Bologna vs Roma: Predicted Lineups — El Aynaoui Challenges El Shaarawy
Roma will travel to Bologna in a crucial Serie A match as the club chases Champions League qualification. Manager Gasperini has several key players available for selection, with Brazilian winger Wesley expected to return to the starting lineup. Paulo Dybala is fit but will begin on the bench, leaving the main tactical question centered on the left-wing position. The primary selection debate involves choosing between El Shaarawy and El Aynaoui on the flank, with midfielder Pisilli's positioning dependent on that decision—he could operate in midfield or shift forward as a number 10 depending on the final lineup. Italian newspapers have published their predicted lineups ahead of the fixture, with most outlets favoring El Shaarawy in the starting XI. Gasperini faces this match during a period of organizational upheaval at the club, though Roma cannot afford further slip-ups if they are to maintain their top-four hopes. The Gazzetta dello Sport, Corriere dello Sport, Il Messaggero, and Il Tempo all predict a 3-4-2-1 formation with El Shaarawy starting, while Tuttosport and Corriere della Sera suggest alternatives involving El Aynaoui in the midfield. The expected lineup includes goalkeeper Svilar, defensive trio of Mancini, Ndicka, and Hermoso, with Malen leading the attack.
