World Cup: Norway eliminates Ivory Coast; Ndicka left on bench again

Mason Greenwood remains a target for AS Roma, but the club has not yet committed seriously to a move for the Marseille attacker. Journalist Alfredo Pedullà reported that while contacts between Roma and Greenwood's representatives have continued, the giallorossi have decided against accelerating negotiations. Greenwood is viewed as one of head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's key targets to strengthen the squad, though he remains on a shortlist of multiple options rather than the sole focus. Pedullà stated: "The contacts have continued, the name should not be ruled out, the profile is very much liked, and dialogue with the entourage has progressed. But up to this moment Roma has decided not to push hard, even if the name (not the only one) should be kept within a very restricted list." He added that no meetings took place at Trigoria regarding the transfer on the day of reporting, and Roma is studying its strategy after concluding the June 30 deadline without sacrificing any key squad members. Roma is expected to present an opening offer to Marseille in the coming days, though it will reportedly fall short of the French club's asking price. The timeline and structure of any potential deal remain fluid as the transfer window progresses.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is spending the final days of his summer break in Alto Adige (South Tyrol) in the Italian Alps, relaxing before Roma's pre-season training camp begins. Like his players, Gasperini is taking time away during the off-season interval. The timing aligns with the club's preparations ahead of the new campaign, with the head coach set to return for the formal start of summer training sessions and tactical work with the squad.

Brazilian fullback Wesley continues his summer recovery work following the shoulder injury that ruled him out of the World Cup. The player is progressing through rehabilitation exercises that now include ball work, with his return to full team training on the horizon. Wesley's injury was a significant setback during the off-season, forcing him to miss the international tournament. His gradual return to activity, now incorporating technical drills with the ball, signals positive progress in his recovery. The player is working toward rejoining the squad for the upcoming pre-season training camp. The rehabilitation process is being managed under medical supervision. Wesley's return to action represents an important boost for Roma's defensive depth ahead of the new season, particularly on the flanks where his pace and attacking contributions are valued.

Evan Ndicka's World Cup campaign has ended without him taking the pitch. The AS Roma defender, who suffered an injury during the derby clash in late May, was unable to recover in time to feature for Ivory Coast. The team was eliminated after losing 2–1 to Norway, who advanced to the knockout stage. Ndicka departs the tournament without appearing in any match. For Roma, Ndicka is now expected to return to the capital imminently. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is awaiting his arrival for the second phase of pre-season training. Teammate Donyell Malen, who was eliminated from the World Cup yesterday, is also anticipated to rejoin the squad around 20 July. Gasperini has signalled his intention to keep both players at the club as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Norway's progression was secured by goals from Nusa and Erling Haaland, with a goal from Diallo temporarily levelling the match in between. Norway now faces Brazil in the next round.

Donyell Malen has turned down a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club in recent days, choosing instead to remain committed to AS Roma. The Dutch forward departed for the Netherlands' World Cup campaign with hopes of establishing himself as a key player for his national team, but a difficult relationship with coach Ronald Koeman led to his exclusion from the squad. Koeman questioned Malen's role and leadership, telling him "he must understand this is high-level football," and the tensions escalated ahead of the Netherlands-Morocco match, resulting in his removal from the squad. Malen is now set to take a holiday before returning to Rome around July 22–23 to begin pre-season training with Roma ahead of the club's departure for Wales. The 26-year-old has made a clear statement of intent by rejecting the Saudi approach, signaling his desire to rebuild his confidence at Stadio Olimpico under Gian Piero Gasperini. The forward's commitment to Roma despite the international disappointment suggests the club views him as a key part of their plans moving forward.

Paolo Marcacci has published his weekly ratings (Pagellone) covering recent Serie A action. The column assesses performances from several players, including Donyell Malen of Roma, and reviews notable moments from the weekend's fixtures. Malen features among the players graded, alongside commentary on managerial decisions and individual errors from goalkeepers and outfield players across multiple matches.