De Roon silences the doubters as Gasperini's familiar ally makes instant impact

Marten De Roon's arrival at Roma in the final days of the summer transfer window had raised eyebrows among supporters, not least because of the departure of Neil El Aynaoui. The 35-year-old Dutch midfielder faced scepticism over his age and a history of social media provocations directed at Roma following clashes between his former club Atalanta and the Giallorossi. But in his early appearances, De Roon has already justified Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to reunite with him. Gasperini has deployed De Roon more frequently than any other player across his managerial career—361 appearances, compared to Toloi's 289—demonstrating the depth of their working relationship. De Roon left Atalanta after falling out of favour under Sarri, and Gasperini brought him to Roma on what amounted to a free transfer within 48 hours. His arrival initially unsettled Roma's fanbase due to past social media friction, but De Roon apologised immediately and made himself available. Though his competitive minutes remain limited—35 across Serie A and Champions League—his early impact has been positive, with Gasperini appearing to orchestrate play from the dugout with precision. De Roon brings valuable experience to a squad that is shorter than last season but higher in quality. After Paulo Dybala, he holds the second-most Champions League appearances in the group with 44, offering younger players like Niccolò Pisilli the chance to develop under an established presence. His integration has helped stabilise a Roma side operating with Gasperini's direct tactical methods.

Roma made enquiries for Real Madrid forwards Franco Mastantuono and Endrick during the summer transfer window but left empty-handed on both fronts. Mastantuono, an Argentine, has since made history by becoming the youngest foreigner to score a hat-trick in Serie A after joining Fiorentina on loan. Roma wanted a permanent deal for Mastantuono, but Real Madrid insisted on retaining control of the player, ending talks quickly. The Fiorentina loan includes no option or obligation to buy, with the Viola covering roughly half of his €3.5M wages. Brazilian forward Endrick remained at Real Madrid and did not move, though Roma remain keen on him ahead of January. He stayed largely because of José Mourinho's orders following Rodrygo's injury, but he has yet to play any minutes, sitting behind several established stars and Carlos Espì in the pecking order. His frustration is mounting, and his January departure will gain traction if his situation doesn't improve. Roma rate him highly and are prepared to structure a deal similar to the one used for Nico Paz to bring him in. Roma's inability to sell Matías Soulé hampered most of their summer plans, though he is performing well enough that the club cannot complain about the outcome. They would have preferred greater variety in their attacking options. Mastantuono would have offered something different, but long-term loans of that nature are not palatable, and Roma are not short-handed as matters stand.

Roma's transfer strategy this summer has drawn criticism from sections of the media, particularly the departures and arrivals in defence. Jan Ziółkowski, signed in August 2025 at a low fee following scout Massara's assessment of his potential in Poland, has left to gain playing time elsewhere after Gasperini identified other priorities. Alongside Konstantinos Koulierakis, Leonardo Balerdi arrived late in the window—the former Marseille captain—prompting complaints from observers who questioned why Ziółkowski was sold if money was then spent on a replacement. The logic behind Roma's approach is becoming clearer in the opening weeks of the season. Ziółkowski may return one day ready to compete for a starting place, or he may represent a useful profit for the club's finances. For now, Balerdi is what Roma need. What rankles some commentators is that those now celebrating Balerdi's arrival were among those who dismissed his signing initially, often appearing unfamiliar with his name. Before Turin-Roma, some called for Balerdi to replace Gianluca Mancini, whom they had written off as finished after errors against Atalanta and Fenerbahçe. Mancini, however, produced a monumental display at Turin, exposing the opportunism of those quick to turn on him. The article criticizes media outlets for excitement in watching Roma stumble rather than genuine engagement with the club's direction.

