AS Roma Press Conferences

Gianluca Mancini spoke on the eve of Italy's match against Turkey, expressing his enjoyment of the recent period with the national team. The Roma defender said: "A supporter must have faith and we must have faith in ourselves," while discussing Italy's recent revival under Luciano Montella. Mancini is looking to end his international assignment with a strong performance.

Cesc Fabregas has publicly expressed respect for Gian Piero Gasperini ahead of Como's fixture against Roma in one week's time, moving to defuse tension between the two coaches after a heated encounter last season. The Spanish manager addressed the pair's previous conflict at the Festival dello Sport in Trento, where he stated: "I have great respect for him." Last season, Gasperini refused to shake Fabregas's hand after Como's 2–1 home victory, walking directly toward the tunnel in protest at Wesley's expulsion, which the Roma coach deemed dubious. Fabregas had called the gesture "unsporting" at the time, fueling friction between them. The article comes as Roma prepare for their next league match against Como. Gasperini, who took charge of Roma in 2025, is one of the most experienced and strongest coaches in Serie A, presenting a contrasting tactical approach to Fabregas's style. The incident has left some residual effects on their relationship, though Fabregas's recent comments suggest a willingness to move past it. Fabregas acknowledged his own mistakes and emotional nature, saying: "I myself make errors many times; I am still young and often still emotional." He then directed his comments at Gasperini specifically: "I hope that a more experienced coach, if I make a mistake, will tell me. For example Gasperini. I like to listen to people who know more than I do." He also noted that relationships cannot be identical with all colleagues: "You cannot keep the same friendship or relationship with everyone; we are all different."

Gian Piero Gasperini has reflected on his time at Roma following an appearance at the Trento Sports Festival organised by La Gazzetta dello Sport. Speaking after a series of questions about the last season, the head coach identified the final league match against Verona as the occasion that moved him most since arriving at the club. "I'd say the last league match against Verona," he explained, "because there was a sense of having reached an important milestone and with great satisfaction from the fans." When asked about his most difficult match, Gasperini pointed to Roma's trip to Inter Milan last season as the moment when the team's form dipped most sharply, though he suggested the most recent fixture represented a different level of challenge altogether. His greatest surprise, however, has come from Donyell Malen's goal tally. "Malen surprised me, certainly the number of goals he scored was something no one could have imagined," Gasperini said. "For the rest there have been lots of very positive surprises." The coach also fielded a lighthearted question about a player he would have liked to manage but never had the opportunity. When asked about Lionel Messi, Gasperini laughed rather than answer directly.

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at the Festival dello Sport on 2 October about the foundations of his Roma project, the character of his squad, and the club's ambitions this season. The coach outlined how he has built the team around a clear playing philosophy focused on taking the ball rather than waiting for opponents, and how he has shaped the personalities of senior players to match that vision. Gasperini praised his defensive line as "one of the best in Europe," highlighting Mario Hermoso and Gianluca Mancini as examples of players with both technical quality and the fighting spirit he demands. He also emphasised Bryan Cristante's importance as a player who sacrifices individual prominence for the collective good. On Paulo Dybala, Gasperini said the Argentine has enjoyed an exceptional start to the season with no injuries disrupting his availability: "He still has the enthusiasm to play football, you can see he is well. There have been years of physical fragility, with injuries that held him back. I always thought it was a training matter... He has remarkable fibre, he started training properly and this start to the season is extraordinary. He doesn't miss a minute." Gasperini suggested Dybala's reluctance to shoot from distance stems from past injuries but believes he will regain that ability soon. On young players, Gasperini explained his approach to developing Emanuele Lulli and Niccolò Pisilli. He brought Lulli into the first team after observing his characteristics in pre-season training. Regarding Gianluca Romano, whom Roma have sold, Gasperini said: "Another young player grown in Roma, very interesting. I was sorry he was excessively criticised after his first Nazionale match, but it is adults who must be more cautious in their judgements. Romano's sale is a capital gain; often societies are forced to sell young players, this is not a good thing. In football the finest jewels must be allowed to grow." On Donyell Malen's arrival and early goal-scoring form, Gasperini explained: "At times planets align and things happen you think are unrealisable. We needed a striker because Dovbyk was injured. There were several names, then I came to know of this opportunity. He was leaving Aston Villa for a tactical reason, he wanted to play as a centre-forward and I have always thought he must play in the penalty area. This his ability to make three very quick touches is his weapon." When asked if Malen could match the 36-goal tallies of Gonzalo Higuaín and Ciro Immobile, Gasperini replied: "I hope so, I've told him that to motivate him... If he reaches 30 goals I would be happy anyway." On Roma's prospects and the atmosphere at the club, Gasperini said: "It was a very positive surprise; outside Rome it is described as an environment that swings back and forth. I found passion and enthusiasm, beautiful but also mature attachment. At this moment the fans are happy and recognise themselves in this squad, then clearly the maximum result would be extraordinary. But the environment is beautiful, there is a desire to play well to enthuse them." He also commented on the new stadium project, saying he had seen the rendering and it was "fantastic" but that the Olimpico in Roma's colours is already "beautiful, though the stands are far from the pitch." Regarding Roma's centenary in 2027, when the first stone of the new stadium will be laid, Gasperini reflected: "A hundred years is a milestone of experience and for me also of emotion. Think of how many people have carried this society forward, how many fans have dedicated their lives to Roma. You must carry all the history without renouncing it, to have an even better future. Roma's second centenary will be even more beautiful than the first."

