Roma Begin Search for Director of Sport; Manna Leads List of Candidates

The Friedkin Group continues to evaluate candidates for Roma's sporting leadership, with Giovanni Manna remaining under consideration for a directorial role. Manna is a sports executive whose profile has attracted interest from the ownership. Details of his specific experience and qualifications remain unclear from the available information. Roma's management has been actively reshaping the club's administrative structure following recent coaching changes and the dismissal of Daniele De Rossi in 2025. The appointment would represent a significant decision for the club's sporting direction going forward.

Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is pursuing three significant transfers as the club plans a targeted approach to the market. Beyond contract renewals, Roma intends to intervene decisively in the transfer window with a clear strategy. Details remain unclear on the specific targets, fee ranges, and timeline for these moves.

Ismael Koné, the Sassuolo midfielder who has been linked with AS Roma, has declined to commit to any club for next season. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Koné remained noncommittal about his future, saying: "Where will I play next year? I'm being honest: I don't know. Let's see what happens, but I'm focused on what I need to do. I'm happy to be at Sassuolo and the club's trust in me. Then there's the World Cup." Koné has attracted attention from multiple Serie A sides during the season, with Roma reportedly considering him as a potential replacement should Manu Koné depart in the summer transfer window. The Canadian midfielder has been one of the standout performers in a Sassuolo side competing in Serie A's closing stages. His performances have drawn interest from several clubs, though he has chosen to keep his options open rather than signal any preference or agreement at this stage. Koné's reluctance to discuss specifics reflects the typical approach taken by players in high-demand positions during the final weeks of a season. His focus remains on Sassuolo's remaining fixtures and the international calendar beyond the domestic campaign.