Marten De Roon's arrival at Roma in the final days of the summer transfer window had raised eyebrows among supporters, not least because of the departure of Neil El Aynaoui. The 35-year-old Dutch midfielder faced scepticism over his age and a history of social media provocations directed at Roma following clashes between his former club Atalanta and the Giallorossi. But in his early appearances, De Roon has already justified Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to reunite with him. Gasperini has deployed De Roon more frequently than any other player across his managerial career—361 appearances, compared to Toloi's 289—demonstrating the depth of their working relationship. De Roon left Atalanta after falling out of favour under Sarri, and Gasperini brought him to Roma on what amounted to a free transfer within 48 hours. His arrival initially unsettled Roma's fanbase due to past social media friction, but De Roon apologised immediately and made himself available. Though his competitive minutes remain limited—35 across Serie A and Champions League—his early impact has been positive, with Gasperini appearing to orchestrate play from the dugout with precision. De Roon brings valuable experience to a squad that is shorter than last season but higher in quality. After Paulo Dybala, he holds the second-most Champions League appearances in the group with 44, offering younger players like Niccolò Pisilli the chance to develop under an established presence. His integration has helped stabilise a Roma side operating with Gasperini's direct tactical methods.

Marten de Roon has already justified head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's faith in him since arriving at Roma, delivering an assured display in just 35 combined minutes across Serie A and the Champions League. Entering the second half against Torino at the 64-minute mark, the 35-year-old Dutch midfielder immediately imposed order and reading of the game on a side that needed precisely that stability. In his 25-minute spell, he completed four interceptions, won two of three duels, and achieved a 100% success rate in his dribbling attempts—figures that illustrated his value despite the limited time on the pitch. Gasperini made clear his conviction in de Roon shortly before, defending him against criticism from Atalanta's ultra supporters, who had unfurled a banner during his departure after eleven seasons at Bergamo. The manager responded bluntly: "Doveva fare la scarpa vecchia in uno sgabuzzino? Non è andato via per sua volontà. Sono molto contento che sia qua, è una fortuna e darà un contributo importantissimo" (Should he have become an old shoe in a cupboard? He did not leave of his own choice. I am very happy he is here; it is a stroke of luck and he will make an extremely important contribution). De Roon is the player Gasperini has deployed most in his career across all clubs, amassing 361 appearances—well clear of Toloi, who stands at 289. Roma secured him for a minimal outlay, spending up to €600,000 including all bonus payments. De Roon is being eased into action as he builds his match fitness after an unusual summer; he did not feature in Atalanta's opening two league matches before his move. Last season with the Bergamaschi, he ranked fourth in Serie A for balls won (93), fifth for recoveries (47), and third for tackles (79)—metrics that underscore why Gasperini continues to regard him as a vital resource. Beyond his defensive and technical contributions, de Roon showed leadership off the ball during the Turin fixture, assisting Pisilli when the young midfielder was struggling with cramps after Roma's second goal—a small, nearly invisible gesture that reflected his experience and awareness of team needs. Gasperini is introducing de Roon gradually, waiting for his conditioning to reach the level required to sustain a full 90 minutes at the pace his system demands. Roma have a forthcoming break after facing Inter that may allow de Roon further time to recover ground, though it remains too early to predict him as a regular starter from the beginning.