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at the Festival dello Sport in Trento, where he and CEO John Galantic selected Roma's all-time best XI. Beyond the exercise, Gasperini revealed a coach fully committed to the Roma project. He praised Bryan Cristante as a "central hub" and spoke of removing Paulo Dybala's fear of shooting: "If you give me these players, then I will make them play." Addressing the club's future, Gasperini said: "I've seen renderings of the new stadium at Pietralata. Rome and Italy need things like this. I hope to be there when it is inaugurated." On the pitch, Gasperini dismissed talk of the Scudetto but stressed the importance of his relationship with the Roma support. "I had a different idea of Roma fans—I thought it was blind love. Instead I found a mature public that joins extraordinary attachment with the ability to recognise other people's work. A nice chemistry has formed, there's good energy," he said. When asked about Inter, Gasperini acknowledged their standing but redirected focus: "They are recognised by everyone as the strongest in Italy, but it's right to look at our own path." Roma's next opponent is Como, a match Gasperini noted will be a test: "We'll face them as rivals in Primavera too. They are clever, have ideas and resources." Galantic confirmed Roma's commitment to the Under-23 project. "We need it," the CEO said. "We want to increase the number of young players from the academy reaching the first team. The new stadium will place Roma among Europe's top clubs."

CEO John Galanic laid out Roma's future strategy at the Trento Sports Festival, emphasizing youth development and a shift away from reliance on player sales. Galanic said: "You cannot live off transfer profits; you need to grow more talent like Lulli and Pisilli. We must renovate the youth sector and we're already doing that with D'Amico and Margiotta, then we need the Under 23. We need it. Every year we want to insert academy-developed players to grow and have a sustainable model." The club is moving away from sales driven by "budget needs," as head coach Gian Piero Gasperini explained regarding recent departures. Gasperini has won over the Roma fanbase and city in just over a year, with supporters calling for a Champions League triumph. When asked if winning would make him emperor, Gasperini replied: "Let's skip that; they all came to a bad end (laughs)." He acknowledged Roma's progress relative to stronger rivals: "I look at our journey. Inter is the best in Italy, but if you only chase the strongest, you risk losing yourself in frustration. We've drawn closer and that's already rewarding." He also hinted at long-term commitment: "Will I be in the new stadium? I hope so." On the stadium project, Galanic outlined an ambitious timeline: "It will change everything and raise revenue. Between March and April we expect the first stone to be laid. The Friedkins speak little, but in this case silence is golden." The ownership, which acquired the club in 2020, has made few public statements, but Galanic's remarks underscored their focus on sustainable growth through academy investment alongside the planned new ground.

Bryan Cristante will miss Roma's Serie A trip to Como after the international break due to a knee injury, with his availability for the subsequent Champions League match against Real Madrid remaining in doubt. The midfielder's absence comes at a crucial point in the season, with Real Madrid's visit to the Stadio Olimpico among the most anticipated fixtures of Roma's opening campaign. Gian Piero Gasperini and Roma CEO John Galantic were both present at the Festival dello Sport in Trento, where Galantic addressed the departure of a young academy prospect. Gasperini explained the reasoning behind the sale: "The fact that Romano was sold are financial requirements and balance-sheet needs. We have seen great clubs that have had to sell important young players to remedy balance-sheet situations. This is not a good thing for our football; the best jewels must have time and opportunity to grow." Galantic separately praised Matías Soulé, describing him as another product of Roma's youth academy. "It is a very interesting boy," he said. "It was unfortunate what happened last week: it seemed we had found the player who would fix the national team and then he was excessively criticised. Perhaps adults need to stay calm in their judgement. When I saw Soulé's goal I lost my head and understood nothing anymore… that is the beauty of sport." Galantic made his comments while attending the festival in Trento alongside Gasperini.

Roma CEO John Galantic spoke at the Festival dello Sport in Trento alongside head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, discussing his first months at the club, the Friedkin ownership, and the strategy to build a sustainable and competitive organisation. Galantic described his arrival as a baptism by fire, joining during the summer transfer window and a pre-season training camp in Wales. He praised the ownership's ambition and noted Roma's qualification to the Champions League and strong league start under Gasperini. "We don't wait for others: we go and get the ball," he said of the club's approach. "I was also fortunate to arrive at a very positive moment, after the qualification secured by Gian Piero and the squad, and now with this fine start to the campaign." On working with Friedkin, Galantic highlighted their enthusiasm but reserved public profile. "Dan Friedkin built an empire with several sectors. I was surprised to see that the more time passes, you don't find interviews on other subjects either," he explained. "They are private and asked me to speak. For the matches they are always involved, and you don't make these investments if you don't believe." Galantic outlined three pillars for long-term growth: developing young talent in-house like Emanuele Lulli and Niccolò Pisilli, strengthening the Under 23 and link between that level and the first squad, and synergies with Cannes. "Every year we want to put new players developed in-house to grow and have a sustainable model. In four years the stadium will change everything—it raises revenue and allows us a very important sporting and economic jump," he said. On January targets, he remained non-committal: "We are always alert, we see if there are opportunities. We want to grow this squad."

