Roma deliver four-goal statement in season opener

Roma opened their 2026–27 campaign with a dominant 4–0 victory over Fiorentina, with the partnership of Donyell Malen and Paulo Dybala at the heart of a scintillating display. Malen scored three goals, all created by Dybala's playmaking, before Niccolò Pisilli sealed the result in the closing stages, replacing Manu Koné. The standout impression came from young left-back Lulli, who delivered an assured performance in his first Serie A start at the highest level. The emphatic win provided an ideal platform for Gian Piero Gasperini's Roma to begin the new season. Dybala's creative excellence underpinned the attacking threat throughout, while the defence was sufficiently organised to limit Fiorentina to no clear opportunities. The performance suggested Roma's front-four setup—with Dybala in a creative role alongside Malen—could prove a potent combination in the campaign ahead. Italian football newspapers were unanimous in their praise of the performance and individual displays. La Gazzetta dello Sport awarded Malen 8.5 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini earning an 8 overall. Corriere dello Sport went higher, rating both attackers 9 and the coach 8. Corriere della Sera gave Malen 9 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini receiving 7.5. Il Messaggero and Tuttosport were slightly more measured, rating Malen 8.5 and 8 respectively, and Dybala 8 across both outlets. Lulli received ratings of 6.5 to 7.5 across the publications for his assured debut display.

Roma demolished Fiorentina 4–0 in a commanding display, with Donyell Malen scoring a hat-trick to lead the charge. Paulo Dybala contributed three assists and Manu Koné was withdrawn only through fatigue, underlining Roma's control. Debutant Daniele Ghilardi impressed in an early appearance, while Evan N'Dicka stood firm at the back as the team moved to 3–4–1–2 formation under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. All five major Italian newspapers awarded Roma positive marks across the board. Svilar received ratings between 6 and 6.5 in goal. The defence was solid, with N'Dicka rated 7 to 7.5 by all outlets and Mancini and Hermoso both praised. In midfield, Cristante earned 6.5 to 7, while Wesley was rated 6 to 7 on the flank. Koné's 6.5 to 7.5 reflected his strong showing before substitution. Malen's 8.5 to 9 and Dybala's 8 to 9 dominated the attacking ratings. Corrections made 68 minutes in saw Koulierakis introduced for Hermoso, while Pisilli replaced Koné at 79 minutes. Rodrigo Mora (6.5) and later Matías Soulé (6) featured in attack; Santiago Castro entered for Malen at 68 minutes. Gasperini earned 7.5 to 8 from the press corps. N'Dicka's display of 7 to 7.5, Koné's energy and Ghilardi's first appearance highlighted a Roma side functioning with precision and depth throughout.

Donyell Malen scored three goals in Roma's season opener, converted from chances created by Paulo Dybala, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side delivered an emphatic display. The result extended Gasperini's record to nine consecutive opening-day victories across his career. Dybala, now approaching 33, demonstrated creativity and composure, setting up all three of Malen's finishes and establishing an early statement of intent to Roma's rivals. Roma qualified for the Champions League on the final day of last season at Verona and carried that momentum directly into this campaign. The squad shows minimal alterations from the previous year, with Gasperini adding layers of personality and conviction that take effect immediately. Beyond the Malen–Dybala partnership, Manu Koné provided composure, while Evan N'Dicka and Gianluca Mancini displayed determination in defence. This is Gasperini's second season in the capital, and the city knows there will be no fumbling in unfamiliar territory—Champions League qualification has swept away doubts and pretence, leaving only an expectation of confirmation rather than a desperate hunt for lost enthusiasm. According to analysis from Pier Francesco Archetti in La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma took the pitch with concrete execution and a surprise showing from Lulli in midfield. Gasperini's soft voice typically insists the improvements are never quite enough, but he has equipped the group with a personality that commands attention, combined with the creativity and effectiveness of the two main protagonists. The performance suggested that preparation and conviction function immediately within his methods.

Roma opened their 2026–27 campaign with a dominant 4–0 victory over Fiorentina, with the partnership of Donyell Malen and Paulo Dybala at the heart of a scintillating display. Malen scored three goals, all created by Dybala's playmaking, before Niccolò Pisilli sealed the result in the closing stages, replacing Manu Koné. The standout impression came from young left-back Lulli, who delivered an assured performance in his first Serie A start at the highest level. The emphatic win provided an ideal platform for Gian Piero Gasperini's Roma to begin the new season. Dybala's creative excellence underpinned the attacking threat throughout, while the defence was sufficiently organised to limit Fiorentina to no clear opportunities. The performance suggested Roma's front-four setup—with Dybala in a creative role alongside Malen—could prove a potent combination in the campaign ahead. Italian football newspapers were unanimous in their praise of the performance and individual displays. La Gazzetta dello Sport awarded Malen 8.5 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini earning an 8 overall. Corriere dello Sport went higher, rating both attackers 9 and the coach 8. Corriere della Sera gave Malen 9 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini receiving 7.5. Il Messaggero and Tuttosport were slightly more measured, rating Malen 8.5 and 8 respectively, and Dybala 8 across both outlets. Lulli received ratings of 6.5 to 7.5 across the publications for his assured debut display.