Roma travel to face Inter on Saturday with a perfect Serie A record of 12 points from 12, heading into what the Italian press calls their first genuine direct championship confrontation of the season. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini's squad have maintained their standards despite key absences: without N'Dicka, Wesley and with Koné initially on the bench against Turin, Roma sustained their pressing, intensity, quality and solidity. Leonardo Balerdi exemplified the depth available, delivering a commanding full debut performance at centre-back against Torino after convincing cameos against Atalanta and Fenerbahce, displaying anticipation, speed and physical strength in duels. Marten de Roon, brought on in the second half, immediately conveyed full understanding of Gasperini's midfielder demands. Nahuel Molina continues to develop, Santiago Castro offers encouraging signs, and Rodrigo Mora has already shown flashes of talent. The "Dybalen" partnership of Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen has become the team's attacking heart: in nine matches started together from the opening whistle, Roma have never lost—eight victories and one draw. Gasperini considers them complementary, and the pitch has repeatedly validated his assessment. Roma won all four opening league matches, a feat not achieved since 2014–15, and arrive at the Inter clash level on points with the Nerazzurri. Inter remain the league's benchmark for quality, depth and big-match experience, but also represent a genuine curse: they have not lost at the Olimpico to Roma since 2016 and have won their last five meetings in the capital. Gasperini himself has not beaten Inter in seventeen matches, with ten consecutive defeats. However, Roma now possess the tools to potentially rewrite that history. The article notes that Saturday will not settle the title race or hand down final verdicts, but it will offer the first genuine chance to measure how high Roma's ceiling truly sits this season. Roma do not start as favourites, but for the first time in considerable time can approach such a fixture with a conviction beyond mere resistance—the belief they can play as equals and aim to win.

Aldo Serena, the former striker turned Sky pundit, has weighed in on Saturday's Roma–Inter clash, describing it as a defining examination for Gasperini's side. Serena praised Roma's early-season form, saying the team has been given an attacking game by the coach that is both eye-catching and concrete. "Gasperini has given them football that catches the eye with a physically sharp Dybala. The team attacks, entertains but is at the same time concrete thanks to that phenomenon that is Malen," Serena said. For Inter, Serena sees a tougher assignment on the defensive front. While highlighting the pace of Bonny, the agility of Thuram, the power of Pio Esposito and the quality of Lautaro, he suggested their summer acquisitions have improved the squad's overall calibre, but warned their defence needs work. "With the Roma match, it could be difficult," he concluded, noting that Inter cannot rely on comebacks if they want to progress in the Champions League.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has named three AS Roma players in his latest national squad selection. Leonardo Balerdi, Matías Soulé and Santiago Castro have been called up, though notable absences include Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina, who will remain at Trigoria. The squad announcement came via the Argentina Football Association's official social media channels. Dybala and Molina's omission marks a surprise, as both are among Roma's more established international players. Both will stay at the club during the international break while their teammates fulfil their national team duties.

Marten De Roon's arrival at Roma in the final days of the summer transfer window had raised eyebrows among supporters, not least because of the departure of Neil El Aynaoui. The 35-year-old Dutch midfielder faced scepticism over his age and a history of social media provocations directed at Roma following clashes between his former club Atalanta and the Giallorossi. But in his early appearances, De Roon has already justified Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to reunite with him. Gasperini has deployed De Roon more frequently than any other player across his managerial career—361 appearances, compared to Toloi's 289—demonstrating the depth of their working relationship. De Roon left Atalanta after falling out of favour under Sarri, and Gasperini brought him to Roma on what amounted to a free transfer within 48 hours. His arrival initially unsettled Roma's fanbase due to past social media friction, but De Roon apologised immediately and made himself available. Though his competitive minutes remain limited—35 across Serie A and Champions League—his early impact has been positive, with Gasperini appearing to orchestrate play from the dugout with precision. De Roon brings valuable experience to a squad that is shorter than last season but higher in quality. After Paulo Dybala, he holds the second-most Champions League appearances in the group with 44, offering younger players like Niccolò Pisilli the chance to develop under an established presence. His integration has helped stabilise a Roma side operating with Gasperini's direct tactical methods.

