he suggests a sporting offence, committed by third parties to favour Roma? He will answer before the Federal Prosecutor's Office, which will obviously have to open an investigation." The remarks came after a fiery end to the match, which was marked by protests and a jacket that Allegri removed and nearly threw. According to Pistocchi, Allegri was not fully clear-headed after the game, as he admitted himself in his post-match comments. Off the record, in the press room, Allegri let slip an unfortunate line: "Last year they put the Champions League in their pocket. Always them..." Pistocchi concluded: "Whatever happens, it is a terrible look." He added that the episode reflects poorly on Allegri, both in sporting terms and on the pitch, a stain the Napoli coach will carry with him.

Massimiliano Allegri's post-match outburst after Napoli's 3-3 draw with Roma at the Maradona has sparked a row, with Roma hitting back that their Champions League qualification was earned on the pitch. The Napoli coach was sent off late in the match, after Balerdi's equaliser, when Napoli protested a foul in the build-up to the goal. Away from the official microphones, Allegri reportedly said: "Sempre loro… L'anno scorso gli hanno messo la Champions in tasca. L'ho pagata con il Milan". The remark refers to last season, when Roma secured Champions League qualification on the pitch while Allegri's Milan finished outside the top four. According to Fabrizio Romano, posting on his WhatsApp channel, Roma were "surprised and irritated" by the coach's comments and consider the attack "fuori luogo", or out of place. The club's position is clear: "la qualificazione alla Champions della passata stagione è stata conquistata sul campo, senza alcun presunto aiuto arbitrale", meaning the qualification was won on the pitch, without any alleged refereeing help. The response has not come through an official statement but was relayed clearly after Allegri's words began circulating overnight, and the tone shows how much the remark irritated the club. Allegri had already shown his frustration before the cameras, saying he was too angry to analyse the match clearly and contesting the referee's decision to send him off. His private comment turned a protest about the officiating at Napoli-Roma into a wider dispute, reopening a wound Allegri evidently carries from last season. Roma, however, consider that qualification the result of their own route and their consistent form across the league, and do not intend to accept insinuations of any other kind.

Roma came from behind to draw with Napoli, and coach Gian Piero Gasperini said his side had shown great resilience and character away from home. Roma were still behind until the final minute, a result that leaves them feeling satisfied, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport's Andrea Pugliese, although Gasperini always aims to win and had hoped to take all three points at Napoli. Gasperini said: "There is awareness, we are playing good football. The morale is high and the feeling is that we have lost two points. But given how the match went, that is fine too. We certainly played against a strong Napoli, and if you are competitive against teams of this calibre it means you can compete with many sides in Italy." He felt the Roma side of the second half and the end of the first half was better than the side that started rather cautiously. Gasperini added: "I am satisfied, except for the first half hour. Napoli were superior to us there, we suffered it, we were in difficulty and struggled to get out. They had an extra gear, and Politano worked very well and created more than one problem for us. Then we managed to get to grips with them and grew stronger, already towards the end of the first half. In the second half we played well, we had the feeling inside that we could win the match, with great conviction. We were good at that, there was never any frenzy. We kept our way of playing and quality goals came too." Roma were pegged back despite a 3-2 scoreline in McTominay's favour that seemed to have settled the match. Gasperini said: "That was a hammer blow because there was little time to recover. But inside we felt strong and we were good at pulling it back again. Even though we had the feeling we could turn it around before." Balerdi scored the decisive goals, Soulé pulled one back, and Ndicka was a giant in defence. Gasperini said: "Soulé played an extraordinary match, exactly like Ndicka."

Gianluca Mancini said a point was a fair result after Roma's Serie A matchday 8 clash at Napoli, played at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. Roma conceded three goals, the same number they had let in across the rest of the league campaign, and Mancini admitted that was a problem for the defenders. Asked about it, he said: "Quello si, purtroppo ci sono partite in cui li prendi. Dobbiamo rivedere il primo tempo dove abbiamo subito molte occasioni." He pointed to the first half, where Roma faced a lot of chances, and to the first goal, scored by Anguissa, where he felt the team could have managed the ball better. Mancini described a Roma side that refuses to give up. He said the team had never shown that habit before, apart from one game last year in Milan, and that the squad keeps creating chances in every match. He said Napoli are one of the strong sides they had to face, and that the players who came on did not lower the tempo, with the team staying reactive at its highest level. On the question of whether the new arrivals had raised the standard, he agreed that this was what the squad had been missing, adding that the newcomers were strong and young. Mancini said: "Mollare non l'abbiamo mai fatto, forse una partita l'anno scorso a Milano. Quest'anno ci crediamo sempre, creiamo occasioni, poi ci sono le squadre forti come il Napoli. Oggi chiunque è entrato non ha abbassato il ritmo della partita e la squadra rimane sempre reattiva al massimo. Siamo contenti." On the newcomers, he added: "Assolutamente sì, era quello che ci mancava. Sono arrivati tutti ragazzi forti, giovani. Leo è stato capitano in una squadra importante come il Marsiglia. Diamo tutto per questa maglia per portare a casa sempre il risultato." On the concessions, he said: "Anche sul gol di Anguissa potevamo gestire meglio la palla, sul secondo sapevamo la forza di McTominay in area e il terzo dalla distanza. Fa parte di queste partite, l'importante è reagire e non abbattersi. Per come si era messa un punto va bene."

