Gasperini to face media on Friday ahead of Real Madrid

Gian Piero Gasperini will hold his pre-match press conference tomorrow at 13:30, alongside one of his players, as Roma prepare for their Champions League fixture against Real Madrid on Wednesday at 21:00 at the Stadio Olimpico. The squad will conduct a final training session shortly after the press conference. Gasperini has few formation doubts ahead of the encounter, with the main tactical question centring on the attacking midfield position. Lorenzo Pellegrini and Matías Soulé are competing for a starting place alongside Paulo Dybala in that area of the pitch.

Paulo Dybala has spoken ahead of Roma's Champions League clash against Real Madrid at the Olimpico, saying he hopes to end his career in Italy. Speaking to UEFA Champions League Magazine Show on Prime Video two days before the match, Dybala reflected on Roma's performance last season and the challenge ahead. "We gave everything last season," he said. "It brought joy to us and the fans, and pride too. It will be difficult—we are facing some of the most decorated teams in the world—but with the push from our people we will have something extra." On his years in Italy, Dybala expressed gratitude for how the country has shaped him. "I never imagined I could have a career like this here. This country welcomed me with open arms, the people made me grow as a man and as a player. There are so many emotions here—beautiful moments and difficult ones, as is life for anyone. I hope there can be an Italian ending," he said.

Paulo Dybala has spoken ahead of Roma's Champions League clash against Real Madrid on 14 October, reflecting on the club's return to Europe's elite competition and his deepening connection to Italy. Two days before the fixture, the Argentine forward praised the effort that secured Roma's place in the Champions League this season. "We gave everything last season," Dybala said. "It brought joy to us and to the fans. And pride too. It will be difficult — we are facing some of the most decorated teams in the world — but with the push of our people we will have something more." Dybala has become increasingly central to Roma's project since arriving in 2022, and he outlined his vision for his future at the club. Speaking to Prime Video UEFA Champions League Magazine Show, he emphasised the importance Italy has assumed in his career and personal life: "I would never have imagined making a career like this here. This country welcomed me with open arms. The people have helped me grow as a man and as a footballer. There are so many emotions here — beautiful moments and difficult ones, as in anyone's life. I hope there can be an Italian ending." The 32-year-old made clear he envisions that ending in the capital. His remarks underline Roma's ambition in the Champions League this season after competing in the Europa League in 2025–26, and signal his commitment to the Giallorossi project as they prepare to face one of world football's biggest clubs.