Roma demolished Fiorentina 4–0 in a commanding display, with Donyell Malen scoring a hat-trick to lead the charge. Paulo Dybala contributed three assists and Manu Koné was withdrawn only through fatigue, underlining Roma's control. Debutant Daniele Ghilardi impressed in an early appearance, while Evan N'Dicka stood firm at the back as the team moved to 3–4–1–2 formation under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. All five major Italian newspapers awarded Roma positive marks across the board. Svilar received ratings between 6 and 6.5 in goal. The defence was solid, with N'Dicka rated 7 to 7.5 by all outlets and Mancini and Hermoso both praised. In midfield, Cristante earned 6.5 to 7, while Wesley was rated 6 to 7 on the flank. Koné's 6.5 to 7.5 reflected his strong showing before substitution. Malen's 8.5 to 9 and Dybala's 8 to 9 dominated the attacking ratings. Corrections made 68 minutes in saw Koulierakis introduced for Hermoso, while Pisilli replaced Koné at 79 minutes. Rodrigo Mora (6.5) and later Matías Soulé (6) featured in attack; Santiago Castro entered for Malen at 68 minutes. Gasperini earned 7.5 to 8 from the press corps. N'Dicka's display of 7 to 7.5, Koné's energy and Ghilardi's first appearance highlighted a Roma side functioning with precision and depth throughout.

Donyell Malen scored three goals in Roma's season opener, converted from chances created by Paulo Dybala, as Gian Piero Gasperini's side delivered an emphatic display. The result extended Gasperini's record to nine consecutive opening-day victories across his career. Dybala, now approaching 33, demonstrated creativity and composure, setting up all three of Malen's finishes and establishing an early statement of intent to Roma's rivals. Roma qualified for the Champions League on the final day of last season at Verona and carried that momentum directly into this campaign. The squad shows minimal alterations from the previous year, with Gasperini adding layers of personality and conviction that take effect immediately. Beyond the Malen–Dybala partnership, Manu Koné provided composure, while Evan N'Dicka and Gianluca Mancini displayed determination in defence. This is Gasperini's second season in the capital, and the city knows there will be no fumbling in unfamiliar territory—Champions League qualification has swept away doubts and pretence, leaving only an expectation of confirmation rather than a desperate hunt for lost enthusiasm. According to analysis from Pier Francesco Archetti in La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma took the pitch with concrete execution and a surprise showing from Lulli in midfield. Gasperini's soft voice typically insists the improvements are never quite enough, but he has equipped the group with a personality that commands attention, combined with the creativity and effectiveness of the two main protagonists. The performance suggested that preparation and conviction function immediately within his methods.

Roma opened their 2026–27 campaign with a dominant 4–0 victory over Fiorentina, with the partnership of Donyell Malen and Paulo Dybala at the heart of a scintillating display. Malen scored three goals, all created by Dybala's playmaking, before Niccolò Pisilli sealed the result in the closing stages, replacing Manu Koné. The standout impression came from young left-back Lulli, who delivered an assured performance in his first Serie A start at the highest level. The emphatic win provided an ideal platform for Gian Piero Gasperini's Roma to begin the new season. Dybala's creative excellence underpinned the attacking threat throughout, while the defence was sufficiently organised to limit Fiorentina to no clear opportunities. The performance suggested Roma's front-four setup—with Dybala in a creative role alongside Malen—could prove a potent combination in the campaign ahead. Italian football newspapers were unanimous in their praise of the performance and individual displays. La Gazzetta dello Sport awarded Malen 8.5 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini earning an 8 overall. Corriere dello Sport went higher, rating both attackers 9 and the coach 8. Corriere della Sera gave Malen 9 and Dybala 8, with Gasperini receiving 7.5. Il Messaggero and Tuttosport were slightly more measured, rating Malen 8.5 and 8 respectively, and Dybala 8 across both outlets. Lulli received ratings of 6.5 to 7.5 across the publications for his assured debut display.