Gian Piero Gasperini addressed the Gazzetta dello Sport's Festival dello Sport in Trento, reflecting on his arrival at Roma and the squad's early development under his management. He described his first message to the players as the creation of something new from the ground up. "It's like when you do a new construction: you must lay new and different foundations straight away," Gasperini said. "We never spoke about my previous years. We had to build something new immediately, founded on concepts different from what many players were used to, but also what they expected from me and asked of me. Football can be played in many ways, but the first concept was to win the ball back from the opponent and not wait for him to make a mistake." Gasperini singled out the defensive group for particular praise, naming Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso as standout performers but extending credit to goalkeeper Mile Svilar and Evan N'Dicka, who he said had been among Europe's best defenders for months. On Mancini, he revealed his approach: "I knew him when I was his opponent and I would think 'why is he so disagreeable?' and I immediately tried to tell him 'look, this penalises you, for many years you didn't go to the national team because of these attitudes.' That was the first thing I worked on." Mancini had "a fantastic season" and has since returned to the Italy squad. Hermoso, despite a difficult previous year, brought experience from Atlético Madrid's defensive discipline alongside Spanish quality and tactical knowledge. On Bryan Cristante, Gasperini explained his confidence in the midfielder despite early doubts. "I knew him as a young player. Very often in players you don't look at the 'control room'—personality, the way of playing for the squad and putting teammates' needs first—and that's something I've always considered," he said. "When I was at Atalanta we sold Gagliardini to Inter and he couldn't stand out. Sartori gave me his name, I met the young Beppe Riso and got to know this guy. He couldn't have lost his technical qualities. I spoke to him a lot and he convinced me. I was facing the right person, with motivation, and I hoped that footballistically he would come out and he did." Cristante has suffered a knee injury but should recover quickly. Gasperini acknowledged that "playing many matches, if you're out two weeks you risk missing five matches. He'll miss the first matches but will recover soon." On Paulo Dybala's remarkable early form this season, Gasperini said: "He's started the way it hasn't happened to him for years. I knew him in Palermo when he was very young. As with all great players, he still has enthusiasm and strength. When he's on the pitch he's well and wants to play." Regarding Romano, a young academy graduate, Gasperini was critical of circumstances beyond football: "The fact that Romano was sold is down to needs for capital gains and balance-sheet requirements. This is not something good for our football—you need the chance to let your best gems grow, but when there are these needs they become the first to be cut." Gasperini also discussed Donyell Malen's unexpected summer arrival. "Sometimes the planets align and things happen that you weren't thinking about days before," he said. "Malen was a known player; in summer we'd seen his characteristics, which were already known. Then things happen during the market where you think you've planned everything and then maybe something unforeseen comes up—sometimes bad, in this case good. In a moment when we were looking for a striker, this opportunity with Malen came up, exiting Aston Villa for a tactical reason. He wanted to play centre-forward and I've always seen centre-forward characteristics in him."

Roma CEO John Galantic spoke at the Festival dello Sport in Trento alongside head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, reflecting on his arrival at the club and the ownership's approach to the project. Galantic described his start at Roma as a "baptism of fire", beginning on the first day of the pre-season camp in Wales. "We don't wait for others and we go and take the ball," he said of the club's recruitment strategy during the summer window. He praised the Friedkin family's commitment, noting their reserve in public matters. "They are always present for the matches and you don't make these investments if you don't believe in it," Galantic said. "For a Roman it is difficult to understand the idea of staying silent, but Dan Friedkin created an empire with several sectors. I was surprised to see that the more time passes and you don't find interviews even on other subjects... that's how it is. They are reserved and asked me to speak." Galantic highlighted Francesco Totti as his favourite poet as a Roma fan, recalling "the volley pass with his back to goal that only he can see—it's inexplicable." He also cited the derby moment when Cafu performed a triple nutmeg on Nedved, and Matías Soulé's goal against Atalanta. On that Soulé strike, Galantic said: "When I saw the goal of Soulé I lost my head and didn't understand anything anymore... that's the beauty of sport." Before the Roma-Atalanta match, he explained, he had been warned that he could no longer behave as a fan. He came to Roma from a luxury sector CEO role in Milan after years of discussions with the Friedkins, describing the move as driven by passion and conviction rather than career advancement. "This is not a career choice—I've already made my career. This is passion, but passion alone is not enough. There had to be conviction from ownership and the resources to do something great," he said.

