Roma demolish Fiorentina 4-0, keep European dream alive

Manu Koné, AS Roma's midfielder, remained unused on the bench throughout France's 3–1 victory over Senegal in a World Cup 2026 qualifier. Coach Deschamps opted to start Tchouaméni and Rabiot in midfield, making only attacking substitutions in the second half with Barcola and Cherki entering the pitch. France secured the win through a double from Mbappé and a goal from Barcola following his introduction, while Senegal's Mbaye scored a late consolation. Koné's absence marks a delayed debut for the Roma player at the tournament. He may see increased playing time in France's upcoming fixture against Iraq on Monday, June 22. The midfielder's potential involvement in future matches remains to be clarified as France progresses through their World Cup campaign.

Cape Verde secured their first-ever point in a World Cup after drawing 0-0 with Spain in a surprising result. Spain, featuring Yamal, created numerous chances but failed to break down the Cape Verdean defence, leaving the European side needing to recover quickly in their next match to avoid elimination from the tournament. The result marks an unusual upset in the current World Cup edition, which has already delivered several surprises. Spain's manager De La Fuente will need to regroup his squad after the disappointing stalemate. The pressure now intensifies on Spain to secure three points in their upcoming fixture, as failing to do so could result in their shock exit from the competition. Meanwhile, Roma midfielder Wesley has been pictured enjoying downtime at the seaside in Ponza following his World Cup disappointment, taking a boat trip to unwind during the tournament break.

Donyell Malen featured in the Netherlands' opening World Cup match against Japan, which ended in a disappointing draw. Dutch supporters on social media were split in their assessment of the Roma forward's performance and coach Ronald Koeman's management of the game. Many fans criticized Koeman's substitution of Malen, arguing that removing him removed a key outlet for counterattacking play. One supporter wrote: "Leave him alone, damn it. He's quick on the counter. It's a terrible substitution. Depay no longer has that spark. I really don't understand." Others echoed similar frustration, with fans noting that replacing Malen, Summerville, and Gakpo with players lacking defensive depth was a strategic error. However, not all criticism was directed at Koeman. Some Dutch supporters pointed to Malen's individual play as a problem, arguing he was too focused on creating chances alone rather than playing within the team structure. One fan commented: "I hope Malen remembers he plays in a team." Others suggested starting the match with Malen as a substitute rather than in the XI, or questioned his overall approach to play as too individualistic. Despite the mixed reception, Malen remains a key part of the Dutch attacking options. The Netherlands face Sweden in their next World Cup match on June 20, a fixture that will be vital for progression in the tournament.

Niccolò Pisilli has become the latest AS Roma player to attract interest from Inter Milan during the current transfer window. The 20-year-old midfielder is reportedly being considered by the Nerazzurri as a potential alternative should their pursuit of Liverpool's Jones falter. According to reports, Pisilli would serve as a backup option to fill the midfield void left by Frattesi's expected departure from Inter. Pisilli represents the fifth Roma player linked with Inter in recent weeks, following Svilar, Mancini, Ndicka, and Koné. The academy product enjoyed a strong second half of the 2024–25 season and has repeatedly expressed his commitment to Roma. Despite Inter's apparent interest, a transfer appears unlikely given his recent performances and consistent declarations of affection for the club. Roma would face significant reluctance in parting with a young prospect who has developed into a key squad member. Details remain unclear regarding the concrete nature of Inter's approach or any formal bid. Gasperini's arrival as Roma's new head coach may also influence the midfielder's future at the club.

An analysis of AS Roma's 2025–26 season examines the underlying numbers and performances that shaped the club's campaign beyond the headline achievement of securing third place and Champions League qualification. The piece focuses on individual contributions from key players including Gianluca Mancini, Bryan Cristante, and Artem Dovbyk, exploring statistical insights that reveal the full picture of Roma's season. While Roma achieved a strong final league position, the deeper metrics highlight both standout individual performances and areas of note across the campaign. The analysis provides context for understanding how specific players and tactical elements influenced the overall outcome.

Julio Sergio, former Roma goalkeeper, praised teammate Wesley in a radio interview, stating that the Brazilian defender's impact has been impressive but not entirely unexpected. Sergio noted Wesley's physical qualities and work ethic, explaining: "Sapevo che Wesley aveva gamba e voglia: mette sempre il cuore e l'anima in campo" (I knew Wesley had pace and desire: he always puts his heart and soul on the pitch). He credited head coach Gian Piero Gasperini with intelligently shifting Wesley's position to suit tactical needs, drawing parallels to how Gianluca Mancini and other players adapted when arriving in Italy. Regarding Wesley's rumoured interest from top clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City, Sergio suggested another season consolidating at Roma under Gasperini's guidance could be valuable, though he acknowledged the difficulty of refusing offers from world-class institutions. Sergio also assessed goalkeeper Mile Svilar's recent performances, praising his reflexes and physicality. He noted that Svilar has earned strong fan support through on-pitch performances and provides defensive security, though he identified areas for growth: "Può migliorare con i piedi o nelle uscite alte" (He can improve with his feet or in high exits). Sergio highlighted the environment at Trigoria training ground ahead of Roma's return to Champions League, describing it as optimal with strong expectations despite acknowledging the difficulty of competing against established European sides.