Leonardo Balerdi spoke to Dazn after Roma's draw with Napoli, saying he feels he is getting further forward and that Gasperini is giving him more freedom to push on. Balerdi said: "What a match and what a reaction. It's the first double of my career. Now I'm getting a bit more involved, I saw it from Mancini and Hermoso. Today we wanted to win but at least we take a point home." Asked about the secret behind his current form, Balerdi credited the coach: "Gasperini is teaching me these new movements, he gives me more freedom to go forward." He also pointed to the freedom to get into the box as a key part of his game at the moment. When asked whether Roma can dream, Balerdi said: "I feel very good here, I've said it since day one. I've been welcomed really well, it feels like I've been here for three years. And that's thanks to the group."

Gianluca Mancini has said Roma never give up, speaking to Dazn after the 1-1 draw with Napoli. Asked about the team's attitude, he said: "It's a Roma that never gives up. You're right. We never give up, we only gave up against Inter last year. We create the chances and we have never been downcast. This is the sign of a great team, and it's important that the substitutes come on well and give intensity. Today I am very happy." Mancini was also asked whether Roma are stronger than last year. He said the new arrivals are strong and young, and that the club's depth has grown. He noted that Leonardo Balerdi is not young but has brought experience and leadership. "All those who have arrived are strong and have increased the value of the squad. Roma is the most important thing, we give everything for this shirt." Last season's collapse against Inter was therefore not forgotten, and Mancini framed this year's group as a response to it. On the match itself, Mancini said: "We need to review the first half. The goals we conceded are part of games like this. What matters is not to be downcast and to react. Given how the game had gone, it turned out well."

Gianluca Mancini has said Roma never give up, speaking in full after the Napoli-Roma clash, an Serie A matchday eight fixture. "This Roma doesn't give up. We never have. This season we always believe, against strong teams we have never been knocked down. We believed, today Molina, Ghilardi, Balerdi and the others who came on added extra quality, the team always stays active. We're happy." Mancini was asked how the newcomers have settled in. "We were missing a bit, they have all arrived strong and young. Balerdi has brought leadership, Molina and De Roon, everyone who has arrived has increased the value of the squad. Last year we missed that a bit. We give everything for this shirt to bring home the result." On Anguissa's goal, Mancini said: "Sometimes you get them, other times you don't. How the Anguissa goal came about, we could have managed the ball better. It's part of these matches. The important thing was not to let ourselves be knocked down. Given how the game had gone, a point is fine."

Nahuel Molina has spoken at a press conference after Roma's draw with Napoli, saying the point is fair and important for the club on a difficult ground. Molina has been used both on the right and, at times, on the left of the back line, and he says he is happy wherever the coach asks him to play. Roma are keeping pace near the top of the table, and Molina admits the result was a helpful one given the club's ambitions. Asked how he feels about rotating with his fellow wide players, Molina said: "Bene, tranquillo. Sappiamo che ci sono tante partite quindi sono tranquillo e contento se gioca un altro compagno. Siamo una squadra." He was signed to play on the right, and he has also featured on the left, a switch the coach asked him to consider when he arrived. "E' una scelta del mister. Mi ha chiesto se potevo giocare anche a sinistra quando sono arrivato. Ho sempre giocato a destra, ma mi trovo bene anche a sinistra. Dove gioco sono contento, sono venuto per aiutare la squadra in tutti i modi." On the result, Molina said: "Alla fine penso che il pareggio sia giusto. Anche il Napoli ha fatto una grande partita. Volevamo vincere e portare punti a casa, ma alla fine è un punto importante in questo campo per restare sopra." Asked how hard it is to come on in a complex situation, he replied: "Non lo so. Ci alleniamo tutti i giorni per questo e penso che tutti dobbiamo essere concentrati per il nostro momento, non si sa mai cosa possa succede. Sono entrato nel secondo tempo e per fortuna è andata bene." Roma have played Como, Inter and Napoli recently. Asked which of the three sides had caused them most problems, Molina said: "Non so dirtelo. Sicuramente in tutte e tre le partite potevamo fare meglio e più punti. Non abbiamo perso. Dobbiamo continuare così e migliorare ogni partita per essere sopra fino alla fine." Speaking to DAZN, Molina added: "Si certamente. Avevamo tanta voglia di portare punti a casa. Anche loro hanno fatto grande partita, penso che il punto sia buono per noi. Soprattutto se vogliamo essere lassù." On whether Roma can dream of more, he said: "Io ci credo tanto in questa Roma, però bisogna lavorare e continuare a pensare di vincere ogni partita. Abbiamo un grande gruppo e tutta la gente dietro che lavora con noi. Io la penso così, se tutti abbiamo la stessa quadra abbiamo grandi possibilità." Finally, on the Argentine group at the club, Molina said: "Questo è bellissimo, trovarsi tanti argentini in questo gruppo è bello. Siamo in cinque. Noi pensiamo a vincere, non importante se siamo in panchina. Noi portiamo il sangue e siamo sempre a disposizione del mister."