Roma CEO John Galantic spoke at the Trento Sports Festival, where he is appearing alongside head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Galantic described his appointment as a baptism of fire in the summer transfer window and praised the club's recruitment, noting Roma's return to the Champions League after finishing third in Serie A last season. Galantic explained the Friedkin Group's approach to running the club, saying they are reserved and chose not to give interviews themselves. "They have surprised me for their enthusiasm in this project," he said. "For a Roman it is difficult to understand the idea of staying silent but Dan Friedkin created an empire with several sectors. The more time passes and you don't find interviews even on other subjects... that's how it is. They are reserved and asked me to speak. For the matches they are always inside and you don't make these investments if you don't believe in it." Galantic, who previously worked as CEO of a luxury company in Milan, called his move to Roma a decision driven by passion rather than career advancement, explaining he needed conviction from the ownership that the club could win something significant. On long-term planning, Galantic outlined Roma's strategy for sustainability: "You cannot live on capital gains; you must grow more talent in-house like Lulli and Pisilli. We have three projects: renovating the youth academy, we have people like D'Amico and Margiotta. Then another growth stage between the Primavera and the first team. The Under-23 is what we need. Then synergies with the team in Cannes, which is in the richest talent market. Every year we want to put new players developed in-house to grow and have a sustainable model." He added that a new stadium will transform the club's economics within four years, enabling a significant sporting and economic leap. On potential January transfers, he said the club remains vigilant and will pursue opportunities if they arise to grow the squad. Galantic also expressed confidence in Roma's centenary celebration as a moment to honour the club's legends while building toward the future during a phase of strong growth.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini addressed Roma's early-season progress at the Festival dello Sport in Trento on 2 October, praising Paulo Dybala's physical transformation while confirming Bryan Cristante will miss matches after the international break due to a knee problem. Gasperini outlined his tactical philosophy from his first training session, saying his immediate aim was to build something new at Roma. "My only objective was to create something new. It's like when you do a new construction: you must immediately lay new and different foundations," he said. He emphasised his defensive principles: "The first concept was to recover the ball from the opponent and not wait for him to make a mistake. That's where the rest started from." On his defence, Gasperini highlighted Mario Hermoso, Gianluca Mancini, Mile Svilar and Evan N'Dicka as key figures, noting that Hermoso brought experience from his time at Atlético Madrid alongside Spanish technical quality, while Mancini had undergone a personal shift. "I told him straight away: 'Look, this attitude is penalising you — for many years you didn't go to the national team because of these behaviours.' It's the first thing I worked on. He had a fantastic season, people have started talking about Mancini as a player again, and he's back in the national team." On Cristante, Gasperini revealed his long knowledge of the midfielder: "I knew him as a young player. Very often in players you don't look at the 'control room' — personality, the way of playing for the squad and putting teammates' needs first. It's something I've always considered." Regarding his current injury: "He had a knee problem, but playing many matches, if you're out for two weeks you risk missing 5 matches. He'll miss the first matches but will recover quickly." Dybala has drawn particular praise for his physical robustness this season. Gasperini explained: "He started the way it hasn't happened for years. He's had years of physical fragility — I thought it was a training matter. Many told me he has silk muscles, that I had to preserve him, and he'd continuously get injured. He has considerable fibre; some injuries were random. This season's start is extraordinary physically. He doesn't miss a single training session or match minute. It's proof of what I've always believed: through training you can improve endurance and performance." On young academy products Niccolò Pisilli and Emanuele Lulli, Gasperini stressed his faith in developing youth: "I grew up in the youth sector and started coaching under-10s, so I've always maintained that approach. Training in youth football helps you see the boy not as something definitive but as something you imagine could evolve." Gasperini also addressed the departure of another academy prospect, Romano, citing financial pressure: "The fact that Romano was sold is represented by profit and balance-sheet needs. This isn't good for our football — the best jewels must have the chance to grow, but if there are needs they become the first to be cut."

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at the Trento Sports Festival on 2 October, discussing the foundations he has laid at Roma since his appointment and his vision for the season ahead. The Roma head coach outlined his tactical philosophy and explained how he has worked with the squad over the early weeks of the 2026–27 campaign. "My objective was to create something new, to lay new foundations straight away," Gasperini said. "We never spoke about my past; we had to create something new, based on new concepts of play that were different from what several players were used to. There are two ways in football: waiting for your opponent to lose the ball, or the other way—going to take it. This was the first concept, not to wait for the opponent, and everything else came from that." Gasperini praised his defensive options, singling out Mario Hermoso and Gianluca Mancini as key figures. He described the defence as his "gladiators," adding that Mile Svilar and Evan N'Dicka have been among Europe's best in recent months. On Mancini specifically, Gasperini revealed he had worked to improve the centre-back's attitude: "I knew Mancini, but when I was his opponent I'd think to myself, 'Why is he so unpleasant?' and I tried to tell him straight away, 'Look, this is hurting you—for many years you haven't gone to the national team because of these attitudes.' It was the first thing I worked on. He had a fantastic season, people started talking about Mancini as a player again, and he's returned to the national team." Gasperini offered extensive insight into Paulo Dybala's resurgence, attributing the Argentine forward's improved fitness to his training methods. "He's started as hasn't happened to him for years. I knew him at Palermo when he was very young; many years have passed but he, like all great players, still has enthusiasm and strength," Gasperini explained. "He had years of physical fragility. I thought it was a training issue. Many told me he had silk muscles, that I had to preserve him, and he kept getting injured. He has remarkable fibre; some injuries were random. This season's start is extraordinary physically. He doesn't miss a minute of training or matches. This shows what I've always believed: through training you can improve durability and performances." Regarding Dybala's reluctance to shoot from distance, Gasperini noted: "That's a legacy we'll get over soon. He got injured shooting with Milan and Torino last year and it stayed with him. Now he's overcoming it; he stopped sprinting and to see him jumping past opponents again... we'll return to shooting like before." When asked if he has coached better poets than Dybala, Gasperini responded: "I have a long career and have trained many strong players. Dybala is among the top, if not the absolute top. Ilicic and the Papu too—they're poets because they touch different strings from everyone else." Gasperini discussed young academy prospects Emanuele Lulli and Niccolò Pisilli, explaining his approach to youth development: "I grew up in the youth sector, coaching 11-year-olds through to the Primavera. I've maintained that approach and it's taught me to see the boy not as something to evaluate but as something to imagine how he might become. Pisilli already had value and experience; Lulli wasn't even always a starter in the Primavera. I have the habit of bringing a few boys from Primavera into training. I saw important characteristics in him and this year I brought him to the retreat. He played against Borussia Dortmund, a demanding match. These are the boys who tell you by how they play if they're ready. The answers come from watching them on the pitch." On Bryan Cristante, Gasperini confirmed a knee injury: "He had a knee problem but when you play many matches, if you're out two weeks you risk missing five matches. He'll miss the first games but will recover quickly." Donyell Malen's arrival was described as unexpected: "Sometimes the planets align and things happen you don't think about. He was a known player; we'd had a friendly where I saw his characteristics. These things happen during the market where you sometimes don't plan anything. We were looking for a striker because Dovbyk and Ferguson were injured. There were several names and suddenly I learned of this opportunity. He was leaving Aston Villa for tactical reasons; he wanted to be a centre-forward and I've always seen those characteristics in him. He has three fundamental touches—the closer he is to the box, the more deadly he is."