Five AS Roma players will feature for their respective nations during Saturday's second round of the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Midfielder Manu Koné remains the sole Roma player absent from Saturday's fixtures, as France is not scheduled until Monday 22 June against Iraq. Koné came off the bench in France's opening 3–1 victory over Senegal. The Roma contingent's Saturday schedule opens at midnight with Scotland versus Morocco at Foxborough, featuring Morocco's El Aynaoui and Bouaddi — both expected to start. Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil in their opener, while Scotland won 1–0 against Haiti. Brazil, without Wesley, faces Haiti at 2:30 a.m. Defender Ndicka watched from the bench in Côte d'Ivoire's opening match and is expected to feature against Germany at Toronto Stadium. Türkiye's Çelik, who started their surprise 2–0 loss to Australia, plays Paraguay at 5 a.m. after Paraguay suffered a 4–1 defeat to the USA. Forward Donyell Malen headlines Roma's evening fixtures alongside Ndicka. Malen, who has not yet scored for the Netherlands, will compete for a starting spot against Sweden in Houston, though Depay is also in contention. The Netherlands drew 2–2 with Japan in their opening match.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has ruled out Brazilian winger Dodo as a transfer target for Roma, despite recent speculation linking the Fiorentina player to the club. Gasperini's focus is elsewhere: he prioritizes offensive reinforcements, seeking at least two new attacking signings before addressing other positions, including the wing. Greenwood remains his primary target in attack. Dodo's exclusion from Roma's plans stems from two main factors. Fiorentina's elevated asking price for the Brazilian winger and Gasperini's own preference for alternative profiles have shifted the club's attention away. Among the alternatives now under consideration is Nahuel Molina of Atlético Madrid, whose profile appears to align more closely with the coach's vision for the position. As a result, Dodo is not expected to join Roma as a winger in the coming transfer window, barring unexpected developments. Wesley, Roma's current defender, will continue his partnership with new teammates, with the potential arrival of players like Molina signalling the club's strategic direction. Gasperini's emphasis on attack-first recruitment reflects his tactical priorities as Roma rebuild under the Friedkin Group's ownership.

Roma may field Brazilian full-backs on both flanks next season, with Wesley and Dodô potentially forming an all-Brazil wing pairing under coach Gian Piero Gasperini. The analysis focuses on Dodô's technical profile, highlighting his pace and one-on-one defensive and attacking capabilities that align with Gasperini's tactical demands. Such a setup would give Roma attacking width and dynamic ball-carriers on the flanks, reinforcing the coach's preference for explosive, direct play in wide areas.

Roma's incoming sporting director Tony D'Amico will need to reinforce the defence alongside the planned attacking overhaul, with the club facing potential squad gaps depending on Ndicka's future. Although the attack is the primary focus—built around Malen and Dybala with Pellegrini in support—the defence will require significant investment. The backline was Roma's strongest asset under Gasperini's management this season, forming the foundation for Champions League qualification, but numerical reinforcement is essential. With Kumbulla set to return, Ziolkowski departing for game time, and Ndicka's status uncertain due to Financial Fair Play concerns, Roma would be left with only four senior centre-backs (Hermoso, Mancini, Ghilardi, and possibly Ndicka) for a demanding season requiring at least two players per position. That would leave two additional defenders short. Several targets have been identified. Oosterwolde is viewed as a promising profile but carries a price tag of €20–25 million, becoming viable mainly if Ndicka departs. Bologna's Lucumì, available on an expiring contract, is another option at roughly €20 million—far lower than Bologna's initial €28 million demand. Solet represents an ideal profile but costs at least €25 million and Inter are already advanced in negotiations. Muharemovic is ready to leave Sassuolo, though domestic competition is driving up his price. Gasperini has been clear that Roma needs experienced, quality defenders—both a high-level starter and a reliable backup.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has signalled to AS Roma's leadership that he wants to keep the club's defensive core intact for the coming season. The four pillars of the backline—goalkeeper Mile Svilar, defenders Gianluca Mancini, Ndicka, and Hermoso—are central to Gasperini's plans as he aims to build on Roma's recent stability. Svilar is regarded as an exceptional goalkeeper whom the club cannot afford to lose. Hermoso's annual renewal clause was exercised in May, while Mancini has been secured by Gasperini and awaits a contract extension with no doubts surrounding his future. Ndicka, the final member of the quartet, has been subject to months of speculation about a potential departure, but losing a centre-back of his quality does not appeal to Gasperini. Gasperini's emphasis on defensive continuity reflects the improvements made during his tenure. Roma's defence conceded only 31 goals in the recently concluded Serie A campaign, the second-best record in the division. After an initial period of adaptation, the coach established stability at the back. By retaining this defensive foundation, Gasperini intends to push Roma even higher in the league standings. The club faces the challenge of balancing Gasperini's clear wishes to maintain squad cohesion while managing various contract situations and transfer rumours affecting the group.

Roma have appointed Tony D'Amico as their new sporting director following the departure of Frederic Massara, who left amid a dispute with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. D'Amico and Gasperini previously worked together at Atalanta. The club has already secured Donyell Malen on a permanent deal and extended Mario Hermoso's contract as part of their summer activity. With Financial Fair Play obligations to meet, Roma's primary focus will be strengthening their attacking options. Mason Greenwood of Olympique Marseille is a key target, though his fee could reach approximately €50 million. Greenwood has scored 48 goals and provided 17 assists in 81 appearances for Marseille. Roma are also monitoring RB Leipzig's Antonio Nusa and West Ham's Crysencio Summerville, though no concrete moves have been made for either. The club does not view acquiring another centre-forward as a pressing priority. Matías Soulé may be sold to a Premier League club as part of Roma's financial planning, while the club will consider offers for midfielder Manu Koné and defender Evan N'Dicka. Losing Soulé could be offset by landing a marquee forward, though Roma's willingness to spend heavily on a single player remains unclear.