Banfi on Ranieri's departure and Roma's Champions League hopes

Donyell Malen, Roma's forward, failed to score across three group-stage matches at the World Cup with the Netherlands, a significant drop from his impressive form with the club. The player was shifted to the right wing during the tournament as fellow striker Brobbey scored three goals. Former Inter manager Frank De Boer analysed Malen's difficulties, tracing the root of his struggles to a friendly match against Algeria at the De Kuip stadium. De Boer explained that Malen did not play poorly in the group stage, including against Tunisia, where he remained active and unlucky in the final minutes. However, the Dutch legend believes a critical turning point came earlier. De Boer stated: "Everything started with the wasted opportunity against Algeria at the De Kuip. It seems to torment him a bit, it seems he's thinking too much. It would have been nice if he'd scored two goals now. But he didn't play badly." The analysis suggests Malen's lack of goals stems from a mental block rather than tactical or physical issues. De Boer implied that the forward's confidence may have been shaken by the missed chances in the Algeria friendly, affecting his performance throughout the tournament. His return to Roma and prospects for regaining form remain to be seen.

Salvatore Foti, who served as assistant coach to José Mourinho during his time at Roma, has discussed his period with the club. Foti commented on a match in Budapest, stating he would have preferred a clear 3-0 defeat. He also revealed his involvement in initiating a chant related to Paulo Dybala. Foti's remarks offer insight into his experience working alongside Mourinho at Roma, touching on both tactical moments and fan engagement during his tenure with the Giallorossi.

French football legend Vieira has praised Manu Koné following his performances at the international tournament, notably his display against Norway. Vieira ranked Koné above fellow French midfielders Tchouameni and Rabiot, citing his aggressive play and ball-winning ability. Vieira stated: "He is the best midfielder in France right now for me. I would put him ahead of Tchouameni and Rabiot because he moves more in midfield. He is aggressive, wins lots of balls, breaks the lines, he has something more than the others. Tchouameni sometimes plays the ball backwards too much, he plays it forwards." Koné's strong international performances have not gone unnoticed, with Roma intent on keeping their midfielder despite interest from other clubs. Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly tracking the French midfielder, though he has already declined an approach from Paris Saint-Germain. Roma are reluctant to sell Koné, viewing him as a key player in their midfield setup under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. His performances come after a season interrupted by injuries, yet he has now established himself as a regular starter for France.