Roma in Europe

Malick Fofana, the Belgian winger, started Lyon's opening leg of the Champions League preliminary round against Fenerbahçe on 18 August, which ended 1–1. After the match, Lyon manager Paulo Fonseca was asked about the 2005-born player's future availability for the return fixture. Fonseca said: "Will he be there on the return? I think so. He is very important for us, I believe in all the players in our squad. They will be ready for the return." Roma are pushing to complete a deal for Fofana to strengthen their attack, but Lyon are unlikely to release him before the return match on 26 August. The French club regard him as a key player for their European campaign and are resisting Roma's overtures for a premature departure.

Rodrigo Mora is set to become a Roma player, arriving in the capital at 16:30 to undergo medical examinations and sign his contract with the club. UEFA's Europa League account published a video of a 2025 Porto–Roma fixture to mark the signing, showing Mora evading the marking of Zeki Çelik and Tommaso Baldanzi, as well as Niccolò Pisilli, with Claudio Ranieri and Paulo Dybala watching from the bench. Mora entered the match in the 63rd minute of a Europa League play-off first leg that finished 1–1 at the Estádio do Dragão. Roma progressed to the last 16 with a 3–2 comeback victory in the return fixture. The timing of the video's release, coinciding with Mora's imminent arrival at the club, highlighted his previous performance against several current or former Roma players during that European tie.

Roma supporters have purchased nearly 10,000 cup competition subscriptions within a day of the 2026–27 campaign opening. The sale began at noon on 12 August, with an initial phase reserved for holders of Serie A season tickets. The response was immediate, with almost 10,000 fans committing to match tickets within just over 24 hours. The Cup Subscription covers the four home fixtures in the League Phase of the Champions League and the Coppa Italia round of 16. The early take-up underscores the enthusiasm surrounding Roma's return to European club football's premier competition. The preferential purchase phase remains open until Wednesday, 19 August, allowing season-ticket holders to exercise their right to buy. Once that period closes—provided seats remain available—general sale will open to all Roma supporters. Club officials expect subscription numbers to continue rising through the remainder of the preferential window. The strong opening figures reflect what the club describes as genuine excitement among the fanbase ahead of another season as protagonists at the Stadio Olimpico.

Roma welcomed UEFA's head of referees Roberto Rosetti to Trigoria on 13 August for a meeting with the club's coaching staff and players to discuss new competition directives for the 2026-27 season. Led by Paulo Dybala, the squad and technical team gathered to clarify regulations designed to improve game flow and reduce time-wasting: a countdown on throw-ins and goal kicks, ten seconds permitted for substitutions, and new VAR intervention scenarios for double yellow-card offences. The visit marks Roma's preparation for their return to the Champions League after their absence. Gasperini has been particularly focused on the balance between VAR technology use and the referee's authority on the pitch, a topic the meeting addressed. Rosetti sought maximum cooperation and trust from the giallorossi as they embark on their European campaign, offering the club valuable clarity on the new regulations to begin their continental journey without lingering disputes.

Malick Fofana played 85 minutes for Lyon in their 3–0 victory over Sparta Praga on 11 August, securing a place in the Champions League play-offs against Fenerbahce. The Belgian winger, playing primarily on the left flank, earned a SofaScore rating of 6.7, combining defensive positioning with attacking runs into the penalty area. Lyon had lost the opening leg in Prague 2–1 but reversed the tie decisively with goals from Nuamah, Maitland-Niles (formerly of Roma), and Morton. Fofana has been identified as a summer transfer target for Roma's attack, and his performance underlines the profile the club is pursuing. However, Inter have now entered the race for the 2005-born winger, particularly if Luis Henrique departs. Both players are represented by Roc Nation, the same agency, which has positioned Henrique prominently in Roma's recent transfer discussions. The convergence of targets and agency representation signals an intensifying competition between the two Italian clubs in the final weeks of the window.

AS Roma has confirmed full details of its Champions League season ticket package for the 2026–27 season, marking the club's return to the competition. The subscription grants access to five home matches, with prices starting from €31 per game. The package is broader than Roma's last Champions League participation in 2018–19, when only the three group-stage home fixtures were included. Two ticket formulas will be available. Existing Serie A season-ticket holders will have first access to purchase Champions League subscriptions, with the option to select a different seat from their league allocation. Roma highlighted that the €31-per-game entry point is competitive against major European clubs: comparative packages at other top sides typically cover four home matches at €34–50 per game, whereas Roma's offering spans five fixtures at a lower average cost. The initial sales phase is reserved for 2026–27 Serie A subscribers. Any remaining capacity will then open to general ticket sales, available to all supporters until sold out. The Champions League season ticket does not include the ability to transfer the subscription to another user.

