Carina: Roma behind in squad construction; Pruzzo unimpressed by Koulierakis display

Roma legend Roberto Pruzzo has urged the club to pursue Dodô rather than invest in Read, arguing that the side needs proven certainty this season. Speaking on Radio Radio, Pruzzo said: "Read? The Roma should go for Dodô instead of investing in a 20-year-old prospect. This year the giallorossi must seek certainties and it would be better to go for a safe experienced player. Before investing 30 million on a player who already knows Serie A." Pruzzo's intervention reflects ongoing debate over Roma's transfer strategy and the balance between youth development and immediate squad reinforcement. Meanwhile, radio commentator Piero Torri raised broader concerns about the club's direction during an appearance on Radio Manà Manà Sport. Torri stated: "Roma in recent years has been losing a bit of romanismo inside itself. I think of the departure of Claudio Ranieri, and obviously the failure to bring Francesco Totti in giallorosso. There the situation has been without news for a long time." Torri's remarks highlight frustration among observers about the club's handling of two figures closely associated with Roma's identity—Ranieri's exit from his managerial role in 2025 and the ongoing discussions surrounding Totti's potential involvement in the club's 2027 centenary plans.

Roma's transfer strategy dominated Roman radio discussion on 4 August 2026, with prominent voices divided over the club's pursuit of Read and wider recruitment targets. Alessandro Vocalelli argued Roma should not rush into signings, stating: "I prefer to wait to sign an important player rather than sign a mediocre footballer straight away." He criticised Gasperini's squad retention, suggesting players like Svilar—who has reached a level where "it would have been a bargain to sell him for 60 or 70 million"—should have been sold. Luigi Ferrajolo warned that failing to land Read would represent a third failed negotiation, citing systemic problems: "The problem with Roma is that it cannot get the players it wants." Francesco Balzani claimed Roma believed it could close Read's deal on 4 August, having moved close to Feyenoord's asking price, but stressed the club must now look elsewhere. He also highlighted a paradox over Lorenzo Pellegrini, who has been out of contract for weeks with an agreement in place—yet awaiting Friedkin Group approval to finalise terms. Roberto Pruzzo advocated shifting focus away from Read: "Roma should go for Dodo instead of investing in a 20-year-old prospect. This year the Giallorossi must seek certainties and it would be better to go for a proven player. Before investing 30 million on a footballer who already knows Serie A." Ugo Trani predicted Roma would pursue Fofana if Nusa fell through, noting that the squad must be ready in 20 days, with the left-winger position still incomplete.

Paolo Marcacci's weekly ratings column examines the week in football, with several entries touching on Roma's early summer activity. Angeliño earns praise for his dignified handling of adversity both on and off the pitch, while his standing with Roma supporters remains firm regardless of what lies ahead. Gasperini's words have sealed the club's confidence in the Castro purchase, a signing valued favourably against recent acquisitions, and the coach's comments at Cardiff reflect a measured impatience: with twenty days until the season opener, more players are still needed despite the calibre of those already recruited. Pellegrini's contract situation continues toward resolution, though lingering hesitation leaves an air of awkwardness surrounding the matter. The column also revisits Franco Baresi's legacy as one of football's rarest defenders—a player who would have been exceptional in any era. His influence on Milan's honours, including their first Scudetto with Rivera and Capello, transcended the ceremonial role of captain. Meanwhile, Dybala's preseason has impressed, with a clean knee and renewed stability allowing his creativity and hunger for consistency to flourish. The broader narrative captures Roma's transfer strategy and the coach's patient but increasingly urgent call for more depth before the campaign begins.