Koné closing in on return: potential starter against Fiorentina?

AS Roma face an uncertain situation regarding director Massara, with Paratici reportedly being considered as a potential successor. Meanwhile, midfielder Manu Koné is expected to return to action against Fiorentina after a lengthy absence. Koné has been sidelined since March 19 following a right hamstring injury sustained during the Europa League round-of-16 second leg. Striker Dovbyk is also expected to return to training in the coming week after recent injury recovery. The club's medical situation has stabilized following recent returns of Wesley and Dybala. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini will need a full squad as Roma pursue their Champions League qualification hopes in the final stretch of the season. El Aynaouï will miss the Fiorentina fixture due to suspension after playing in Roma's recent match at Bologna, where he delivered a solid tactical performance with accurate passes and well-timed movements. Competition for Roma's targets appears to be increasing, with multiple clubs vying for players linked to the Giallorossi, including midfielder Brandt. The coming week is shaping up as crucial for Gasperini's squad depth as Roma navigate the closing stages of their campaign.

Fiorentina manager Paolo Vanoli expressed optimism about Roberto Piccoli's availability for the upcoming Serie A match against Roma. Piccoli missed Fiorentina's recent draw with Sassuolo due to a left adductor strain, an issue that had already affected him during the previous fixture against Lecce. Vanoli stated: "He already had a problem against Lecce. Now I hope to have him back against Roma." The fixture carries significance for both clubs as Fiorentina continues its push toward safety. The Viola secured a nine-point advantage over Cremonese with four matches remaining, and the forthcoming encounter with Gian Piero Gasperini's Roma represents a key test in their survival bid. Roma, currently managed by Gasperini, will travel to face Fiorentina in what shapes as a competitive mid-table clash. Piccoli's potential return would bolster Fiorentina's attacking options at a critical stage of the season. The club will assess his fitness status over the coming days before confirming team selection for the Roma match.

Paulo Dybala returned to action for AS Roma in the match against Bologna after three months out with a knee injury. The Argentine forward's comeback comes at a critical juncture for the club, which faces four remaining matches with 12 points available in their bid to secure Champions League qualification after an eight-year absence. Dybala's performance in these final matches will be significant not only for Roma's European hopes but also in determining his future at the club beyond the current season. Dybala's contract renewal remains uncertain but possible. While the player reportedly wants to stay in Rome, an agreement must be reached that satisfies both the Argentine and the club financially. Recent organizational changes, including the departure of former manager Claudio Ranieri and the probable separation from club official Massara, mean that head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's opinion will carry considerable weight in decisions about Dybala's future. Gasperini is reportedly keen to retain Dybala for next season. Dybala will attempt to contribute in Roma's final push toward a Champions League place, an achievement that could represent a turning point in the club's season. His return to fitness comes as Roma's medical team reported other squad members also becoming available for selection.