Mourinho: Roma is my home, I wish I could embrace every fan

Roma face Real Madrid at the Olimpico in their first major Champions League night, with Gasperini having settled most of his starting decisions ahead of kickoff. The only remaining selection question concerns the right-back position, where Rensch holds the advantage over Molina. Koulierakis has recovered from his injury and will be available, though he will start on the bench. Vásquez is included in the squad as backup cover in the absence of Svilar, while Cristante is also unavailable. The squad list confirms 14 outfield players and three goalkeepers have been named for the match. Vásquez, De Marzi and Gollini make up the goalkeeper contingent. The defence includes Rensch, Koulierakis, N'Dicka, Molina, Hermoso, Mancini, Balerdi, Wesley, Lulli and Ghilardi. Midfield is covered by Pellegrini, De Roon, Koné, Pisilli and Mora. The attack features Castro, Malen, Soulé and Dybala.

Roma's attack holds the key to their Champions League fixture against Real Madrid. Paulo Dybala has not scored since 18 January, a drought that underlines the importance of his performance, while Donyell Malen will provide a sharp cutting edge through his movement and pace. Real Madrid have shown defensive fragility despite a conservative approach this season, conceding eight goals in La Liga so far. No pairing of their defensive options—whether Konaté-Huijsen or Konaté-Rudiger—has appeared unbreakable. Malen's speed and directness will trouble the Blancos' back line, while Dybala will have space to operate between defence and midfield to unlock moments of brilliance. The match carries all the hallmarks of a contest decided by individual flair and precision at crucial moments.

Roma face Real Madrid today, 14 October, in the second matchday of the Champions League league phase at the Stadio Olimpico, marking José Mourinho's return to the stadium. The fixture is one of the season's marquee European occasions. The stadium is being prepared extensively for the occasion. Grounds staff have laid Champions League branded matting, installed the Real Madrid crest on the dugout benches, and placed the competition logo on VAR monitor displays. More than 60,000 supporters are expected to fill the Olimpico for the European night.