Gasperini rejects talk of Friedkin gift, vows to work on squad improvement

Italy's interim national team coach Silvio Baldini has announced squad numbers for tomorrow's friendly match against Luxembourg at 20:45. Niccolò Pisilli, the AS Roma midfielder, will wear the number 21 shirt, while Cher Ndour has been assigned the number 10. Baldini has opted to select almost entirely from the U21 squad for this fixture, excluding players from the senior national team following Italy's World Cup disappointment. Pisilli expressed enthusiasm about his involvement with the national setup, saying: "A great emotion to go into Champions. I've always followed Gasperini." The Roma player's call-up continues his rise through the Italian youth system as the team rebuilds under interim leadership. The broader context sees Italy focusing on development and regeneration at youth level rather than drawing on established senior internationals for this June window of friendlies. The complete squad roster includes Donnarumma (1), Palestra (2), Bartesaghi (3), and a full list of 25 players with assigned numbers running through to 25 (Fortini). The second friendly in this block is also scheduled for early June, with Baldini continuing to build momentum with the younger generation of Italian talent.

Silvio Baldini, Italy's interim national team manager, spoke to Sky Sport ahead of a friendly match, commenting on the depth of talent in the squad. Niccolò Pisilli, the AS Roma midfielder, was singled out as confirmation of the group's quality. Baldini expressed confidence in the national team's preparations, emphasizing the strength available to him. The exact opponent and match details remain unclear from the available information.

Wesley has given an interview to Brazilian newspaper Lance following his World Cup call-up, discussing his first season at Roma. The defender reportedly stated he may one day return to Flamengo, where he played before joining the Italian club. Wesley's comments on his Roma experience and adaptation to Serie A remain a focus of the conversation. The interview comes as Wesley settles into his role in the Giallorossi squad, where he has become part of the defensive unit under the current coaching structure.

Roma are monitoring Davide Frattesi as a potential midfield target, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini viewing him as a possible replacement should Koné depart. Frattesi, currently at Inter, is expected to leave the club this summer. He came through Roma's youth academy and previously came close to joining the club in 2023 before Inter secured him from Sassuolo. His contract at Inter runs until 2028, though his valuation has decreased in recent years — Inter previously sought €35 million but that asking price is no longer in play. There are currently no direct contacts between Roma and the player. Gasperini reportedly holds Frattesi in high regard and sees him as a suitable option if Roma lose Koné. The French midfielder is considered among the club's potential departures this summer. However, Roma's primary defensive focus remains on contract extensions rather than outgoings, with Gianluca Mancini close to securing a new deal through 2029 with an option until 2030. Mancini is central to Gasperini's plans and has no intention of leaving. No player swap involving Mancini is being considered. Gasperini has requested contract extensions for several key players including Bryan Cristante, Paulo Dybala, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Celik as the squad is built around his trusted core for the upcoming season. Further developments regarding Frattesi's potential transfer are expected soon.

Inter continue to monitor Gianluca Mancini's contract situation at Roma, according to Sky Sport, despite denials from the club today. The Serie A rivals are watching closely for any breakdown in renewal negotiations with the Roma defender and would be prepared to intervene if an agreement collapses. Inter sporting director Marotta is reportedly willing to use midfielder Frattesi as a bargaining chip, believing Roma hold interest in the centrocampist. However, the prospect of Mancini departing the Giallorossi appears increasingly unlikely. The defender has made clear his intention to remain at Roma, and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini considers him a cornerstone of the team. Mancini's contract renewal is described as being close to completion, which would effectively end speculation over his future. Respectively to previous reporting, the chances of Mancini leaving are now characterized as very difficult. The article notes that despite Inter's interest and willingness to negotiate, the likelihood of a deal materializing remains remote given Mancini's commitment to Roma and the imminent renewal agreement.

Gianluca Mancini is set to sign a contract renewal with AS Roma in the coming days, tying him to the club on a long-term basis. The defender's current deal expires in 2027, and while the renewal was paused earlier in 2026, negotiations are now moving toward completion. Reports of Inter Milan's interest have circulated, but Roma sources indicate no formal enquiries from the Nerazzurri have been received, and neither the player nor the club shows any intention to part ways. Mancini is regarded as a cornerstone of Roma's present and future. The club's qualification for the Champions League removes any pressure to dismantle the squad, strengthening the defender's position. He views himself as a leader within the team and has built a strong working relationship with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. The prospect of departing Roma during his first season in the Champions League with the Giallorossi holds no appeal for him, and he is settled in the capital. The likelihood of Mancini leaving Roma remains negligible. His renewal is expected to formalize his status as a long-term fixture at the club.