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at the ninth edition of Il Festival dello Sport in Trento alongside new Roma CEO Galantic, discussing the club's strong start to the season and his first months in charge. The coach explained his vision from day one: "My objective was to create something new, to lay new foundations immediately. We never spoke of my past—we had to build something fresh, founded on new concepts of play that were different from what several players were used to. There are two ways in football: waiting for the opponent to lose the ball or going to take it. This was the first concept, not waiting for the opponent, and everything else stemmed from that." Gasperini praised his defence, singling out Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso as standouts. On Mancini specifically: "I knew him, but when I was his opponent I'd think 'why is he so disagreeable?' and I told him straight away 'this penalises you—for years you haven't gone to the national team because of these attitudes.' It was the first thing I worked on. He had a fantastic season, people started talking about Mancini as a player again, and he returned to the Nazionale." Hermoso, he said, brought defensive grit combined with Spanish quality and important experience from his time at Atlético Madrid. Gasperini also highlighted Mile Svilar and Evan N'Dicka, noting they had been Europe's best defence for months. On Paulo Dybala's remarkable form, Gasperini revealed his belief that the Argentine's previous injury problems stemmed from training rather than fragility. "Lots of people told me he has silk muscles, that I had to preserve him, and he kept getting injured. He has remarkable fibre—some injuries were just bad luck. This season's start is extraordinary physically. He doesn't miss a minute of training or a match. It's proof of what I always believed: through training you can improve resilience and performance." When asked if Dybala's recent shot from distance showed progress, Gasperini explained: "That's a legacy we're overcoming soon. Last year he hurt himself shooting against Milan and Torino and it stayed with him. Now he's getting past it—he wasn't sprinting anymore and to see him jumping over opponents again is great. Soon we'll be back to shooting like before." He also offered high praise for Dybala's overall quality: "My career is long and I've coached many strong players. Dybala is among the top, if not the absolute top. Ilicic and the Papu too—they're poets because they touch chords different from everyone else." Gasperini discussed some younger squad members who have impressed him. On Emanuele Lulli, who was not always a starter in the Primavera: "I have the habit of bringing some young players from the Primavera into training. I saw important characteristics in him and this year brought him to the retreat. He played against Borussia Dortmund, a challenging match. The young players tell you through how they play if they're ready. The answers come from watching them on the pitch." He also defended recent criticism of another academy product: "It's another young man who grew through our youth system. He's very interesting. I was sorry about what happened last week—it seemed we'd found the player to fix the Nazionale and then he was excessively criticised. Perhaps it's the adults who need to stay calm in their judgment." On Santiago Castro's arrival, Gasperini said: "Sometimes the planets align and things happen you don't plan. He was a known player—we had a friendly where I saw his characteristics. The market is a place where sometimes you don't plan anything. We were looking for a striker because Dovbyk and Ferguson were injured. There were several names and suddenly I learned of this opportunity. He was leaving Aston Villa for tactical reasons; he wanted to be a centre-forward and I've always seen those qualities in him. He has three fundamental touches, and the closer he is to the box the more lethal he is." When pressed on whether Castro could surpass Gonzalo Higuaín's records, Gasperini said: "I said that to motivate him—I'm joking a bit. Let's say if he reaches 30 I'm happy." Gasperini reflected on his decision to leave Atalanta for Roma, calling it a major turning point in his career—comparable only to his shift from playing to management and his move to Crotone in Serie C. "I arrived with the conviction it was something owed rather than wanted, and that it was time to cross the Rubicon. You do it with lots of doubts, but you know when you make that choice you don't go back, and it's gone well." On the season's challenges ahead, he rejected the idea of being solely focused on rivals: "I always look at our path. Depending on the moment, Hannibal could be someone else. Before it was Juventus, now perhaps Inter, who is the best team in Italy. If you always chase the strongest you can lose yourself. The objective is to look at ourselves and improve."