Roma will begin selling season ticket packages for the 2026-27 cup competitions from 12:00 on 12 August. The club qualified for the Champions League on the pitch and is now offering subscriptions covering five matches: the four home group-stage games in the Champions League and the Coppa Italia Round of 16 tie. Sales will happen in two phases. Season ticket holders for Serie A 2026-27 can purchase first, while open sales to the general public begin at 15:00 on Wednesday, 19 August. Pricing is tiered by subscription type: the Classic package costs €31 per match, while the Plus package is €35 per match. Subscribers will not be permitted to transfer their seat to another user. This represents Roma's next phase of ticketing for the domestic and European campaign after securing Champions League football for 2026-27.

Bryan Cristante expressed excitement about Roma's return to the Champions League following a strong season, speaking from the club's pre-season camp in Wales. The midfielder emphasized the importance of the Friedkin Group's involvement: "Important is that the society is always present here, it gives everyone extra momentum, on the market, on everyday situations. Now they are focused on the market, then other discussions will happen later when the squad is final." Cristante acknowledged the club's ambitions while stressing immediate priorities. "Certainly it is always a dream anyway, but now it is still too early," he said of potential trophies. "We want first and foremost to repeat the great season of last year, to stay in the top four, which is already something very difficult in the Italian league for the competitiveness that exists, and to play a great Champions League. Then, if we arrive in January or February, when the league will be a bit more outlined, and we are still there playing for it, we will try. But the important thing is to do another solid season and continue to grow." Cristante also reflected on previous managers, saying his memories with one were "only beautiful" and that the club's objective is "to be reborn and return to where we belong." He noted improvements in the squad's physical conditioning and expressed a desire to visit Real Madrid's rebuilt Bernabéu stadium.

Evan N'Dicka has dismissed speculation surrounding his future at Roma, reaffirming his commitment to the club ahead of the new Champions League campaign. Speaking exclusively, the defender stated he has never considered leaving and is determined to fight for the Giallorossi. N'Dicka expressed his ambition for the European competition, calling it special and emphasising the squad's collective drive to compete at the highest level. The left-back's comments come as Roma prepare for their return to the Champions League following qualification. N'Dicka, a key figure in the club's defence since joining in 2023, has established himself as a cornerstone of Gasperini's defensive setup. His remarks suggest Roma are focused on their European objectives rather than being distracted by the transfer market. N'Dicka also referenced a difficult moment during Roma's recent match at Udinese, where he experienced fear on the pitch—likely alluding to an incident that tested his resolve. His unequivocal stance on staying and his appetite for Champions League football underline Roma's intent to build momentum in the coming season.

Evan N'Dicka has spoken ahead of Roma's Champions League campaign, emphasizing the club's ambitions after finishing third in Serie A last season. The defender, now in his fourth season at Roma under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, said: "It's beautiful to play in this competition, but we don't want to be extras. We have to be ambitious. We have to go step by step, Serie A is a complicated championship and finishing third is not simple. We are working to do better." N'Dicka is a key defensive leader for Gasperini's side, which secured Champions League qualification last term. The centre-back acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that Serie A remains one of Europe's toughest leagues and that European competition demands a different level of intensity and consistency. The full interview will be published on 6 August on Forzaroma.info, where N'Dicka discusses these themes and other aspects of his role and Roma's season ahead.

Donyell Malen has emphasised that Roma's return to the Champions League after seven years ranks above personal achievement, as the club targets back-to-back qualification. The Dutch forward arrived in January and scored 14 goals in Serie A, proving instrumental in securing Roma's European berth—a feat the club had not managed in over half a decade. Speaking to the Messaggero, Malen stressed the collective priority: "Always nice for a striker to score many goals and help the team win. At the end of the day, the great success of last year was not my tally, but the Champions League place we achieved. Roma hadn't played in it for many years. It would be a dream to replicate what we got last year." Malen has quickly become Roma's leading man since his midseason arrival, winning supporters and establishing himself as a focal point of the squad's attacking play. While individual accolades hold appeal, he has made clear that consistency and progression matter most going forward. "Is it my dream to be top scorer? The important thing is to play at high levels. It's not just about goals, but creating many chances and making assists. I know my qualities in finishing and if I improve week after week, who knows where I can get to," he said.

Roma secured qualification for the Champions League on 22 May when a 2–0 away victory at Hellas Verona confirmed third place in Serie A, marking the club's return to Europe's elite competition after seven years. The financial reward is substantial: according to UEFA's guaranteed minimum prize structure for the 2026–27 season, Roma will receive €49.4 million, behind only Inter Milan (€56.5 million) and ahead of Napoli (€43.3 million). The remaining Italian sides in European competition are Como (€28.3 million), Juventus (€14.9 million), Milan (€14.2 million), and Atalanta (€0.9 million). The guaranteed minimum represents the worst-case scenario: losing all eight group-stage matches and finishing last. That floor of nearly €50 million comprises a participation fee, a value pillar based on the club's five- and ten-year UEFA coefficients and market pool valuation, and bonuses for group-stage points, final position, and knockout results. Revenue from ticket sales for the four home group-stage fixtures can be added on top. According to analysis by Football Meets Data, Roma could accumulate as much as €74.9 million across a simulated 10,000-season pathway, depending on their campaign's success.

