Fiorentina preparing for Roma clash with key players returning from injury

Midfielder Koné has returned to group training at Roma's Trigoria facility after approximately six weeks out with a thigh injury sustained in a Europa League match against Bologna. The French midfielder's recovery is a significant boost for head coach Gasperini as the club enters the final phase of the season with Champions League qualification still within reach. Koné is now targeting inclusion in Roma's upcoming fixture against Fiorentina. This recovery follows Paulo Dybala's return to training last week after a three-month absence, providing Gasperini with important reinforcements for the run-in. The squad undertook an afternoon session at Trigoria, though Lorenzo Pellegrini and Artem Dovbyk trained separately. Dovbyk, Roma's Ukrainian striker, continues his recovery work and aims to return for the remaining crucial matches of the season, including the derby against Lazio. Robinio Vaz was also unavailable for training but was granted authorized leave; he is expected to rejoin the group in the following day's session.

Zeki Celik has not suffered an injury and will return to team training or complete differentiated work ahead of Roma's match against Fiorentina on Monday. However, there is near-certainty that the Turkish defender will not renew his contract with Roma. A significant gap remains between the club's offer of approximately 2.8 million euros and Celik's demand of 4 million euros, making an agreement unlikely. Celik is regarded as a trusted player by head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, yet his departure appears set. The club has identified restructuring the flanks as one of Gasperini's absolute priorities. Beyond Celik's likely exit, there is also a concrete possibility that Angelino will leave Roma in the summer. Roma will need to recruit a left-footed starting left-back and another important right-footed player to replace Celik on the right flank. The contract impasse highlights Roma's ongoing squad overhaul under the new coaching regime. These departures would represent significant changes to the club's defensive setup, with Gasperini seeking to reshape the wide positions with new additions.

Manu Koné remains absent from Gasperini's squad, but the Roma head coach hopes to have the midfielder back in action soon. Koné's unavailability has left a gap in Roma's midfield during recent fixtures. The club is monitoring his status closely as they navigate both on-pitch commitments and the transfer window. His return would provide reinforcement to Gasperini's options in the middle of the park, addressing a current shortage in that area.