Letexier to referee Roma–Real Madrid at the Olimpico

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.

Roma will host Real Madrid on Wednesday at 20:45 in the second matchday of the Champions League league phase, with French referee Francois Letexier appointed to take charge. Letexier will be assisted by Mugnier and Rrahmouni, with Dechepy as fourth official. The VAR team comprises Higler and Van Boekel. Roma and Letexier have met four times previously, all in European competition. The record stands at two victories and two defeats. The most recent encounter came in the 2024–25 Europa League knockout round, when Roma won 3–2 against Porto at the Olimpico in the return leg, with Dybala scoring twice and Pisilli adding a goal. In the preceding season, Roma lost 2–0 to Slavia Praga in the group stage, defeated Brighton 4–0 in the Round of 16 first leg, and fell 2–0 to Bayer Leverkusen in the semi-final first leg.

Paulo Dybala has reaffirmed his desire to end his career at Roma, speaking two days before the club's Champions League visit from Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Olimpico. When asked where he would like to live out that final chapter, Dybala said: "At Roma and with the Roma. But it is premature to talk about it now." Dybala reflected on his connection to Italy, which has become fundamental to both his life and career. He said: "I would never have imagined making a career like this here. This country welcomed me with open arms, the people made me grow as a man and a footballer, there are many emotions here, beautiful moments and sad moments, as is life for any person. I hope there can be an Italian finale." The Argentine's remarks underline the deepening bond between the player and the Roma environment as the club enters a crucial phase of their Champions League campaign. Dybala also addressed Roma's return to Europe's elite competition, which the squad pursued at length last season. He said: "We gave everything last season. It brought joy to us and the fans. And also pride. 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 more." Wednesday's match against Real Madrid represents one of those occasions the player and club have worked toward.