Roma and Milan Lead Chase for Final Two Champions League Spots

Roma opened the Stadio Olimpico to supporters on the previous day to launch its 2026–27 season ticket campaign, and the response was immediate: 11,000 fans renewed their subscriptions in a single day. The campaign began at 10:00 on that morning, with existing ticket holders given priority to renew their seats at a dedicated price until 10:00 on 20 July. A second phase runs from 12:00 on 20 July to 12:00 on 23 July for those who bought via waiting list or free sale last season. Phase 1.3 (14:30 on 23 July to 13:00 on 27 July) will offer remaining available seats across all sections. From 15:00 on 27 July to 13:00 on 29 July, fans on the waiting list get priority access; free sale begins at 15:00 on 29 July if spaces remain. The rush reflects the depth of supporter commitment ahead of the season opener on 24 August at the Olimpico against Fiorentina. Last season, approximately 1.6 million spectators attended Roma's home matches. Currently, 26,982 fans are on the waiting list, and not all are guaranteed to secure a ticket for the upcoming campaign. The club thanked supporters for their faith and backing during the season, acknowledging the significance of the fanbase to the organisation. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini will lead the team into the new campaign.

Bryan Cristante has become an indispensable figure for Roma in the 2025–26 season, finally silencing years of criticism by leading the club's midfield as they qualified for the Champions League and won a European trophy. The midfielder made 37 appearances from 38, accumulating 3,103 minutes—more than any other outfield player at the club. Deployed frequently by Gasperini in a two-man midfield pairing with Koné, Pisilli, or El Aynaoui, Cristante also operated as a central attacking midfielder behind two strikers to cover offensive shortcomings, showcasing the professionalism Gasperini considers essential for future campaigns. Cristante's goal tally was modest: two goals across all competitions, both in Serie A. He opened his account in Roma's 2–1 victory at Fiorentina on 5 October 2025, then added another in the 3–0 home win over Cremonese on 22 February 2026. Critics had long blamed his extended playing time for Roma's failure to reach the Champions League in previous seasons, but this campaign vindicated his consistent contribution. Gasperini, like Mourinho, De Rossi, Ranieri before him, and Italy manager Mancini—with whom Cristante won the 2021 European Championship—has consistently recognised his value. Cristante averaged a season rating of 6.2, slightly above par. Standout performances earned him 7-point ratings in derbies against Lazio (0–1 and 2–0), wins over Fiorentina (1–2), Sassuolo (0–1), and Roma–Como (1–0, receiving 7.5). His poorest showings came in Inter–Roma (5–2) and Genoa–Roma, both scored 4, though the Inter collapse saw the entire squad struggle.

Roma have launched their season ticket campaign for 2026–27, the campaign year leading to the club's centenary. The sales campaign opens tomorrow at 10:00 and unfolds across three phases. Phase 1.1 runs from tomorrow until 20 July at 10:00, allowing existing subscribers to renew at a discounted rate. Phase 1.2 follows from 12:00 on 23 July, giving first-time purchasers from the 2025–26 waiting list or general sale a chance to confirm their seats. Phase 1.3 (14:30–13:00, 23–27 July) permits renewals without seat confirmation. A waiting list access phase runs 15:00–13:00, 27–29 July, with 26,982 registered supporters eligible for priority purchase. General sales begin 15:00 on 29 July. The club recorded 79 sold-out fixtures and approximately 1.6 million spectators in the first season under Gian Piero Gasperini. The league campaign begins 24 August at the Olimpico against Fiorentina, with Roma returning to Champions League competition. Roma is marketing the campaign under the slogan "Solo la Roma" (Only Roma), referencing a Curva Sud choreography from the derby of 27 November 1994 (Lazio 0–3 Roma). Three subscription types are available: Classic (Champions League and Coppa Italia priority); Classic Extra (priority plus the ability to manage and resell seats for big matches only—maximum two games—with dedicated pre-sale and pricing); and Plus (all benefits included). Curva Nord subscriptions consist of 18 matches, excluding Roma–Lazio, with North Stand holders receiving a dedicated purchase phase and price for the home derby. The welcome pack is now exclusive to Plus subscribers. Payment can be spread across up to three instalments via the club's online platform.