Leonardo Balerdi took the field for Argentina in a friendly against Bolivia overnight, with the defender and teammate Matías Soulé remaining unused. Castro stayed on the bench. On social media, Balerdi wrote: "Farne parte con la maglietta migliore" (to be part of it with the best shirt), prompting a response from Castro—a simple "Francooo" with a fire emoji—a clear reference to a comparison Gasperini made a couple of weeks ago between the centre-back and Franco Baresi, the Milan and Italy legend, in his post-match comments after Torino versus Roma. Gasperini's remark drew attention across the dressing room, and the coach subsequently clarified his approach, explaining that he regularly compares his players with sporting icons to push them to perform at their highest level. Balerdi himself took a more measured stance when asked about the Baresi comparison, stating: "They misunderstood; I remain humble." The exchange illustrates how Gasperini's influence extends even when Roma's players are on international duty.

Manu Koné addressed speculation over his Roma future while on international duty with France ahead of a Nations League match against Italy on Friday 2 October at 20:45. Speaking in a press conference before training, the midfielder acknowledged transfer interest during the summer window but confirmed his commitment to the club. "For me some things happened, but I am at Roma, I am focused," Koné said. "What happened has happened. I give 100% for this club, I will give everything to meet expectations, and that is all." Koné joined Roma on loan with an obligation to buy from Borussia Mönchengladbach in August 2024. The midfielder has become a regular fixture in Gian Piero Gasperini's squad this season and reflected on his development since arriving in Italian football at age 23. "Coming to Italy brought maturity to my playing style," he explained. "I became more focused. Tactically I did not have the abilities I have now. I also improved energy management, which made me the player I am today. I was going through a difficult period at Borussia Mönchengladbach (where I played from 2021 to 2024) and Roma sought me out; I am very grateful to them." Koné also discussed his recent performance at defensive midfield for France against Turkey. "A midfielder must be able to play anywhere," he said. "I have already played in that position, several times at my previous clubs, but also at Roma. It is not something that changes much for me; I enjoyed it. It was a fairly complicated match, with different demands, especially in terms of duels, so I think I tried to be up to the situation. I manage my matches based on the squad and I was asked to contribute to a certain style of play. I try to give my best and I am very proud of myself." Teammates Gianluca Mancini and Bryan Cristante, both Roma players, have told him that Friday's match against Italy will be important, and Koné expects France to focus on their own performance rather than their opponents' current difficulties.

Manu Koné addressed his future at Roma in a press conference on 30 September, the day before France's international fixture against Italy on 2 October at 20:45. The midfielder acknowledged that "things have happened" but reaffirmed his commitment to the club: "I am a Roma player and I will give 100% for this club. We are focused and we have objectives." Koné's remarks come after reported summer interest from other clubs. He emphasized his willingness to adapt to tactical demands, noting that he has already played in the regista role at Roma. "A midfielder must be able to play anywhere," he said. "I have already played there at Roma—it is not something that changes much. I try to respond to the coach's demands." Speaking about France's upcoming match, Koné acknowledged the rivalry: "There is a lot of banter, being a Roma player. They want to win, it is an important match; they are in rebuilding and going through a complicated moment. We have training this afternoon but we will depart with the same dynamic to work on the two upcoming matches. We will do what the coach asks of us." He also praised France's new coaching staff, saying: "It is nice to be coached by Zinedine Zidane, a world legend. He manages us in a human way, very sincere, close to the players. He goes by feel, takes us aside. He transmits confidence to all of us; each of us is natural. He told me to play freely. What struck me most is his technical repertoire—seeing that he still has that technique, I tell myself that in his time he must have been incredible."

Italy manager Roberto Mancini brushed off criticism after the national team's loss to Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico, ahead of tomorrow's Nations League fixture against Turkey in Turkey. Mancini said in a press conference: "The criticism does not touch me, there is too much agitation, let's stay calm. With Turkey I will make changes to evaluate other players. Anyway, no one would have played four matches in close succession. There are cycles, and unfortunately Italy is going through one like this, without a generation with Totti, Del Piero and people like that. We only need time to work and put together a competitive squad. Nothing else." Gianluca Mancini, the Roma defender, was left out of the squad for the match, while Daniele Ghilardi of Roma is included and hopes to find playing time during the game.

Gian Piero Gasperini addressed Roma's commercial partners at Relais Appia Antica, speaking about the club's demanding nature and the squad's recent performance. He said: "I knew that Roma footballically is very demanding and difficult. But beyond results it matters to show you are working seriously, and that is always appreciated." Gasperini called the recent match against Inter "a spectacle" and thanked the business leaders for their confidence in the club. He also unveiled a personal project: a new wine from his vineyard called "Freisa 3-4-3", releasing on 5 October. "The 3-4-3 has been my fortune and I hope it is a good omen: with that system I built almost all my successes," he said. Roma have begun planning for the January transfer window to expand Gasperini's squad options. Among the profiles being monitored is Giorgi Kvernadze, a Georgian winger from Frosinone born in 2003, who has made a strong start to the season. Roma's scouts have closely followed the player, who has recorded 5 goals and 2 assists in Serie A and Coppa Italia. Frosinone appear reluctant to sell easily and have reportedly set the price at around €25 million. Napoli have also shown interest in Kvernadze. In his book "Oltre", Francesco Totti revealed a backstory from Paulo Dybala's arrival at Roma. The club had considered giving Dybala the number 10 shirt and wanted Totti himself to present it during the unveiling. Totti refused bluntly: "The answer was sharp: 'Are you all mad?' If you have the courage, give it to him yourselves. Nothing against the player—I like him very much as a person too." Dybala ultimately chose number 21, avoiding a direct comparison with Totti's legacy. Totti explained he would not oppose seeing the number 10 worn again, but with one condition: "Every day I hope another Totti manifests himself. One born in Rome, grown up in Rome, who chooses Roma for life. That shirt should go to someone who can build a long and deep bond with the club."