Gian Piero Gasperini has outlined Roma's transfer priorities after the friendly in Wales, insisting the squad must be strengthened with four players overall to handle a demanding Champions League schedule. The coach has emphasised the need for two players in every position, and with Castro and Koulierakis already secured, the focus has shifted to the flanks. President Dan Friedkin sent new CEO John Galantic to Wales to work closely with Gasperini and oversee negotiations, while Tony D'Amico continues talks mindful of UEFA fair play rules linked to profit and loss accounting. For the attacking flank, Nusa of Leipzig remains the dream target, though the deal carries significant financial obstacles. Roma are also monitoring Endrick's situation at Real Madrid, ready to move if the young Brazilian is starved of playing time. The right-back hunt centres on Givairo Read of Feyenoord, with negotiations ranging between €25 million and €30 million in fixed fees and bonuses. Should Angeliño depart, Roma are eyeing Cacciamani of Torino for the left flank, though Torino's valuation has temporarily stalled discussions; Roma will attempt to make the deal more economical in the coming days.

Mile Svilar addressed reporters following Roma's friendly against Cannes, firmly stating he had received no contact regarding reported Juventus interest. "Frankly I know nothing about this story. I cannot say anything, because I was not consulted. For me today there is only Roma and I am focused on giving my best for this shirt, this club and these fans," the goalkeeper said. Roma are in their pre-season preparation phase, with Svilar highlighting the intensity of the physical work underway. He felt the first half against Cannes went well but questioned the dismissal of Wesley, which forced Roma to play with a numerical disadvantage in a friendly fixture. Svilar stressed that results cannot yet be measured and that another month of work is needed before competitive matches begin. With Champions League football on the horizon alongside domestic duties, he acknowledged the challenge of the double commitment but expressed confidence in Roma's ability to manage it. Looking ahead to the season, Svilar declared: "Frankly? I do not fear anyone. I cannot wait to play real matches, whatever opponent we face." The goalkeeper's comments underline Roma's ambitions as they prepare for a campaign that will include Europe's premier club competition.

Santiago Castro has become a familiar thorn in Roma's side since arriving in Italy, facing the Giallorossi seven times and scoring twice while adding two assists and suffering only two defeats. The Argentine forward's most significant performance came in the Europa League round-of-16 second leg at the Olimpico, where he orchestrated Bologna's comeback victory in front of a packed stadium. After a 1–1 draw in the first leg at the Dall'Ara, Castro provided the assist for Rowe's opening goal before adding his own clinical finish—a right-footed strike into the top corner that left Mile Svilar helpless—to make it 3–1. Castro has now demonstrated his complete attacking arsenal at the Olimpico: intelligent link-up play, determination, and clinical finishing. He had previously left his mark in a Roma–Bologna fixture at the same venue the season before, scoring opportunistically from a corner and setting up Orsolini for the 2–1 goal. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is keen to harness Castro's qualities and develop him further, drawing on his proven track record of elevating attacking talent throughout his career.

Roma have made no new additions to their squad ahead of next season's Champions League group phase, with Donyell Malen's permanent signing from Aston Villa for €25 million not counting as a fresh arrival since the Dutch winger joined on loan in January. Only three other clubs already qualified for Europe's top competition—Napoli, Paris Saint-Germain, and Villarreal—have similarly avoided summer reinforcements so far. Napoli have invested over €60 million in permanent signings but acquired only players already in their 2025–26 squad, including the redemptions of Højlund, Alisson Santos, and Milinkovic-Savic. PSG, the reigning European champions, have only brought in 18-year-old goalkeeper Alessandro Longoni from AC Milan's youth academy on a free transfer, a prospect likely destined for the Under-19s rather than the first team. Villarreal, meanwhile, remain at zero spending. As rivals strengthen their ranks—Sporting investing over €100 million, Como confirming Nico Paz for €60 million and rescuing Morata while signing Liberali and Milla for €6 million each—Roma face mounting pressure to act. Arsenal have spent €80 million on Hincapié and Tzolis; Manchester City €135 million on Anderson alone; Manchester United €97 million on Andrey Santos and Tielemans.

Bryan Cristante spoke after Roma's 6–0 victory over Trastevere in a pre-season test under Gasperini's watch. The midfielder confirmed he has been in contact with Lorenzo Pellegrini, saying: "I've heard from him, we await him with open arms and hope he returns to the group as soon as possible." Cristante outlined Roma's ambitions for the coming season. "We expect to show continuity," he said. "We want to grow and have another great season. The Champions League makes everything harder—the initial phase will be tougher. But we want to run a strong campaign." He stressed that the squad is already familiar with Gasperini's concepts and is building steadily, with the club handling transfer business separately. On European competition, Cristante acknowledged the step up: "In the Champions League you face the best teams. Even in the first phase there are important sides. We need to be prepared and ready." The midfielder stopped short of setting specific targets for now, citing the difficulty of doing so at this early stage.

