How many academy talents has Roma truly lost? From Calafiori to Scamacca

Neil El Aynaoui featured in all minutes of Morocco's first two World Cup matches and is determined to establish himself as a key midfielder at Roma following an inconsistent start to his Roma career. The midfielder's physical attributes—speed, dynamism, and work rate—align closely with Gasperini's tactical demands of high pressing, quick transitions, and two-phase play. At the World Cup, El Aynaoui ranks in the top five midfielders for tackles won (15) and defensive contributions (16), and dominated against Scotland alongside Saibari. At Roma, El Aynaoui has underperformed relative to his €25 million transfer fee, scoring sparingly despite averaging 8 goals in 24 appearances for Lens. His Roma struggles partly stem from Gasperini's tactical instructions to drop deeper for build-up play rather than push forward, where he was most dangerous at his previous club. Niccolò Pisilli is also expected to develop further in midfield, and the club may keep Manu Koné—despite interest from Arsenal, Tottenham, and Chelsea—to avoid excessive squad churn in that department. Gasperini expects a marked improvement from El Aynaoui and Pisilli as Roma aims to have four reliable starting midfielders for both Serie A and Champions League competition. El Aynaoui must regain the confidence and creative boldness he displays with Morocco, where he plays alongside the technically proficient Bouaddi. Ricky Massara assured supporters last summer: "He's strong, you will see."

The Netherlands thrashed their opponents 5–1 in World Cup 2026 qualifying under head coach Ronald Koeman, topping Group F. However, Donyell Malen, a current AS Roma player, failed to make a strong impression during the match. The article examines Malen's performance statistics and contributions during the fixture. Details regarding his specific role and opportunities remain unclear from the available information.

Donyell Malen has struggled during the World Cup with the Netherlands after an outstanding second half of the season at Roma. The winger arrived at Roma in January and became a central figure in the attack, scoring 14 goals in 18 Serie A starts and helping secure Champions League qualification. However, in two World Cup appearances against Japan and Sweden, Malen has delivered poor performances with zero shots and limited impact. Coach Ronald Koeman substituted him at half-time against Sweden and remarked: "This is high-level football, he's not the scapegoat but we expect a team performance." The contrast reveals how system and context shape player performance. At Roma under Gasperini, Malen thrived as the focal point of a vertical, rapid attacking style that maximized his pace and directness. Gasperini said in May: "With him from September we'd already be in Champions League." In the Netherlands setup, however, Malen operates as a right winger in a 4-3-3 with emphasis on possession and linking play, reducing opportunities for his strengths in penetrative movement and finishing. At Roma he recorded 1.7 shots on target per 90 minutes; in America he managed zero against Sweden. Competition also differs. Roma's attack lacked alternatives when Malen arrived, whereas the Netherlands have Brobbey and Memphis Depay competing for forward positions. Malen's international drought extends beyond this tournament—his last Netherlands goal came in November against Lithuania. Roma can remain confident in his abilities, as his success in the capital demonstrates his quality remains intact.