Dybala hints at Boca future as Gasperini calls on Friedkin; referee controversy continues

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has requested an urgent in-person meeting with the Friedkin Group to accelerate planning for Roma's future, including strategy, objectives, and technical structure for the next season. Gasperini prefers to meet with the Friedkin ownership directly rather than via video call. The departure of Claudio Ranieri has left uncertainty at the club, with director of sport Massara's position also in question ahead of the 2026–27 campaign. Several scenarios remain open regarding the director of sport role, with candidates including D'Amico and Manna under consideration. Gasperini has clear ideas for building a competitive squad by September. His priority targets include a left winger, with Nusa and Brandt in his sights, alongside coverage for roles that may be exposed from July onwards. Off the field, the Friedkin Group continues working with legal advisers to address the multiownership situation involving Roma and Everton, aiming to demonstrate clear separation between the two clubs to avoid complications for European competition participation. Meanwhile, Paulo Dybala commented on his future, saying: "It would be nice to find Paredes again, but now I play for Roma." An offer of reportedly 15 million euros has been readied for left-back Oosterwolde. Defender Gianluca Mancini noted that Bryan Cristante and Lorenzo Pellegrini are "ideal partners" in midfield. Details on the derby kick-off time remain under review by local authorities.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is developing a clear strategic vision for AS Roma's future, combining potential departures of established players with ambitious recruitment plans. The Piedmont-born tactician aims to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for major honours, blending reliable starters with high-quality additions to the roster. Gasperini's approach reflects a comprehensive reconstruction effort at the club. Among his transfer targets are players of top-tier calibre, including Nusa and Brandt, who represent the quality profile Gasperini seeks to attract. The strategy balances squad renewal through selective sales of key figures with strategic investment in players who can elevate Roma's competitiveness across Serie A and European competitions. This dual approach—intelligent squad management paired with ambitious signings—is central to Gasperini's plan to restore Roma as a genuine title contender. The coach's methodical preparation for the season ahead demonstrates a focus on building depth and versatility throughout the team. By targeting specific profiles and managing departures strategically, Gasperini seeks to create a cohesive unit capable of sustained success. Details remain unclear regarding which players may depart or the timeline for completing transfer business.

Roma are pursuing Napoli director Giovanni Manna as a replacement in their executive structure, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini backing the move. Manna, who has been central to Napoli's recruitment strategy, is highly regarded for balancing youth development with experienced signings. Gasperini believes they will work well together, unlike his current relationship with Roma director Frederic Massara, who is expected to leave the club following the recent departure of former manager Claudio Ranieri. Manna's track record at Napoli includes contributions to signings such as Scott McTominay, Kevin De Bruyne, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Rasmus Hojlund. His experience managing Juventus' youth academy also aligns with Roma's plans to establish a second team. However, Manna remains under contract at Napoli until 2029, making negotiations with owner Aurelio De Laurentiis difficult. Roma's shortlist for the director role also includes Cristiano Giuntoli, Atalanta's Tony D'Amico, and Verona's Sean Sogliano. Looking ahead, Roma will prioritize recruiting a new left-back to allow Wesley to shift to right wing, a pacey forward to replace departures like Leon Bailey and Bryan Zaragoza, and potentially a midfielder depending on whether Manu Koné or Evan N'Dicka are sold.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has requested an urgent in-person meeting with the Friedkin Group to accelerate planning for Roma's future, including strategy, objectives, and technical structure for the next season. Gasperini prefers to meet with the Friedkin ownership directly rather than via video call. The departure of Claudio Ranieri has left uncertainty at the club, with director of sport Massara's position also in question ahead of the 2026–27 campaign. Several scenarios remain open regarding the director of sport role, with candidates including D'Amico and Manna under consideration. Gasperini has clear ideas for building a competitive squad by September. His priority targets include a left winger, with Nusa and Brandt in his sights, alongside coverage for roles that may be exposed from July onwards. Off the field, the Friedkin Group continues working with legal advisers to address the multiownership situation involving Roma and Everton, aiming to demonstrate clear separation between the two clubs to avoid complications for European competition participation. Meanwhile, Paulo Dybala commented on his future, saying: "It would be nice to find Paredes again, but now I play for Roma." An offer of reportedly 15 million euros has been readied for left-back Oosterwolde. Defender Gianluca Mancini noted that Bryan Cristante and Lorenzo Pellegrini are "ideal partners" in midfield. Details on the derby kick-off time remain under review by local authorities.

Paulo Dybala has commented on his future at AS Roma during the summer transfer window. The Argentine forward remains focused on his role with the Giallorossi while expressing enthusiasm about a potential reunion with fellow midfielder Paredes. Dybala's contract situation and performances continue to be central topics for the club as Roma navigates the transfer market. His comments reflect his commitment to Roma while indicating openness to strengthening the squad with familiar faces from his past.

Matteo Guendouzi, the former Lazio midfielder now at Fenerbahce, was caught on camera being told to be quiet by a young child wearing a Galatasaray shirt before a derby match in Istanbul two days ago. The child repeatedly gestured for Guendouzi to stay silent with a smirk, and the moment went viral on social media, particularly among Roma fans. The incident drew comparisons to Paulo Dybala's iconic derby provocations against Lazio, including the famous shin-guard celebration from two years ago and a January 2025 exchange in which Dybala repeatedly mocked Guendouzi while reminding him of his lack of trophies with Lazio. Guendouzi's day in Istanbul ended poorly: Fenerbahce lost the derby 0–3, continuing his poor record in high-stakes matches. He also lost his composure after the final whistle, becoming involved in a brawl and later stating: "I don't want to talk about the referee, he killed the match." The incident reportedly led to the dismissal of Fenerbahce manager Domenico Tedesco. The viral video highlighted Guendouzi's reputation for losing his temper in competitive fixtures, a trait that has made him a frequent target for opponents' psychological tactics.