Bryan Cristante outlined Roma's ambitions in pre-season after the club's 6–0 friendly victory over Trastevere. The midfielder highlighted the squad's progress under Gasperini's direction, saying: "We're working well, we already know the manager's concepts, we're giving continuity. We started strong, there's a lot of work but that's how this period is." On incoming transfers, Cristante deferred to the club's hierarchy: "Someone will certainly arrive, but that's the society's job." With Lorenzo Pellegrini absent from the ritiro, Cristante confirmed he has been in contact with the captain and expects his swift return to group training. "I've spoken to him, we're awaiting him with open arms, we hope he gets back to the squad as soon as possible," Cristante said. Gasperini has set ambitious targets for the campaign, and Cristante reflected the squad's mindset: "We want to give continuity, we want to grow, make another great season. The Champions League is harder, it will be tough especially at the start. It's difficult to set objectives now." Regarding European competition, Cristante acknowledged the challenge of facing elite opponents early in the new league phase: "You meet the best teams there are, even in the first phase already. We're ready and prepared, we'll be ready for a beautiful season."

English referee Anthony Taylor has retired from football at the age of 47, ending his international career following his involvement in the 2026 World Cup. In a statement via the Professional Referees' Organisation, Taylor said: "Arbitrating elite-level matches has been an immense privilege, but the pressure has been intense. It is time to step aside, and I look forward to moving on to the next chapter of my life." Taylor's retirement carries particular significance for Roma fans. He refereed the 2023 Europa League final between Sevilla and Roma on 31 May at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, a match that remains a source of deep frustration within the club. In the closing stages, Taylor failed to award a clear penalty when Sevilla midfielder Fernando handled the ball in the penalty area — a decision that potentially cost Roma a second consecutive European title. The incident sparked fierce criticism from then–manager José Mourinho, whose protests in the stadium garage became widely remembered, and sustained anger among the Roma support. Over his career, Taylor oversaw 831 matches in English football across the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, and served as a referee at World Cups in 2022 and 2026. His exit closes the chapter on a decorated but controversial career that will be forever linked in Roma's memory to that disputed final in Budapest.

Manu Koné's World Cup campaign ended in the semifinal as France fell 2–0 to Spain. The Roma midfielder started on the bench before entering the pitch at half-time and completing the second 45 minutes, but could not help overturn the match. Spain progressed to the final courtesy of goals from Pedro Porro and Mikel Oyarzabal, confirming their strong tournament run and eliminating the Bleus at the penultimate stage. Koné, born in 2001, had delivered solid performances earlier in the competition, including in the quarter-final against Morocco. His second-half appearance in the semifinal represented an attempt by France to inject greater dynamism into midfield, though the adjustment proved unsuccessful. The Roma centrocampi concluded his World Cup experience without preventing defeat. With his international commitments finished, Koné is now expected to return to Trigoria to rejoin Gian Piero Gasperini's squad and begin preparations for the new season.

UEFA has confirmed the total prize money for the 2026–27 Champions League at approximately €2.5 billion (€2.437 billion) to be distributed among participating clubs. Roma, which qualified for the competition after a demanding campaign, will benefit from a detailed reward structure across multiple levels. Qualification to the league phase alone is worth €18.62 million, comprising an initial payment of €17.87 million and a balance of €750,000. Clubs also earn performance bonuses of €2.1 million per win and €700,000 per draw. The first-phase standings bonus operates through a quota system of €275,000 units, with the top-ranked team receiving 36 of 666 available quotes, scaling downwards by position. Additional prizes are available for progression through knockout stages, alongside revenue from the value pillar—a mechanism combining market pool and UEFA coefficient calculations.

Paulo Dybala has recommitted to AS Roma following his automatic contract renewal, capping a resurgence that helped secure the club's return to the Champions League for the first time in seven years. The Argentine playmaker delivered decisively in the final stretch of the 2025–26 season, recording assists for Malen and El Shaarawy in matches against Verona—the goals that sealed Europa League qualification and promotion to the group stage. Over 27 appearances in that run, Dybala posted 3 goals and 8 assists. Since joining Roma in 2022, Dybala has compiled 140 matches, 45 goals and 30 assists across all positions—attacker, second striker, attacking midfielder and creative fulcrum. His debut campaign (2022–23) proved prolific with 18 goals and 8 assists before injury despite a standout display against Inter and a vital Europa League goal against Feyenoord. The following year brought 16 goals in 39 matches with 10 assists. A proposed summer transfer to Al-Qadsiah fell through when Dybala chose to remain in the Eternal City, but form and fitness suffered under successive managers, leaving him sidelined until early 2026. After knee surgery in March forced another layoff, his timely return proved crucial. The lingering scar from the 31 May 2023 final—a missed opportunity to change Roma's history—remains, but the coming seasons offer fresh chances to heal that wound.

