Bruno Conti departs Roma after 53 years; youth academy overhaul required

Paulo Dybala has reaffirmed his desire to end his career at Roma, speaking two days before the club's Champions League visit from Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Olimpico. When asked where he would like to live out that final chapter, Dybala said: "At Roma and with the Roma. But it is premature to talk about it now." Dybala reflected on his connection to Italy, which has become fundamental to both his life and career. He said: "I would never have imagined making a career like this here. This country welcomed me with open arms, the people made me grow as a man and a footballer, there are many emotions here, beautiful moments and sad moments, as is life for any person. I hope there can be an Italian finale." The Argentine's remarks underline the deepening bond between the player and the Roma environment as the club enters a crucial phase of their Champions League campaign. Dybala also addressed Roma's return to Europe's elite competition, which the squad pursued at length last season. He said: "We gave everything last season. It brought joy to us and the fans. And also pride. It will be difficult, we are facing some of the most decorated teams in the world, but with the push from our people we will have something more." Wednesday's match against Real Madrid represents one of those occasions the player and club have worked toward.

José Mourinho and Daniele De Rossi will both return to the Olimpico as opposing figures within four days this week, marking an emotional reunion with Roma's fanbase. Mourinho, now managing Real Madrid, will arrive on Wednesday for the first time since his traumatic dismissal on 16 January 2024. De Rossi will follow four days later. The midweek fixture also marks the return of the Champions League to Roma's home ground after seven years. Mourinho had initially considered attending De Rossi's first match in a Roma shirt to greet supporters, but decided against it and has not entered the Foro Italico since his exit. De Rossi, who came in as Mourinho's replacement in 2024 before being dismissed himself months later, previously experienced the discomfort of returning as an opponent a year ago—his first visit to the stadium after 20 years at the club. Both departures, though different in their circumstances, have left distinct marks on the relationship between the players and the Friedkin Group ownership. Mourinho told Corriere dello Sport: "It will be difficult and strange—making that journey on the coach without the affection of the fans, arriving at via dei Gladiatori and the tennis courts." He added: "I have to defend myself emotionally, it will be hard. What do I expect? Only respect—I gave everything for Roma." The Olimpico is expected to be full to capacity on Wednesday to support Gasperini's Roma while also honouring Mourinho's legacy, a connection that stretches back through the sustained atmosphere he helped create during his tenure.

Mile Svilar has suffered a stress fracture to his little finger and will not return before 21 November, when Roma face Parma. Pierluigi Gollini takes over in goal for a goalkeeper who has otherwise served as a squad presence during his first season and a half at the club, having played only once — against Panathinaikos, when he was at fault for a Greek goal. Gollini's spell in the first team comes as coach Gian Piero Gasperini sends a signal to the ownership. The Friedkin Group is selling Everton and intends to shift focus increasingly toward Roma and ice hockey's NHL. Gasperini is urging them to honour that commitment with direct involvement. He believes the squad can achieve something significant this season and is also preparing for the club's centenary year. Gasperini made his case explicit in recent remarks. "A society is important when the ownership is involved," he said. He then revealed: "With the Friedkin we haven't spoken in a month." The message is clear: the manager wants greater presence from ownership as Roma push for success.