Verona coach on final-day clash with Roma: targeting points through high-level performance

Paolo Sammarco, speaking ahead of Verona's match against Roma on the final day of the season, expressed his side's determination to secure a positive result. Sammarco emphasized that earning points against top-tier opponents carries prestige, citing previous victories over Juventus and Inter as evidence of Verona's capability. He stated: "We want to play our match and try to earn points. It is always prestigious to earn points against important teams like happened against Juventus and Inter. We will try tonight too, against Roma." The fixture takes place on the season's closing weekend, with Roma being positioned as one of the league's leading sides. Sammarco outlined his vision for how Verona must approach the encounter, emphasizing a high level of performance. He explained: "Everyone has objectives, also personal ones, and we want to show ourselves. Just as the boys need and have the will to play a high-level match. Only this way can we compete against Roma and try to close the season a bit better than how it has gone." Sammarco's comments reflect Verona's ambition to end their campaign on a positive note against opposition of Roma's calibre. The manager's focus remains on collective effort and individual motivation as keys to competing effectively in what represents a significant final-day challenge.

El Shaarawy will play his final match for AS Roma at Verona, with the fixture carrying crucial Champions League qualification implications. Roma are chasing a fourth-place finish that has eluded them for eight years, and victory would secure their spot in Europe. El Shaarawy spoke emotionally about his time at the club following the recent derby win, saying: "Rome is a city that gets inside you right away, and you have a real bond with it. I've tried to give everything for this shirt, I've always put myself at the disposal of the team. The public understood me and recognized it. It will leave me with a wonderful memory." The winger emphasized Roma's readiness for the Verona clash, noting the confidence gained from the derby victory and the squad's ability to remain in contention after rivals dropped points throughout the season. He reflected on his relationship with Roma supporters and the club itself, stating: "Rome has given me so much: the club, the team, and the city. I grew a lot here, it's a place that welcomes you and transmits affection right away, something I found again when I returned in 2021." El Shaarawy described the bond between himself and the fanbase as one that will endure permanently, highlighting the mutual recognition between player and supporters throughout his tenure.

AS Roma face Hellas Verona in a crucial match where the Giallorossi control their own destiny in the race for Champions League qualification. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has settled on his attacking lineup, fielding the dream front three of Matías Soulé, Paulo Dybala, and Donyell Malen. The tactical setup aims to secure victory without relying on results elsewhere. Gasperini retains some flexibility in midfield, with the possibility of starting Koné from the outset as the coach seeks to settle the match early. In defence, former Roma player Ghilardi returns to the Bentegodi as a replacement for the absent Ndicka, marking his first appearance at his former home ground in a year. On the right flank, Rensch is expected to start ahead of Wesley, tasked with repeating an impressive performance from the Parma fixture. The squad selection reflects Gasperini's intent to field his strongest available players to maximize Roma's chances of claiming the three points needed to secure Champions League football. The formation is set as a 3-4-2-1, with Mile Svilar in goal and Gianluca Mancini anchoring the defensive line.