Roma rout Fiorentina 4–0: Malen hat-trick leads rout as Gasperini's side impresses

Roma opened the 2026-27 season with a 4-0 victory over Fiorentina, a performance that went beyond the scoreline to signal intent across Serie A. Played at the Olimpico, the match saw Roma dominate from start to finish with what the article describes as a team displaying clear identity, hunger, and tactical maturity. Gian Piero Gasperini's squad moved with naturalness, pressed high, attacked spaces and sustained the same intensity that had carried them through a remarkable comeback campaign last season. Gasperini had pushed throughout the summer to preserve the core of his squad, insisting on keeping the players he considered essential to continuity. That strategy bore immediate fruit. Paulo Dybala was the standout performer, prompting Gasperini to describe him after the match as "a beast" — a characterisation the article frames as a rebuttal of suggestions that Dybala is fragile. Summer preparation appears to have restored Dybala to peak condition: explosive, sharp, and capable of influencing the entire match. His partnership with Donyell Malen proved particularly destructive — Dybala provided three assists and Malen scored a hat-trick, a combination the article suggests may become one of the most dangerous partnerships in the division. Two academy products made notable impressions on their debuts. Emanuele Lulli, thrown into a match that could have intimidated younger players, performed with surprising composure, showing leg, courage and personality without fear. Rodrigo Mora, used for limited minutes, demonstrated ball control, technical sensitivity, and quality movement in space. The article notes both players merit continued development, with Mora in particular showing visible talent despite his youth. The opening day has left Roma with momentum heading forward. The article acknowledges a single 4-0 in August reveals little about May's destination, but stresses that Roma appears to restart from exactly where the previous campaign ended: with conviction, identity and desire to improve. The squad has added quality and may add more before the transfer window closes. The article suggests that if club officials deliver the final two reinforcements Gasperini continues to request — not simple adjustments but players capable of raising the squad's level further — a genuine step forward could materialise.

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.

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 the 2026-27 season with a 4-0 victory over Fiorentina, a performance that went beyond the scoreline to signal intent across Serie A. Played at the Olimpico, the match saw Roma dominate from start to finish with what the article describes as a team displaying clear identity, hunger, and tactical maturity. Gian Piero Gasperini's squad moved with naturalness, pressed high, attacked spaces and sustained the same intensity that had carried them through a remarkable comeback campaign last season. Gasperini had pushed throughout the summer to preserve the core of his squad, insisting on keeping the players he considered essential to continuity. That strategy bore immediate fruit. Paulo Dybala was the standout performer, prompting Gasperini to describe him after the match as "a beast" — a characterisation the article frames as a rebuttal of suggestions that Dybala is fragile. Summer preparation appears to have restored Dybala to peak condition: explosive, sharp, and capable of influencing the entire match. His partnership with Donyell Malen proved particularly destructive — Dybala provided three assists and Malen scored a hat-trick, a combination the article suggests may become one of the most dangerous partnerships in the division. Two academy products made notable impressions on their debuts. Emanuele Lulli, thrown into a match that could have intimidated younger players, performed with surprising composure, showing leg, courage and personality without fear. Rodrigo Mora, used for limited minutes, demonstrated ball control, technical sensitivity, and quality movement in space. The article notes both players merit continued development, with Mora in particular showing visible talent despite his youth. The opening day has left Roma with momentum heading forward. The article acknowledges a single 4-0 in August reveals little about May's destination, but stresses that Roma appears to restart from exactly where the previous campaign ended: with conviction, identity and desire to improve. The squad has added quality and may add more before the transfer window closes. The article suggests that if club officials deliver the final two reinforcements Gasperini continues to request — not simple adjustments but players capable of raising the squad's level further — a genuine step forward could materialise.

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.

