Gremio striker Vinicius misses three penalties in a row, echoing Roma's recent struggles

Donyell Malen is set to play for the Netherlands against Japan in a key international fixture, with Dutch football figures and supporters expressing confidence in the AS Roma forward despite some poor finishing in recent friendlies. The match comes at a time when the Netherlands is debating who should lead the attack, with Malen facing competition for the starting role. Malen has enjoyed an impressive run of form over recent months with Roma, but made some costly mistakes in his last two warm-up games. Nevertheless, the majority of Dutch opinion remains firmly in his corner. Ibrahim Afellay, a former Netherlands international now serving as PSV vice-coach and pundit, publicly backed the Roma forward, stating: "For me there is nothing to discuss. I would play him in attack. Depay has certainly shown he deserves that spot, that is clear. But he is not yet in form. Should we perhaps bench someone like Malen, who is at the height of his form and who has played brilliantly with Roma for six months, simply because he missed chances in two matches? I also believe you must give him opportunities and long-term confidence. He is the future of the Netherlands." Dutch supporters interviewed by DAZN echoed this backing, with comments including: "He will score today, he will be the top scorer!", "I really like him, he will be decisive!", and "So far he hasn't had the chance to show everything he is worth, I hope he manages it in this tournament."

Donyell Malen is preparing for his World Cup debut this evening as the Netherlands face Japan in Group F at Arlington, Texas. The Roma forward is expected to start and will encounter Suzuki, the Japanese goalkeeper he faced recently when Roma defeated Parma 3–2 on 10 May. In that match, Malen scored twice against Suzuki—first with a precise strike from distance, then converting a penalty in the 101st minute. Malen arrives at the tournament seeking to rediscover his scoring form after failing to find the net in two pre-World Cup friendlies against Algeria and Uzbekistan. Regaining his goal-scoring touch is crucial to secure his place in the starting lineup and avoid losing opportunities to fellow forward Depay. The article notes that other Roma players have already featured in World Cup matches: El Aynaoui's Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil, and Çelik played 81 minutes in Turkey's loss to Australia. Malen's previous success against Suzuki provides a psychological edge, and scoring in tonight's match would represent a significant confidence boost as he aims to establish himself with the Oranje during the tournament and build on the strong impression he has already made at Roma.

A Roma midfielder featured in Morocco's lineup ahead of a World Cup group-stage match against Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti. The encounter was described as a significant early tournament fixture. The midfielder was instrumental in preparing his national team for what was anticipated to be a competitive contest. The match represented a key moment in the group stage, pitting two traditional footballing powerhouses against each other. Details of the specific comments and tactical approach remain unclear from the available information.

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.