Gasperini chases second derby win as Roma prepare for Lazio return

Commentary on Roma's transfer operations suggests head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is frustrated with how the club managed the Greenwood transfer. Questions have been raised about Roma's transfer timing and decision-making processes. The article features radio commentary discussing tactical preferences and squad building, with references to previous transfer dealings involving players linked to Marseille. Details remain unclear on the specific nature of Gasperini's concerns or what transfer alternatives Roma may be pursuing.

Roma midfielder Manu Koné started for France in their Round of 16 World Cup match against Paraguay, replacing the injured Aurélien Tchouameni. Despite the absence of Real Madrid's midfielder, French media and supporters have praised Koné's solid display. France won 1–0 thanks to a Kylian Mbappé penalty, advancing to the quarter-finals while demonstrating resilience against a compact defensive opponent. Koné earned widespread acclaim for his performance across both defensive and attacking phases. Journalist Olivier Bossard of L'Équipe stated: "I am not concerned about Tchouameni's absence. I think Koné will be very good and hold firm. We are not losing quality—in fact, we may even improve with him, because we gain attacking options without losing anything in defence." The Roma midfielder recorded 88 touches, tied for the match high, and attempted three long-range shots while making continuous defensive interventions. RMC Sport named him man of the match, though some outlets such as Le Figaro highlighted technical errors in the first half. Deschamps' assistant Guy Stéphan described Koné as "a different type of player, one with quality and a different profile," emphasizing his ball recovery abilities and distribution. Koné was cautioned late in the match but demonstrated the work rate and versatility that satisfied French staff and supporters alike.

El Aynaoui has emerged as a standout performer at the World Cup, transforming his fortunes after a difficult first season at Roma. The Moroccan midfielder, who began the tournament viewed skeptically by Roma supporters following inconsistent form and limited playing time, has now become the focal point of his national team across four matches. His performances have attracted attention from major European clubs including Liverpool and Barcelona, yet Roma remains confident in retaining the player, who has reportedly expressed his desire to continue in the capital. Gasperini views El Aynaoui as a cornerstone of Roma's midfield project and plans to give him expanded responsibility in the coming season. Last year, the midfielder ranked below Pisilli in the hierarchy as he adjusted to Serie A after his move from Ligue 1. Gasperini recognized his potential but deemed him lacking the consistency needed during critical moments. The World Cup has demonstrated his readiness; El Aynaoui has developed the rhythm and confidence that eluded him in his debut campaign. The coach now sees concrete qualities upon which to build rather than mere promise. El Aynaoui will not necessarily be a guaranteed starter, particularly if Manu Koné remains at the club, but his increased opportunities will carry greater weight. Roma views the interest from Liverpool and Barcelona as validation of the talent already in their possession. The player's second season at the club is positioned as his moment of full consacration in giallorosso.

Roma's senior squad members have made a collective decision to back the club's sporting project, with Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini among those signalling their commitment to remain. The move follows the Friedkin Group's backing of the team's direction. The core group of established players are betting heavily on the technical plan moving forward, representing a show of unity from within the squad at a crucial moment for the club.

AS Roma are pushing forward with contract renewal negotiations during a busy period at the club. Lorenzo Pellegrini's renewal is seeing accelerated progress, while Zeki Celik's deal is reportedly nearing completion, with only the official announcement pending. The club is balancing new signings with efforts to extend deals for key squad members. Details on the exact terms and timeline for both renewals remain unclear.

Head coach Gasperini is urging the Friedkin Group to accelerate Roma's transfer activity ahead of the squad's return on 13 July. With only 13 players currently available and the club's pre-season camp fast approaching, the coach wants new signings in place as soon as possible. Gasperini has identified Mason Greenwood and Moreira as his top priorities to strengthen the squad immediately. Greenwood remains the primary target to elevate Roma's competitive level, though competition is intense. Fenerbahce continues to pursue the English winger, though Champions League qualification remains uncertain for the Istanbul club. Atlético Madrid has also shown interest but must first resolve the Julian Álvarez situation with manager Simeone. Al Hilal has made an offer, but Greenwood prefers to remain in Europe. For Moreira, Roma maintains contact with Strasbourg, where the midfielder's valuation sits around €40 million and negotiations are ongoing. Chelsea's potential involvement could complicate that deal. Additionally, Roma has scouted alternatives including Garnacho, though Real Sociedad manager Xabi Alonso intends to evaluate him further. The club is also monitoring Kumbedi for the wing position, while striker Dovbyk will not move to Genoa. Roma's senior players Pellegrini, Dybala, and Çelik must finalize contract renewals before the July 20 return of international players.