Dybala's contract renewal talks intensify as Roma's future hangs in the balance

AS Roma is actively searching for a new sporting director, with former Barcelona executive Planes among the candidates under consideration for the position. The appointment of a new director of sport is one of the key priorities for the club as it looks to strengthen its administrative structure. Details regarding the timeline and other candidates in contention remain unclear.

Edin Dzeko, former Roma captain now at Schalke 04, has expressed hope that Daniele De Rossi will help Roma's Champions League prospects by stopping AC Milan, while also emphasizing the importance of winning the Derby della Capitale first. Speaking to Italian media outlets, Dzeko highlighted the special qualities of young player Alajbegovic, who recently took penalties in two crucial matches for his national team. Dzeko's comments reflect his continued connection to Roma and De Rossi, under whom he played during his time at the club. The 18-year-old Alajbegovic drew particular praise from the Bosnian striker, who believes the teenager's composure in high-pressure situations signals an exceptional future ahead. Dzeko stated: "If an 18-year-old boy takes two penalties in the two most important matches of his career, it means he has something different from the others." He added that Alajbegovic should make the right choices for his future development and maintain composure as he progresses. Dzeko's endorsement comes as Roma potentially eyes young talent ahead of the new season.

Stephan El Shaarawy's decade-long spell at Roma has come to an end following the expiration of his contract. The winger's final match for the club came in the Derby della Capitale, playing in front of the Roma supporters for the last time in a Giallorossi shirt. El Shaarawy became an important figure during his extended tenure at the Stadio Olimpico, contributing significantly to Roma's campaign over the past ten years. His departure marks the conclusion of a substantial chapter in the club's recent history, with the derby serving as an emotional farewell to the fanbase that supported him throughout his time in Rome.

Matías Soulé is struggling with form and may start on the bench for Roma's upcoming derby against Lazio, with head coach Gasperini considering either Niccolò Pisilli or Lorenzo Pellegrini as his replacement in the starting lineup. The Argentine winger has been back in action for six weeks following a groin injury but has not yet regained the sharpness that defined his earlier performances this season. Despite Gasperini regularly relying on Soulé since his return, the coach is weighing fresh legs and physicality as potentially decisive factors in one of the season's most important matches, with both Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen considered untouchable starters. This would not constitute a rejection of Soulé but rather a tactical management of energy and game momentum. The approach mirrors Gasperini's use of fresh substitutes in the Parma victory, where impact from the bench proved decisive. Soulé could be deployed as an impact option later in the match, particularly if Roma's opponents tire—conditions that might allow the winger to capitalize on dribbling and create shooting opportunities. His goal tally has been dormant since January 10 against Sassuolo, and he managed only one shot on target in his initial weeks back before recording an open header miss against Parma. One year ago, Soulé produced a memorable goal in the derby that became emblematic among supporters. His performance in the coming match could influence Gasperini's future plans for him, as Aston Villa reportedly prepares a significant offer to sign the player.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has key squad options returning to availability for Roma's upcoming fixtures, particularly the derby against Lazio. Lorenzo Pellegrini and Artem Dovbyk are among the players now available from the bench after periods of absence. Pellegrini, a specialist in derby matches, and Dovbyk, who can be deployed in late-game situations, represent important tactical resources for Gasperini as Roma enters its final two matches of the season. Gasperini has consistently emphasized the importance of squad depth and has previously noted how the unavailability of several players—including Dybala, Koné, El Shaarawy, Soulé, and Wesley—restricted his options throughout the campaign. The return of these players, particularly Pellegrini and Dovbyk, addresses a long-standing concern. Pellegrini, whose contract is set to expire, remains focused on delivering in what could be among his last matches for the club. In derby matches, Gasperini tends to favor experienced players of proven weight, making Dovbyk's availability significant despite other attacking options such as the younger Vaz also competing for minutes. At Parma, substitutes already played a decisive role, with Rensch notably contributing following Wesley's earlier unavailability due to gastroenteritis. Venturino and El Aynaoui were also among the impact players from the bench in that fixture.

Stephan El Shaarawy's official departure from AS Roma at the end of the season has prompted widespread messages of affection from teammates, former teammates, and supporters. The announcement triggered a wave of heartfelt comments celebrating the winger's contributions to the club. Legendary Roma defender Aldair led the tributes with a particularly moving message. He wrote: "There are players who make noise. And others who earn respect through work, silence, and love for the team. Stephan has been this in recent years—always ready, always correct, always at the service of Roma. A player like that would be useful to any team. Best of luck for everything, lad." Current teammate Paulo Dybala posted simply "Great Faraone," while Koné offered "Respect" and Ziolkowski called him a "Legend." Former teammates also joined in paying tribute. Alessandro Florenzi posted "Uncle," Nicolò Bove wrote "Fara," and Radja Nainggolan shared a longer message: "You're a great ElSha, and you'll see that the last one at home will be a beautiful one, the most beautiful ones... I know what it means, it's tough, but what matters is that it stays with you forever." The messages underscore El Shaarawy's impact at Roma both as a teammate and as a respected figure within the club's culture.