Gian Piero Gasperini met with AS Roma's business partners on 23 September, offering reflections on the club's direction and his approach to the role. Speaking about Roma's recent fixture against Inter, he said: "It was a spectacle. Thanks also to the new rules that now prevent time-wasting and favour entertainment, we are working well and I am very satisfied." Addressing the assembled sponsors and entrepreneurs, Gasperini emphasised the parallel between business success and football: "To make excellent investments you must have excellent ideas—that is the foundation for creating a business. Thank you also for the confidence you give to Roma, which gives us an extra responsibility." He highlighted Roma as a demanding environment where hard work and commitment are valued by those invested in the club. Gasperini revealed personal touches during the evening: he loves amatriciana, and on 5 October his wine house will unveil a new vintage called Freisa 3-4-3. "I chose this name because the 3-4-3 has been my fortune," he explained, "and I hope it brings good fortune too. With that formation I built almost all my successes."

Gian Piero Gasperini attended Roma's first commercial partner event at Relais Appia Antica on 23 September, where he fielded questions from club sponsors and offered his early assessment of the Roma job. The head coach acknowledged that Roma is a demanding place to work but stressed that serious effort is always rewarded. "Roma is a difficult place? I knew that it is very demanding and difficult from a football perspective," he said. "But what counts in football beyond results is the demonstration of working seriously. And that is always appreciated." Gasperini, whose side sits top of Serie A, also reflected on Roma's recent clash with Inter, calling it a spectacle. He credited the new regulations that limit time-wasting and promote attacking football. "It was a spectacle. Also thanks to the new rules that now allow us to avoid wasting time and privilege the show, we are working well and I am very happy," he added. Speaking to the gathered business figures, he thanked them for their confidence in Roma and acknowledged the extra responsibility that brings. In lighter moments, Gasperini revealed his love of amatriciana and announced that his wine venture, Cantina Gilli in Asti, will present a new wine on 5 October named Freisa 3-4-3—a nod to the tactical system that has defined his managerial success. "I chose this name because the 3-4-3 has been my fortune and I hope it brings good luck. With that formation I have built almost all my successes," he explained. Gasperini is a wine producer as well as a football manager.

Rodrigo Mora, who arrived this summer from Porto, has spoken about his early weeks at Roma while on international duty with Portugal's Under-21 squad. The 2007-born midfielder scored in his second appearance for the club against Lecce and has already featured in the Champions League, describing the experience as an important step in his development. Mora reflected on his transition from Porto, where he spent 19 years and played for the club for 10 of them. "It was a different change. I lived 19 years in Porto and played for Porto for 10. It's a different culture. But I'm happy with the change. It will be a positive change," he said. He emphasised his gratitude for Paulo Dybala's influence in his settling-in period: "He's someone I admired as a child, now to be able to play and train with him…to see the things he does, that few do…He's a humble person and has helped me a lot at the start of my Roma journey. I like him as a player and as a person. I'm grateful to be able to play at his side." On his goal against Lecce, Mora stated: "I love scoring. Scoring for Roma was beautiful, but I still want to score at Stadio Olimpico. It's special and I can't wait to score at Stadio Olimpico. I'm happy with my journey so far. The atmosphere at Stadio Olimpico is something really special and beautiful and it makes you want to play and score for Roma." He spoke candidly about leaving Porto, saying: "Farewells are never easy. It was difficult. It was a long period, it was my home. It will always be my home. All cycles close, they can reopen later. I'm leaving with a full heart, I was a champion with my club. I'm leaving as a champion and I'll continue to be another Porto fan, now supporting from Italy. I wish them good luck. I know things are going well, I hope they continue like that and that the second Scudetto arrives. I knew I needed a new challenge in my life. I'm grateful for all these years, but that's what I wanted, a new challenge in a competitive league like the Italian one." Mora also discussed his ambitions at Roma and his international prospects. "Football changes everything very quickly. Now I want to have a good season at Roma. I made my Champions League debut, it was an important step. I hope to win titles at Roma and play the best football possible. We're in a good phase, but it's a very competitive league. We're on the right track," he said. Regarding his Portugal Under-21 ambitions, he added: "It's everyone's dream. I've already been called up twice, I got injured. That's part of the game, we have a dream. Step by step, and continuing to work, one day it will come true."