AS Roma midfielder Manu Koné has been named in the starting lineup for France's World Cup Round of 16 match against Paraguay. Koné will play alongside Adrien Rabiot in midfield as France manager Didier Deschamps continues to deploy the Roma player from the opening matches. This marks Koné's third start of the tournament and his first appearance in the knockout phase after being used as a substitute in the Round of 32 against Sweden. Paraguay reached this stage after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Germany. Koné remains a key player in Deschamps' setup, valued for his ability to provide midfield balance while allowing France to deploy their attacking potential. The Friedkin Group manager Gasperini relies heavily on the midfielder, and his World Cup performances continue to demonstrate his importance to both club and country. Koné's selection underlines his status as an essential player in France's push toward the tournament's latter stages. If France advance past Paraguay, Koné and his teammates will face the winner of the Canada match in the quarter-finals. His continued involvement in the World Cup represents a significant commitment of playing time away from Roma during the international break.

An analysis examines Donyell Malen's performance impact at Roma and what statistical data suggests about the club's European prospects. The piece uses a Latin metaphor—'It is good that a ship relies on two anchors'—to frame discussions around Roma's squad balance and tactical approach. The article appears to assess whether Malen's contributions align with expectations and how performance metrics may influence Roma's trajectory in continental competition. Details remain unclear on specific findings and the full scope of the analysis.

Niccolò Pisilli will not leave Roma. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has closed the door to any departure, and the midfielder himself is equally committed to the club. Porto submitted a 25 million euro offer that was immediately rejected; other suitors including Nottingham and Como have also made approaches, but the club has made its position unambiguous. Gasperini views Pisilli as foundational to Roma's squad architecture and essential to the club's regulatory requirements in European competition. UEFA rules demand a minimum of eight homegrown players in the 25-man Champions League roster, with at least four developed directly from the club's academy. Pisilli fits that invaluable category—products of Trigoria—and cannot be easily replaced. Beyond his technical qualities, his status as an academy product gives Roma a mandatory Champions League slot that no foreign signing can substitute. The midfielder has already played a part in Roma's Champions League qualification and produced a double against Stuttgart in European competition. Pisilli struggled initially under Gasperini's system, notably after an error in Nice drew criticism from the coach. However, he responded with consistent performances, earning regular playing time and proving integral to the club's European campaign. The 2027 season could mark his definitive breakthrough into undisputed first-team status. His emotional attachment to Roma's colours and the club's refusal to listen to transfer proposals—no matter the fee—signals that Pisilli represents both the present and future of the Giallorossi.

AS Roma may still have room to resolve its position with UEFA following a failure to meet a financial target. The club is exploring a settlement agreement with European football's governing body, with discussions potentially extending to late July rather than an earlier deadline. This delay could provide Roma additional time to address regulatory compliance and financial fair play requirements. The exact nature of the missed target and specific conditions of any settlement agreement remain unclear.

Niccolò Pisilli will remain at Roma and is not a target for Inter, according to reports. The midfielder has received multiple offers in recent weeks, including from Como, but head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has requested that he be kept at the club. Journalist Matteo Moretto stated: "Inter and Roma have never spoken about Pisilli to date." The 2004-born midfielder is considered untouchable by the Giallorossi hierarchy. Pisilli is set to play a central role in Gasperini's Roma project for the upcoming season and will be an important resource for UEFA squad lists, given his academy background. The midfielder will report for pre-season training on July 13 and is preparing for his Champions League debut with Roma. He finished the previous campaign in strong form, scoring once against Fiorentina and recording three assists across Serie A and national team competition. Gasperini's confidence in Pisilli underscores the club's intention to build around youth talent developed through its academy system. The midfielder's status as a product of Roma's academy makes him particularly valuable for European competition regulations, and the club views him as integral to its future plans.

Walter Sabatini, former AS Roma sporting director, has praised the club's return to the Champions League after a seven-year absence. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Sabatini highlighted the quality of Gasperini and his players, saying: "Roma without Champions League cannot exist, I say this with pride. In my six years at Trigoria we always went there. Well done to Gasperini and his players. They worked with unshakeable faith." Sabatini also addressed the recent separation between the club and Claudio Ranieri, along with Massara. He acknowledged the split had been painful, describing it as an episode between two important figures that was not entirely positive. However, he stressed this was not the primary factor in Roma's revival. Sabatini suggested Roma's competitive success came from the team's work ethic and determination rather than any single administrative change. He also noted that Spalletti's side, though strong, made fewer errors than other Serie A contenders, allowing Roma to capitalize on opportunities during the season.

France face Norway on Friday 26 June 2026 in a Group I fixture billed as a duel between two prolific attacking sides. Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland have each scored four goals already and show no sign of slowing down. France manager Didier Deschamps will be without Dembelé, who will rest, but can call on a formidable attacking contingent with Olise, Douè, Mbappé and Cherki all expected to start from the outset. Dayot Saliba faces a back problem and will be preserved, with Lacroix replacing him. Roma midfielder Manu Koné is set to start in place of Rabiot alongside Tchouameni. Norway will field a 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 formation with Haaland and Alexander Sørloth spearheading the attack and Jesper Lindstrøm operating as an attacking wide option. Alongside Brazil–Morocco and England–Croatia, this match ranks among the most anticipated group-stage encounters. France come into the tie under the shadow of manager Deschamps's recent personal loss.

