Orsato to replace Rocchi as Italy's referee designator; Gasperini discusses transfers and Champions League

Gian Piero Gasperini said Roma's contract renewals are imminent, describing the situation as "a matter of days" in an interview at a Champions League event. The head coach confirmed he remains in constant contact with the Friedkin Group ownership and expects significant movement in the coming week as the new season approaches and the transfer window gains momentum. "Certainly we hear from each other very much, but there is also continuous dialogue with the Ownership," Gasperini said. "Now that we are getting closer to the start of the season, to the market... the World Cup shifted attention away from everything, for the players and for the agents themselves. From next week I think we will get into the thick of things." Gasperini highlighted Roma's solid foundation after securing Champions League football. "I believe Roma has demonstrated it has a good base, a solid and competitive group," he said. "The Ownership's objective is to improve as much as possible. We will try to work, especially D'Amico who is very committed on all fronts, to give satisfaction to the fans." Reflecting on last season's campaign, Gasperini noted the team struggled only briefly despite a difficult spell in March. "After the defeat to Inter it became difficult, but this squad in 38 matches found itself in difficulty for two games if we talk about the Champions zone," he said, pointing to a strong finish that secured their return to European football's elite club competition.

Argentina recovered from 0–2 down to defeat Egypt 3–2 in just over ten minutes, advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals. Paulo Dybala, who recently agreed a contract renewal with Roma, was not selected by coach Scaloni but celebrated the Albiceleste's comeback on social media, posting a television screenshot with the caption "Argentina c**ajo". His Roma teammate Matías Soulé also shared his support online, writing "Locuraaa". Dybala's involvement underscores the connection between Roma's squad and international football at the highest level. The winger's recent renewal agreement with the club marks continuity in the Giallorossi's attacking options, whilst his presence in Argentina's World Cup campaign—despite not being called up for this particular match—reflects his standing within the national setup. Both players chose to amplify Argentina's dramatic turnaround through their personal channels, demonstrating the emotional investment Roma's contingent maintains in their respective national teams even when competing at continental level.

Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that Roma's pre-season will begin next week and outlined the club's ambitions following Champions League qualification. Speaking at a Sky Sport 2026–27 schedule presentation, the head coach stated: "After the qualification in Champions we want to be protagonists also in the next season." Gasperini revealed he is in constant contact with sporting director Tony D'Amico and the ownership, with the transfer market set to intensify in the coming days. On contract renewals, he offered reassurance: "They will be announced by the club, but we are all happy to continue together. It is a matter of days." Paulo Dybala will remain at Roma after a total agreement was reached on his contract renewal, with all bonus details finalised. The club is expected to announce the extension shortly. Franck Kessié is also on Roma's radar, with Gasperini having managed the midfielder at Atalanta and appreciating his physical and dynamic qualities. However, Kessié's wage demands remain prohibitively high despite his availability on a free transfer, making the move unlikely unless he significantly reduces his salary expectations. Analysts have questioned the feasibility of a move for Mason Greenwood, with concerns focused on both the transfer fee to Marseille and Greenwood's own financial demands. Roberto Pruzzo noted that if Roma do proceed with signing Greenwood as an alternative to current striker Artem Dovbyk, the club should prioritise establishing clear targets rather than speculative moves ahead of what is expected to be a two-year title push.