Roma fans protest high ticket prices in Derby

Roma are pressing to appoint a new sporting director, with the Friedkin Group determined to resolve the position. Manna is the primary target, though an alternative candidate has been identified. Details of the alternative option remain unclear. The appointment represents a key part of Roma's ongoing restructuring of their management hierarchy following recent changes in the coaching setup.

The Friedkin Group is actively pursuing Giovanni Manna, currently sporting director at Napoli, to become Roma's next sporting director. Dan Friedkin and Ryan Friedkin have personally engaged with Manna to convince him to move to Rome, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini pushing for the appointment. However, negotiations are complicated by Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who has no intention of releasing Manna and intends to enforce his contract. Manna and Gasperini already have a working relationship from discussions about a possible managerial move to Napoli during Atalanta's Europa League final period. Roma is seeking to resolve its sporting director position following Massara's departure. Should the Manna deal fall through, Tony D'Amico emerges as the primary alternative—he has previously worked with Gasperini at Atalanta and maintains a positive relationship with the coach. Cristiano Giuntoli, currently a free agent who previously considered Gasperini for a role at Juventus, also remains under consideration. The appointment of a new sporting director is viewed as urgent by the club as it shapes squad planning and recruitment strategy under Gasperini's new coaching tenure.

Roma's recruitment team is actively exploring options in Germany's Bundesliga as the club prepares for the summer transfer window. Director Frederic Massara's position remains uncertain following recent managerial changes, but scouting work continues regardless of potential front-office restructuring. Roma scouts were recently spotted at Bayer Leverkusen watching their clash with RB Leipzig, signalling serious interest in monitoring German talent. The club is highly interested in Bayer Leverkusen winger Antonio Nusa, though competition for his signature is intense and his asking price is substantial. Nusa has recorded 5 goals and 4 assists in 33 appearances this season and recently helped Norway eliminate Italy from 2026 World Cup qualifying. Head coach Gasperini has identified a need for pace in attacking areas after previous attempts to strengthen failed this term. Beyond Nusa, Roma are monitoring RB Leipzig midfielder Xaver Schlager, who could potentially leave as a free agent, and Fenerbahce defender Jayden Oosterwolde, who can operate across the back line and left flank. Addressing attacking depth appears to be Roma's priority for the forthcoming window, with recruitment staff seeking a dynamic winger capable of significantly improving the club's offensive output.