José Mourinho, now Real Madrid's coach, has spoken about his time at Roma and reflected on winning the UEFA Europa Conference League with the club in 2022. Speaking on the podcast 'Beast Mode On', Mourinho described the victory and subsequent celebrations as uniquely special. He said: "When we won the Conference with Roma the city went crazy. Something happens there that other cities cannot do even winning the Champions League. Roma is a city where people are really, really, really in love with the club. A giant club with absolutely incredible passion. We won the first Conference and Europe did not see it as it does now. When we returned to Rome and made the parade between the Colosseum and Circus Maximus we realized what we had truly given to those fans. It was not a matter of José Mourinho. At my beginnings I was focused on myself, my feelings, my victories, thinking about my future. Then I went more towards others, on what I could do for others and the fans. What we did in Rome is the thing that made me realize what we could do for people. It was an incredible thing. I have won the Champions League, I have managed in the Premier League, Inter, Real Madrid. But thinking about others is a beautiful feeling." Mourinho also revisited his deepest regret linked to Roma: the 2014 Europa League final against Seville. He expressed a desire to replay that match, citing concerns about the officiating in that fixture.

Roma's transfer activity is intensifying under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who is working on a list of incoming targets to strengthen the squad for Champions League competition. Mason Greenwood reportedly tops Gasperini's wishlist, with defender Molina also under consideration. The club is actively pursuing reinforcements to enhance their European prospects, though specific details on negotiations and timelines remain unclear.

Roma Club Montecitorio held a celebration marking the club's return to the Champions League. The event brought together supporters and institutional representatives to mark the occasion, reflecting widespread joy across the giallorosso community over Roma's qualification for European football's premier competition. The celebration underscores the significance of the achievement for the club and its fanbase.

AS Roma has qualified for the Champions League, but analysis of coach Gian Piero Gasperini's squad reveals a significant gap in continental competition experience. The article examines squad statistics to assess whether Roma's roster is adequately prepared for elite European football. Securing Champions League qualification represents a major achievement, yet competing at that level demands different tactical demands and experience that many current Roma players may lack. The composition of Gasperini's squad raises questions about readiness for the challenges ahead in Europe's premier club competition.

Younes, father of Roma winger Wesley and a former professional tennis player ranked 14th on the ATP tour, spoke about his son's first season at the Giallorossi. Wesley joined Roma with ambitions to play for a major European club and establish himself immediately with the Moroccan national team—goals he has reportedly achieved. Younes expressed pride in his son's early progress but acknowledged the challenges of professional football, including injuries Wesley has already suffered: a cut above the eye during the Africa Cup of Nations final, a broken nose, and knee problems. He emphasized his concern for his son's physical wellbeing whenever Roma play. Wesely is now focused on the upcoming World Cup, starting with Morocco's match against Brazil. His father highlighted that Roma's third-place Serie A finish has secured Champions League football for next season, which brings Wesley significant satisfaction. Younes described his son as fearless and highly competitive, noting: "He's considered a fighter by everyone, including his coaches. I'd say he's even worse than me. You see it on the pitch: if he makes a mistake, he immediately becomes aggressive because he's disappointed in himself. And that's exactly what makes him so strong." Beyond football, Younes emphasized the importance of proper nutrition and lifestyle in preventing injuries, areas where he actively guides his son.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has made clear his expectations for Roma's upcoming season following the club's return to European football. Gasperini wants to avoid repeating previous mistakes in the transfer market by bringing in players suited to his tactical system. The coach is demanding at least 16 fit outfield players to compete across Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League, recognising that European football demands significant physical and mental resources. Several players have already departed or are expected to leave during the transfer window, including Ferguson, Tsimikas, El Shaarawy, Venturino, and Zaragoza, with Baldanzi and Ziolkowski also on their way out. To maintain squad depth and protect key performers from injury during a gruelling season, Gasperini has identified specific targets: a number 10 or attacking midfielder, a deputy to Gianluca Mancini, a striker, and both right and left-sided defenders. Names under consideration include Vlasic and Greenwood, though negotiations remain in early stages. The arrival of D'Amico as sporting director is pending official confirmation, after which the club is expected to accelerate its recruitment strategy. Gasperini's priority is ensuring the squad composition aligns with his playing philosophy, having identified this as the key lesson from the previous season's recruitment process.

Roma announced Gian Piero Gasperini as head coach on 6 June 2025, marking the start of his first season in charge. The club achieved Champions League qualification, with El Shaarawy among the goal scorers during the campaign. Gasperini's appointment came following the departure of Claudio Ranieri, who had managed the club in the 2024–25 season. The 'condottiero' (commander) has guided Roma towards European football's elite competition in his inaugural year, fulfilling a key objective for the Friedkin Group ownership.