Roma demolished Fiorentina 4–0 in a commanding display, with Donyell Malen scoring a hat-trick to lead the charge. Paulo Dybala contributed three assists and Manu Koné was withdrawn only through fatigue, underlining Roma's control. Debutant Daniele Ghilardi impressed in an early appearance, while Evan N'Dicka stood firm at the back as the team moved to 3–4–1–2 formation under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. All five major Italian newspapers awarded Roma positive marks across the board. Svilar received ratings between 6 and 6.5 in goal. The defence was solid, with N'Dicka rated 7 to 7.5 by all outlets and Mancini and Hermoso both praised. In midfield, Cristante earned 6.5 to 7, while Wesley was rated 6 to 7 on the flank. Koné's 6.5 to 7.5 reflected his strong showing before substitution. Malen's 8.5 to 9 and Dybala's 8 to 9 dominated the attacking ratings. Corrections made 68 minutes in saw Koulierakis introduced for Hermoso, while Pisilli replaced Koné at 79 minutes. Rodrigo Mora (6.5) and later Matías Soulé (6) featured in attack; Santiago Castro entered for Malen at 68 minutes. Gasperini earned 7.5 to 8 from the press corps. N'Dicka's display of 7 to 7.5, Koné's energy and Ghilardi's first appearance highlighted a Roma side functioning with precision and depth throughout.

Rodrigo Mora has impressed head coach Gian Piero Gasperini despite being deployed from the first minute, but the manager has signalled that a second attacking reinforcement is needed to complete the summer overhaul. Mora's contract contains a €110 million release clause. Sports director D'Amico is focused on identifying that final piece after closing the Oosterwolde deal, responding to Gasperini's requests made at the start of summer. With Lyon's decision on Fofana still pending, Donyell Malen sits atop Roma's target list. Chelsea have already rejected Roma's opening proposal for the winger, but the club intends to return with a fresh bid in the coming days. Chelsea have also registered interest in Manu Koné should Enzo Fernandez depart, while Crystal Palace have reportedly approached Roma regarding Neil El Aynaoui. Meanwhile, Roma are working to find solutions for surplus players Anass Salah-Eddine and Vasquez, the remaining members outside the project still at Trigoria.

Roma continue their hunt for a winger in the final week of the transfer window, with Paris Saint-Germain's Mbaye now on the list alongside existing targets Fofana and Gittens. Director D'Amico ruled out the sale of a major player in recent days, but Jan Ziółkowski is close to leaving, with both Parma and Monza interested in the defender. Ziółkowski faces an imminent departure after attracting attention from Serie A sides Parma and Monza. Crystal Palace have also made enquiries about Neil El Aynaoui, suggesting interest in another Roma squad member. Rodriguez Mora's contract includes a €110 million release clause, according to Il Tempo. Roma's pursuit of attacking reinforcement on the wing continues as D'Amico balances departures with potential late arrivals before the window closes.

Roma demolished Fiorentina 4–0 in a commanding display, with Donyell Malen scoring a hat-trick to lead the charge. Paulo Dybala contributed three assists and Manu Koné was withdrawn only through fatigue, underlining Roma's control. Debutant Daniele Ghilardi impressed in an early appearance, while Evan N'Dicka stood firm at the back as the team moved to 3–4–1–2 formation under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. All five major Italian newspapers awarded Roma positive marks across the board. Svilar received ratings between 6 and 6.5 in goal. The defence was solid, with N'Dicka rated 7 to 7.5 by all outlets and Mancini and Hermoso both praised. In midfield, Cristante earned 6.5 to 7, while Wesley was rated 6 to 7 on the flank. Koné's 6.5 to 7.5 reflected his strong showing before substitution. Malen's 8.5 to 9 and Dybala's 8 to 9 dominated the attacking ratings. Corrections made 68 minutes in saw Koulierakis introduced for Hermoso, while Pisilli replaced Koné at 79 minutes. Rodrigo Mora (6.5) and later Matías Soulé (6) featured in attack; Santiago Castro entered for Malen at 68 minutes. Gasperini earned 7.5 to 8 from the press corps. N'Dicka's display of 7 to 7.5, Koné's energy and Ghilardi's first appearance highlighted a Roma side functioning with precision and depth throughout.

Rodrigo Mora has impressed head coach Gian Piero Gasperini despite being deployed from the first minute, but the manager has signalled that a second attacking reinforcement is needed to complete the summer overhaul. Mora's contract contains a €110 million release clause. Sports director D'Amico is focused on identifying that final piece after closing the Oosterwolde deal, responding to Gasperini's requests made at the start of summer. With Lyon's decision on Fofana still pending, Donyell Malen sits atop Roma's target list. Chelsea have already rejected Roma's opening proposal for the winger, but the club intends to return with a fresh bid in the coming days. Chelsea have also registered interest in Manu Koné should Enzo Fernandez depart, while Crystal Palace have reportedly approached Roma regarding Neil El Aynaoui. Meanwhile, Roma are working to find solutions for surplus players Anass Salah-Eddine and Vasquez, the remaining members outside the project still at Trigoria.