Roma drew 3-3 at Napoli in Serie A's eighth round, and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini said his side had come back from a difficult opening half hour with strong belief. Speaking before and after the match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, Gasperini said: "I'm satisfied, except for the first half hour. Napoli were superior and we were in difficulty. They had an extra gear, then we finished the first half well. In the second half we played well and had the feeling we could win. We had great conviction."

Gian Piero Gasperini has spoken to Dazn ahead of Roma's match against Napoli, praising Bryan Cristante's return as an important boost for the squad. Roma have lost Lorenzo Pellegrini, but Gasperini says Cristante's value to the team is significant. Gasperini described the fixture as a match between sides of quality, adding: "Napoli-Roma is a match between teams of quality. They are two of the best in the league, it is an important game." Cristante is a key return, and the coach explained the reasoning behind his impact on the side. Gasperini said: "Yes, because in that area we have often played with the same men. His value is important. It makes the team more versatile, we can play him in the deeper midfield role. It gives us the chance to have variations." Asked how much the match could shape the season, he said: "It is difficult to say now, but if we win today it is a further step in awareness. It would be a great boost."

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini spoke after Napoli-Roma, the eighth matchday fixture of Serie A, which finished 3-2. He admitted Napoli were the better side for the first half hour, with Roma struggling to get out of their own half and to create chances. Roma improved late in the first half, and Gasperini said he was pleased, adding that the team had felt they could win. He said the third Napoli goal could have undone them, but that Roma did well to come back. Gasperini praised his side's calm approach. He said there was no panic, that the team kept its own way of playing, and that the goals were of good quality. He said the side had arrived with several players, and that the energy of those who came on from the bench had made a difference. He singled out Soulé as outstanding and said many players had played a good game. Roma, he said, are in a good moment, playing good football and aiming to push on as far as they can, with high morale. He also said that, given the result, the side almost felt they had dropped two points, but that the 3-2 scoreline meant the outcome was fine. On the fixture's standing, Gasperini said Roma had been competitive against the best sides in all three of their recent matches. He pointed to the draw with Inter, where Roma came close to winning, and to the match against Como, when Roma were down to ten men for the whole second half. He called facing Napoli, given their current strength, a fresh test, and said that coming back to level had been a good boost. He also gave strong praise to Balerdi and De Roon, saying that when he arrived he was convinced they were leaders and that their contribution in recent weeks had been extraordinary from the start. He said De Roon found it easier, having played many years in Serie A, while Balerdi showed extraordinary energy and scored a brace, a great reinforcement for the club. Asked whether the brace was a good sign given Caldara's double, Gasperini said this was a different side, adding that Napoli had always been a major reference point and that competing with them gives you the strength to take on other teams. He also said Allegri had seemed very nervous, but joked that he hoped it was not because of him. Gasperini said the flexibility of Cristante was important in the team's midfield. He explained that the side had often had to play with the same players in that area, and that Cristante's value allowed Roma to play him as the deep midfielder or to come in between the two and push another player forward, which gave the team options. Asked whether the match could shape the season, Gasperini said it was still too early to talk in definitive terms, but that winning at Napoli would be a big push and a further proof of confidence and strength.

Napoli defender Benoît Badiashile has spoken to Dazn ahead of the club's match against Roma, praising Roma forward Donyell Malen and saying Napoli will need to work as a unit to stop him. Asked how he is settling in, Badiashile said: "I'm happy to be here. At the start it was tough, but now I feel good." On how to deal with Malen, a player he knows well, Badiashile said: "I played against him when he was at Aston Villa, he is really strong. We will have to work as a team to stop him." The comments come before a meeting between Napoli and Roma, with Malen one of the attacking threats Napoli have identified ahead of kick-off. Badiashile's remarks focus on the collective defensive effort required rather than any individual plan.