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 opened the 2026-27 season with a 4-0 victory over Fiorentina, a performance that went beyond the scoreline to signal intent across Serie A. Played at the Olimpico, the match saw Roma dominate from start to finish with what the article describes as a team displaying clear identity, hunger, and tactical maturity. Gian Piero Gasperini's squad moved with naturalness, pressed high, attacked spaces and sustained the same intensity that had carried them through a remarkable comeback campaign last season. Gasperini had pushed throughout the summer to preserve the core of his squad, insisting on keeping the players he considered essential to continuity. That strategy bore immediate fruit. Paulo Dybala was the standout performer, prompting Gasperini to describe him after the match as "a beast" — a characterisation the article frames as a rebuttal of suggestions that Dybala is fragile. Summer preparation appears to have restored Dybala to peak condition: explosive, sharp, and capable of influencing the entire match. His partnership with Donyell Malen proved particularly destructive — Dybala provided three assists and Malen scored a hat-trick, a combination the article suggests may become one of the most dangerous partnerships in the division. Two academy products made notable impressions on their debuts. Emanuele Lulli, thrown into a match that could have intimidated younger players, performed with surprising composure, showing leg, courage and personality without fear. Rodrigo Mora, used for limited minutes, demonstrated ball control, technical sensitivity, and quality movement in space. The article notes both players merit continued development, with Mora in particular showing visible talent despite his youth. The opening day has left Roma with momentum heading forward. The article acknowledges a single 4-0 in August reveals little about May's destination, but stresses that Roma appears to restart from exactly where the previous campaign ended: with conviction, identity and desire to improve. The squad has added quality and may add more before the transfer window closes. The article suggests that if club officials deliver the final two reinforcements Gasperini continues to request — not simple adjustments but players capable of raising the squad's level further — a genuine step forward could materialise.

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.

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.

Jan Ziółkowski is facing an exit from Roma following the arrivals of Koulierakis and Oosterwolde, which have closed the door on the young Polish defender. Parma and Monza have both made enquiries, with Parma seeking a loan deal while Monza have tabled a permanent offer. Foreign clubs, particularly from Saudi Arabia, are also monitoring the situation. Negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming days. Ziółkowski's path at Roma has been blocked by the new defensive signings brought in this summer. During the recent match against Fiorentina, he remained unused on the bench for the full 90 minutes, unlike Ghilardi, who came on as a substitute and is heading towards staying at the club.

Roma begin the 2026-27 Serie A season at home to Fiorentina, with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini naming Rodrigo Mora in the attacking midfield role behind Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen. Matías Soulé drops to the bench. Lulli makes his competitive debut on the right flank in place of Nahuel Molina, who is not at full fitness; Wesley operates on the left. The defence comprises Gianluca Mancini, Evan N'Dicka, and Mario Hermoso, with Mile Svilar in goal. Gasperini's 3-4-1-2 formation pairs Bryan Cristante and Manu Koné in midfield. Fiorentina, managed by Grosso, line up in a 4-3-2-1 with David De Gea in goal and Lautaro Pellegrino as their striker. Roma's substitutes bench includes De Marzi, Koulierakis, Ghilardi, Ziółkowski, El Aynaoui, Pisilli, Vaz, Castro, and Soulé.

Roma take on Fiorentina at Stadio Olimpico at 20:45 in the opening fixture of the Serie A season. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has named a 22-man squad for the match, with all new signings included in the selection. The squad omits Lorenzo Pellegrini and Devyne Rensch. In goal, Gasperini has selected Mile Svilar, Giorgio De Marzi, and Pierluigi Gollini. The defence includes Konstantinos Koulierakis, Evan N'Dicka, Nahuel Molina, Mario Hermoso, Gianluca Mancini, Jan Ziółkowski, Wesley, Lulli, and Daniele Ghilardi. Midfield options are Bryan Cristante, Neil El Aynaoui, Manu Koné, Niccolò Pisilli, and Rodrigo Mora. Attacking players named are Santiago Castro, Donyell Malen, Matías Soulé, Paulo Dybala, and Robinio Vaz.