Marten De Roon's arrival at Roma in the final days of the summer transfer window had raised eyebrows among supporters, not least because of the departure of Neil El Aynaoui. The 35-year-old Dutch midfielder faced scepticism over his age and a history of social media provocations directed at Roma following clashes between his former club Atalanta and the Giallorossi. But in his early appearances, De Roon has already justified Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to reunite with him. Gasperini has deployed De Roon more frequently than any other player across his managerial career—361 appearances, compared to Toloi's 289—demonstrating the depth of their working relationship. De Roon left Atalanta after falling out of favour under Sarri, and Gasperini brought him to Roma on what amounted to a free transfer within 48 hours. His arrival initially unsettled Roma's fanbase due to past social media friction, but De Roon apologised immediately and made himself available. Though his competitive minutes remain limited—35 across Serie A and Champions League—his early impact has been positive, with Gasperini appearing to orchestrate play from the dugout with precision. De Roon brings valuable experience to a squad that is shorter than last season but higher in quality. After Paulo Dybala, he holds the second-most Champions League appearances in the group with 44, offering younger players like Niccolò Pisilli the chance to develop under an established presence. His integration has helped stabilise a Roma side operating with Gasperini's direct tactical methods.

Marten de Roon has already justified head coach Gian Piero Gasperini's faith in him since arriving at Roma, delivering an assured display in just 35 combined minutes across Serie A and the Champions League. Entering the second half against Torino at the 64-minute mark, the 35-year-old Dutch midfielder immediately imposed order and reading of the game on a side that needed precisely that stability. In his 25-minute spell, he completed four interceptions, won two of three duels, and achieved a 100% success rate in his dribbling attempts—figures that illustrated his value despite the limited time on the pitch. Gasperini made clear his conviction in de Roon shortly before, defending him against criticism from Atalanta's ultra supporters, who had unfurled a banner during his departure after eleven seasons at Bergamo. The manager responded bluntly: "Doveva fare la scarpa vecchia in uno sgabuzzino? Non è andato via per sua volontà. Sono molto contento che sia qua, è una fortuna e darà un contributo importantissimo" (Should he have become an old shoe in a cupboard? He did not leave of his own choice. I am very happy he is here; it is a stroke of luck and he will make an extremely important contribution). De Roon is the player Gasperini has deployed most in his career across all clubs, amassing 361 appearances—well clear of Toloi, who stands at 289. Roma secured him for a minimal outlay, spending up to €600,000 including all bonus payments. De Roon is being eased into action as he builds his match fitness after an unusual summer; he did not feature in Atalanta's opening two league matches before his move. Last season with the Bergamaschi, he ranked fourth in Serie A for balls won (93), fifth for recoveries (47), and third for tackles (79)—metrics that underscore why Gasperini continues to regard him as a vital resource. Beyond his defensive and technical contributions, de Roon showed leadership off the ball during the Turin fixture, assisting Pisilli when the young midfielder was struggling with cramps after Roma's second goal—a small, nearly invisible gesture that reflected his experience and awareness of team needs. Gasperini is introducing de Roon gradually, waiting for his conditioning to reach the level required to sustain a full 90 minutes at the pace his system demands. Roma have a forthcoming break after facing Inter that may allow de Roon further time to recover ground, though it remains too early to predict him as a regular starter from the beginning.

Roman radio commentators have weighed in on Roma's upcoming challenge against Inter, with analysis split between tactical concerns and measured confidence in the squad's strength. Piero Torri argued that a great team should impose its own style rather than adapt to opponents, suggesting that deploying Pisilli as a trequartist behind Dybala and Malen could be a surprise move, but cautioning that Inter's counterattack poses serious danger. He backed Gasperini's aggressive approach and noted that internal competition across multiple positions strengthens the squad. Agresti and Visnadi both ranked Roma as stronger than Juventus in every department, with Visnadi highlighting the continuity Gasperini has built on from last season's work, though he acknowledged the manager would have preferred a different forward option. Valdarchi raised Inter's psychological burden as the presumed strongest team with a duty to defend their status, while controversially naming Como as a title contender alongside the established powers. He suggested the narrative could benefit from a clear rivalry between Chivu and Gasperini to frame the season's story. Rossomando struck a critical note on Gasperini's record, stating: "In recent years Gasperini has a very negative record against Inter. Probably his man-to-man style of play does not pay off against Inter. After several negative results against the same team perhaps I would think of changing something." This analysis pointed to the coach's tactical approach as potentially needing revision ahead of the fixture.