Roma's fixture calendar for the 2024–25 season presents a complex overlap between Serie A and Champions League commitments. The Giallorossi begin their league campaign on 22–23 August against Fiorentina at the Olimpico, with Champions League action starting in September. The first Champions fixture (8–10 September) falls between league matches against Atalanta and Torino, setting the tone for a demanding campaign. Key fixture congestion occurs throughout the season. Roma face Atalanta on 6 September before their Champions League opener, followed by Torino on 13 September. The second Champions round (13–14 October) bookends matches against Como and Genoa, while the third week (20–21 October) sits between Roma–Genoa and Napoli–Roma. Later fixtures include the fifth Champions matchday (24–25 November) sandwiched between Parma and Monza encounters, and a notably tight sixth Champions round (8–9 December) positioned between Bologna away and the Derby della Capitale against Lazio on 13 December. January continues the pattern with two Champions matches: one on 18–19 January after Atalanta away and before Roma–Udinese, and the final group-stage fixture on 27 January following the Udinese clash. The condensed schedule requires careful squad rotation and tactical preparation across both competitions.

Rudi Garcia, Belgium's outgoing national team manager and former Roma head coach, has confirmed that Mile Svilar cannot be called up for the Belgian national team because the goalkeeper has already made a competitive debut for Serbia, closing off any possibility of a switch in international allegiance. Garcia said of Svilar's situation: "No. The matter is closed. Nothing can be done because he debuted with Serbia. I've spoken to him about it. In any case, I have no problems in goal: behind Courtois, who is still the best in the world, a group of young players is developing who give me great assurances." Svilar's performances have been central to Roma's return to the Champions League this season. When asked about the club's achievement, Garcia reflected that while it was right to celebrate, the European elite competition should be Roma's standard destination. He said: "I believe it was right to celebrate, anyway. That feeling had been missing for a long time. The right place for Roma must always be the Champions League." Under Garcia's own tenure as Roma manager, Champions League qualification was a routine expectation rather than a milestone.

Roma are planning a series of elite pre-season fixtures to prepare for their return to the Champions League after seven years away. The club is targeting matches against Brighton and Barcelona during summer preparation under new head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, with the goal of building an international mentality from the outset and raising the competitive standard of the pre-campaign. The return to European football's premier competition is shaping Roma's entire summer strategy. By arranging friendlies against some of Europe's biggest clubs, the Giallorossi aim to hit the ground running when the new season begins and establish winning habits early. The club believes competing against modern, high-intensity football during pre-season will better prepare them for the demands ahead. While no deals have been finalised, Roma's priority is clear: construct a robust competitive framework before the official campaign starts. During their training camp in Wales, Roma are actively working to arrange the Brighton fixture, according to reports. Barcelona remain under consideration as another prestigious opponent. An official friendly against Borussia Dortmund is already confirmed for Ferragosto (15 August).

Vincent Candela shared a photograph of Roma's lineup from the 2001–02 Champions League season on social media, evoking nostalgia among supporters as the club celebrated its recent qualification to the Champions League for the first time in 7 years. The qualification was confirmed just over a week before 1 June 2026. Candela's post included the message: "You can breathe the air of Champions here." The 2001–02 campaign was a landmark period for Roma, when the club wore the Serie A title on their chest and featured in historic European encounters. Among the memorable results was a 3–0 victory at the Olimpico against Barcelona, with goals from Emerson, Montella, and Tommasi. Candela's throwback triggered an outpouring of nostalgia and emotion in the comments section as supporters reflected on those years of success. The post underscores Roma's excitement at returning to elite European competition after an absence of seven seasons.

Lorenzo Dattilo, the Roma U16 captain, scored in Italy's 3–3 draw against Denmark on 1 June in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship, becoming the first player born in 2010 to score in the tournament's final phase. The right-back netted with a header to level the match at 2–1 as Italy advanced to the semi-finals following earlier victories over France (1–0) and Montenegro (3–0). Dattilo, who has made 27 appearances and scored 6 goals for Roma's U16 side this season, is one of only two 2010-born players in the Italy squad—the rest are predominantly from the 2009 cohort. The 14-year-old's goal represents a significant milestone for the young defender, who wears the captain's armband at club level. Playing up an age group at the European Championship, Dattilo has impressed among a squad largely composed of older teammates. His contribution helped Italy's Under-17 side secure progression from the group stage. Italy will face Spain in the semi-finals, while France play Belgium in the opposite bracket.

Mason Greenwood has become Roma's summer transfer priority as head coach Gian Piero Gasperini seeks to strengthen the attacking depth following the club's Champions League qualification. The Marseille forward, valued at €50 million, fits Gasperini's demand to raise the squad's offensive power. Marseille faces financial pressure to sell, positioning Roma as an interested observer in the coming weeks as the transfer window approaches. Greenwood left Manchester United's academy in 2023 and joined Getafe before moving to Marseille for €25 million a year later. The 2001-born right winger has demonstrated consistent development in France, compiling 45 appearances last season with significant goal and assist contributions. A modern attacker capable of playing across multiple forward roles—winger, second striker, or centre-forward—Greenwood is naturally two-footed, making him difficult for defenders to read. His ability to attack space, link play with teammates, and create numerical superiority suits Gasperini's vertical, aggressive style of football, offering both depth and goal threat in the final third.

