Roma fans debate Dovbyk form and Friedkin criticism as Gasperini seeks new sporting director

Fabio Capello, who managed AS Roma to their third Scudetto in 2001, has given an interview discussing his experience during that championship-winning season. Capello was the architect of Roma's 2001 Serie A title, one of only three league championships in the club's history. The former coach reflected on the emotions surrounding that achievement, noting that missing the celebration had a lasting impact on him. His comments offer insight into the significance of that era for the Giallorossi.

Roma commentators have discussed the future of striker Artem Dovbyk amid speculation about his role under head coach Gasperini. According to discussion points, if suitable offers do not materialize, Gasperini could consider Dovbyk as a backup option to Donyell Malen. The focus reflects uncertainty around Dovbyk's position in the squad and whether the club will pursue alternatives. One voice emphasized that the key consideration is the coach's conviction in his squad decisions, suggesting Gasperini's tactical preferences will ultimately determine how the striker is deployed this season.

Former Roma midfielder Simone Perrotta participated in a ranking format where he placed teammates across four tiers, ultimately naming Francesco Totti and Zinedine Zidane as the two greatest players he shared the pitch with. Perrotta, who spent nearly a decade at Roma between 2004 and 2013 with over 300 appearances, positioned Totti at the apex alongside Zidane. Other players ranked included Henry in the second tier, Cassano and Del Piero in the third tier, and Pellissier and Amauri in the fourth tier. De Rossi was placed in the third tier. In explaining his choice, Perrotta offered an extended analysis of Totti's qualities: "I knew you would ask me this, I put him in first place with Zidane. I think he is the strongest player that Italian football has ever produced, along with Roberto Baggio. I had the chance to appreciate him over 10 years. He was a player with incredible tactical intelligence and technically I don't need to say it because he demonstrated it throughout his career. If he wanted to send the ball into a hole from 50 metres, he could do it. Playing with him you realised that you just needed to give him half a metre and either he would turn and shoot at goal, scoring, or he understood he had the defender on him and would serve you first time. This makes you understand that you need technical qualities to do certain things, but if you don't also have tactical intelligence then the quality becomes worthless." Perrotta modestly placed himself in the lowest tier, stating satisfaction with his career despite believing others ranked were superior to him.

Roma commentators have discussed the future of striker Artem Dovbyk amid speculation about his role under head coach Gasperini. According to discussion points, if suitable offers do not materialize, Gasperini could consider Dovbyk as a backup option to Donyell Malen. The focus reflects uncertainty around Dovbyk's position in the squad and whether the club will pursue alternatives. One voice emphasized that the key consideration is the coach's conviction in his squad decisions, suggesting Gasperini's tactical preferences will ultimately determine how the striker is deployed this season.

Paulo Dybala has not yet committed to a contract extension with Roma, though negotiations remain active. Speaking on his future, Dybala stated: "I have not yet decided, anything can happen." Despite his non-committal comments, the renewal talks are progressing, with Ryan Friedkin maintaining contact with the player's agent Novel and the two sides described as having moved considerably closer to agreement. Head coach Gasperini has prioritized securing Dybala's future alongside Lorenzo Pellegrini and at least two additional attacking reinforcements for the upcoming season. Roma are also working to complete other deals before the June 30 deadline. Matías Soulé is the primary candidate for departure, having attracted interest from Borussia Dortmund, Fenerbahçe, and Saudi Arabian clubs following his 30 million euro investment. Striker Artem Dovbyk is also facing a potential exit, with Villarreal, Real Betis, and a German club monitoring his situation. Additionally, Angeliño has been targeted by La Liga side Deportivo La Coruña for a return to Spain. Gasperini continues to pursue Mason Greenwood as a priority target, with ongoing discussions with the English winger. The club aims to finalize these matters swiftly to shape the squad for the new campaign.

Artem Dovbyk finds himself in a precarious position at Roma heading into the summer transfer window. The Ukrainian striker does not fit into head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's tactical plans, having been criticized by the manager during pre-season. Gasperini remarked on timing and rhythm: "In football as in music you must keep time." A difficult 2024–25 season — marked by just three Serie A goals and a lengthy injury absence from January through May — has weakened Dovbyk's standing further. Roma's objective is to sell Dovbyk to create space in the forward line and pursue alternative targets. The club has discussed alternatives including players like Scamacca, though acquisition remains unlikely, with Greenwood emerging as the primary priority. Several clubs have begun making enquiries. Spanish sides Villarreal and Real Betis have asked for information, with Betis reportedly seeking attacking reinforcements for their Champions League campaign. Roma ideally wants a permanent sale for at least €25 million to register a profit, though the club is now open to loan arrangements with a buyout clause — a shift from last summer's stance. Dovbyk's representatives have been notified of his availability, and Roma's transfer department is actively working to facilitate a departure. Various offers are expected to arrive in the coming weeks as clubs move on the opportunity to sign the striker.