Bruno Conti expresses love for Roma in heartfelt letter

Fernando Gago, the Argentine former Roma midfielder, has returned to the bench following a severe acute myocardial infarction that struck him on 18 June. Gago resumed his role as head coach of Universidad de Chile in a Copa Chile match against Union La Calera, which ended in a 0–1 defeat. His return drew widespread attention, marking his first public appearance and statements since the medical emergency. Gago revealed the circumstances of his heart attack for the first time. He initially dismissed the symptoms, waking that Thursday with discomfort he thought was muscular or related to a cough. After a match, he went to hospital where initial tests appeared normal, but further examination identified an obstructed artery. The diagnosis came as a shock: "If I had understood right away that it was something so serious, I would have had myself checked earlier," he explained. Speaking with emotion about his recovery and return, Gago said: "These are life situations you are never really prepared for. I have not yet fully realised what happened, but the most important thing is being able to return to the pitch. I am young and I feel I have a second chance to continue living." His recovery marks a significant milestone after weeks of enforced absence from football.

Roma's pursuit of a transfer exit for Artem Dovbyk has stalled, particularly regarding a move to Genoa. The Genoa club had enquired about signing the Ukrainian striker on loan, but Roma rejected the approach, insisting on a permanent sale for approximately €25 million — a fee that proved prohibitive for the Ligurian side. As a result, Genoa has shifted its focus elsewhere and is now targeting Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Marseille, who has previous experience in Italian football from his time at AC Milan. Aubameyang's contract with Marseille runs until 2027, and the French club will only negotiate a permanent transfer rather than a loan arrangement. For Roma, Dovbyk remains available for transfer but appears to be moving down Genoa's priority list. The club continues to explore alternatives for the player, with interest reported from Spanish clubs including Real Betis and a tentative approach from Atlético Madrid, though nothing concrete has materialised at this stage. The Spanish market currently represents the most plausible destination for the forward.

AS Roma will play their first pre-season friendly against Cannes on 26 July at 17:30. The match represents the beginning of Roma's summer preparation ahead of the new season. Ticket information for the fixture is available, though details on pricing and availability remain unclear. Pre-season friendlies typically allow the club to assess squad fitness and tactical preparations before competitive play resumes.