Odoacre Chierico, a member of Roma's 1983 Serie A championship side, has backed the club to pursue the top prize next season under head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Speaking to Il Tempo on 31 May, the Roma legend praised several players instrumental in securing Champions League qualification, singling out Paulo Dybala as essential to the club's future. "I am in perfect agreement with Gasperini when he says that Dybala must stay," Chierico said. "He has superior quality to the others and can always make a difference. Pellegrini for me is a tremendous player—I rank him on the same level as Dybala." Chierico also highlighted Donyell Malen's impact during the run-in and offered a pointed critique of former manager José Mourinho regarding goalkeeper Mile Svilar. "I want to pay compliments to Svilar," he said. "I don't understand why Mourinho didn't play him—or perhaps I do, given that the goalkeeper was Rui Patrício." He noted that Dybala, Gianluca Mancini, and Malen had been decisive in the closing stages of the season. Looking ahead, Chierico acknowledged the difficulty of the challenge but expressed confidence. "Now the hard part arrives," he explained. "After a year of settling in, I believe we must step up and go after first place. It will be important to make an excellent showing in the Champions League, a very difficult competition."

Paulo Dybala used his time on holiday in Argentina to watch the Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal on 30 May, eager to experience the competition again after Roma qualified for European football this season. The striker's enthusiasm for the continent's premier club competition reflects his determination to return to its biggest stage, having played only one final in his career—a 2017 loss with Juventus against Real Madrid. Dybala is close to signing a contract renewal with Roma and played a key role in the team's late-season performances that secured their place in Europe. Head coach Gasperini and the club hierarchy are preparing to build a competitive squad capable of matching Europe's elite and avoiding relegation after a seven-year absence from the Champions League. The Argentine forward dreams of one day gracing that stage in a Roma shirt, and the club's ambition to construct a roster that can compete across all fronts suggests serious intent to challenge for continental success in the coming years.

Roma will build their attacking strategy around Donyell Malen as Gian Piero Gasperini seeks to strengthen the forward line following qualification for the Champions League. Malen is identified as the squad's primary offensive asset and the foundation of the team's European ambitions. His official announcement carried the message: "Bobby stays at Roma." Gasperini has signalled his intention to elevate the attack to compete with Europe's elite sides, a hallmark of his tactical philosophy. Paulo Dybala will feature but physical issues will prevent him from guaranteeing consistency across three competitions. Matías Soulé remains uncertain, hampered by pubic problems and a possible departure, while Robinio Vaz could go on loan—still too young to be a reliable alternative. The future of Artem Dovbyk is the key uncertainty. The Ukrainian was among the season's disappointments; injury played a role, but missed penalties and inconsistent performances meant he failed to fully embed himself in Gasperini's plans. The coach may be prepared to sacrifice him to bring in a more suitable striker. Roma, however, will not sell at a cut price. Approximately €35 million was invested to sign Dovbyk from Girona two years ago, and a similar fee will be required for any sale. A loan move remains a peripheral option. If he departs, Gianluca Scamacca has emerged as a potential replacement, though the transfer window is long and surprises cannot be ruled out.

Former Roma president Rosella Sensi has hailed Gian Piero Gasperini's work after the club secured third place and a return to the Champions League following a seven-year absence. Speaking on Radio Radio, Sensi described Gasperini's performance as extraordinary and praised him for becoming a true romanista in addition to being a top-class coach. Roma's qualification came despite external scepticism surrounding the team, though Sensi expressed confidence the club could achieve the feat. She attributed the success to a unified squad, the quality of the head coach, and the presence of a committed board. "Certain results arrive above all when there is a united group, a great coach and a present society," Sensi explained. "The conditions were all there, then obviously matches must be played and won on the pitch." Sensi reflected on Roma's last Champions League campaign, recalling the club's 3–0 comeback victory over Barcelona, though she was not at the stadium for that match. "I cannot wait to experience those nights again," she said. "It really has been too long that Roma has been missing from the Champions League."

Riccardo Calafiori, the former Roma defender now at Arsenal, has indicated he would like to return to his boyhood club. Speaking to la Repubblica, the 22-year-old reflected on his time in Rome and his future, having already won the Premier League with the Gunners and preparing for the Champions League final against PSG on 30 May at 18:00. Calafiori acknowledged unfinished business at Roma, where he made limited appearances early in his career. "I was young and played very few matches," he said. "I would like to return to my beloved club." The defender also expressed excitement at the prospect of facing Roma in European competition next season, having previously done so with Bologna. He has maintained contact with current Roma players Gianluca Mancini, Bryan Cristante and Lorenzo Pellegrini, who recently messaged him for his birthday. On Roma's new direction under Gian Piero Gasperini, Calafiori expressed optimism. "I'm happy that Roma is placing faith in Gasperini," he said. "I don't know if he'll become the new Arsenal, but the fact that he's back in the Champions League, where he deserves to be, can only do good for the club and the city. I'll always support them."