The Bergamo Model at Trigoria: Why Friedkin Chose Gasperini

Roma legend Giuseppe Giannini has commented on the club's managerial changes and transfer strategy in an interview with Il Tempo. Giannini acknowledged that Roma has had some misfortune this season, stating: "It is ugly to talk about bad luck, but Roma has been slightly unlucky. The match against Juventus somewhat overturned the season." He defended the Friedkin Group's decision to appoint Gasperini and move away from Ranieri, noting that ownership naturally focuses on results and identified Gasperini as the key figure requiring freedom to operate. When asked who could replace Ranieri in an advisory or directorial capacity, Giannini spoke positively about Francesco Totti as a candidate, emphasizing his passion and attachment to the club. He said: "For love, for passion, for attachment, one would dream of a character who has already done great things as a player and who can contribute also as a director." However, Giannini expressed caution about publicly naming Totti, concerned that such speculation might damage his candidacy. Giannini also evaluated the work of director Massara, describing him as a serious professional with international football knowledge, though he noted that Massara operates quietly behind the scenes. Regarding recent signings, Giannini questioned the acquisition of Vaz for approximately 22 million euros, describing him as an interesting prospect but "not yet ready for a club like Roma," and acknowledged uncertainty about the reasoning behind the transfer.

Head coach Gasperini has made clear his intention to engineer a significant overhaul of Roma's attacking department. Donyell Malen is identified as the only indispensable forward and will be retained through a permanent transfer. Gasperini expects this restructuring will be a key topic during Ryan Friedkin's imminent visit to Trigoria and discussions with potential future sporting directors, with Manna and D'Amico among the candidates being considered. Multiple attacking players are expected to leave the club. Paulo Dybala is described as closer to departure—with Boca a likely destination—than to renewing his contract. Matías Soulé, currently a fixture in the lineup, could also depart if Aston Villa or Bournemouth submit concrete offers following their initial enquiries. El Shaarawy is set to leave, while Zaragoza will return to Bayern Munich and Ferguson to Brighton. The overhaul requires two left-sided wingers and one right-sided winger, contingent on Soulé's future. Gasperini's primary targets include Nusa as his dream signing, with Summerville—particularly attractive if West Ham faces relegation—also high on his wishlist. Sauer from Feyenoord and Munoz from Osasuna are viewed as more readily achievable options. Details on other potential recruits remain unclear.

AS Roma faces pressure to generate €80 million in player sales by 30 June to meet UEFA financial regulations. Midfielder Koné, who has resumed training after injury, is among the leading candidates to depart Trigoria. The French international has attracted interest from Inter, with additional suitors abroad, though Roma's financial requirements rather than footballing considerations are driving a potential exit. Koné's sale alone would not be sufficient to reach the club's €80 million target, prompting sporting director Ricky Massara to identify additional departures. Ivorian centre-back Evan Ndicka has parted ways with his agent and is preparing to negotiate a move independently. A key advantage for Ndicka is that he will retain 20% of any transfer fee's value in his personal accounts. The Premier League is reportedly among Ndicka's most likely destinations. Both players are viewed as saleable assets within Roma's squad, with their departures potentially accelerating the club's compliance with the UEFA financial recovery plan.