Roberto Mancini held a press conference at Coverciano on the eve of Italy's Nations League matches, outlining his selection philosophy and squad-building approach. Among the 23 players called up are Roma defenders Gianluca Mancini and Daniele Ghilardi, while Bryan Cristante withdrew due to a physical problem. Mancini opted for an unusually large squad to assess young players and lay foundations for future campaigns. The Italy manager justified broadening his group, saying: "If I had called players who are getting on in years there would have been criticism. I've called young players because it's right to get to know them directly in order to have a strong squad in the future. I've called more players than usual because I want to see them directly on the pitch." He emphasised a blend of experience and youth: "I expect experienced players to help young players settle in. From young players, I expect them to give everything they have—young players often play relaxed and carefree." Mancini outlined his tactical ambitions: "I'm starting out to have a squad that dominates, that plays well, that always gives its maximum. You can't always win but we'll start out to do this, to win. We're all positive." He added that no formation would be treated as untouchable: "We're open to any tactical situation: we can play with two strikers, with a 4-3-3, but also in other ways. The players are capable of doing many things." Mancini addressed the relationship with supporters following his return to the Italy bench: "If a fan feels betrayed they can get angry, it's understandable. To win them back we must do things properly and bring the national team back where it deserves to be, and maybe things will calm down." On his ambitions for this second spell: "I'm here to win as quickly as possible. I'm curious to see the younger lads, to build a squad with these lads. I'm certain we'll have some fine satisfactions. Over the next four years we'll definitely bring something home, I'm sure of it. Some of the players I know—they just need to play." Mancini praised the new refereeing standards in Italy, noting that reduced stoppages for minor fouls would allow faster play. On Kean and Pio Esposito: "They haven't played in the last match but they'll play further on, because they're good. The fact that 0-0 draws have disappeared is more fun for viewers, and those players will come along later too."

Wesley spoke to Sky Sport after Roma's draw with Inter, reflecting on a performance where his side started well but lost focus after the break. "We knew it would be tough against this Inter side—they're one of Europe's best teams and you can't afford mistakes, which unfortunately happened," the Brazilian left-back said. "We managed to execute our game plan and I'm happy with that. In the second half, though, we came out distracted, conceded two goals, and both we and they had chances to win it. We've shown we deserve to be in this league position. After the break we can't make the same mistakes again—now we need to rest." Roma drew level with Inter's attacking quality but surrendered control after half-time, conceding twice before the match finished level. Wesley stressed the squad's underlying merit despite the lapse in concentration, a concern Gian Piero Gasperini will address during the international break ahead of Roma's next fixture.

Gian Piero Gasperini reflected on Roma's 2–2 draw with Inter in the fifth round of Serie A at the Stadio Olimpico, a fixture contested between two teams who had arrived at full points. The match delivered mutual satisfaction for the manager despite the late leveller. Gasperini said: "I believe so, it was a match where both sides could have won. The goal early in the second half gave Inter energy but we never gave up. This match must give us satisfaction and awareness." Gasperini acknowledged the physical demands on his squad and the schedule ahead. "The first half undoubtedly, we had important spaces and every time we broke we could be dangerous. The goal in the second half gave them a lot of energy and us apprehension. I had to change at the back because of fatigue; Balerdi too had to come off and that is a shame, but it means Dybala made it to the end, as did Soulé. We had the feeling that if we could withstand their thrust the match was still always open and we should be satisfied with that." He stressed that Roma must look inward and be aware of their capability: "We must be conscious that in certain conditions we can be a good, dangerous team. We have to see with the continuity of matches; now after the break we will have to grow with the full squad because the calendar will be demanding." On individual performances, Gasperini praised his summer arrival Balerdi unreservedly: "We took him because we knew his value. His injury, cramps, nothing serious, was topical. We made another change at the back which prevented us from making changes in midfield or attack, but his performance was superb." Regarding Manu Koné's substitution, he explained: "A choice of mine; in midfield he was undoubtedly flagging. He does not have 90 minutes from the start of the season—he played the World Cup through to the end, his fitness right now is not what it was last year. But Pisilli did well, as did the others who came on. I was not able to make changes up front, but I had the feeling we were still always dangerous, even in the second half." Gasperini looked ahead to the fixture list after the international break. "The calendar after the break will be tough; we start again with Como and Real Madrid. That becomes another championship, a marathon. But I have faith. I see a homogeneous squad and even the substitutes always come in well. I will also have to have courage; now with the break someone will improve their condition."

Matías Soulé spoke to DAZN after Roma's draw with Inter, acknowledging disappointment at surrendering a 2–0 first-half lead but insisting the result should serve as fuel for the season ahead. "We are tired, but also a bit disappointed," Soulé said. "We were ahead 2–0 and unfortunately they equalised. We shouldn't get down about it. Drawing in this way against a team like Inter, finishing the first half 2–0 up, and playing it like we did is very good for us. It has to give us energy for the next matches, to do much better." Soulé framed the draw as a positive sign despite Roma's failure to hold their advantage. "It's too early to say what the gap is between us and Inter. They are the strongest team for years. There is disappointment on our part because we were ahead, but we have to put this match to one side immediately. We drew with Inter, the strongest team, and it has to be a boost going into a championship that is still very long." On the competitive nature of Roma's attacking options, he highlighted the squad's depth: "We are all available, as happened against Atalanta when I came on for Mora. We are a very competitive team—whether from the start or during the match we all give our maximum. That is what makes you a team." Soulé reported improved physical condition after addressing a pubalgia issue during the summer. "Physically I feel very good. Fortunately I worked a lot in the summer on the pubalgia and it has gone away. Now I feel much better. Last year I could barely train. This year I feel much better." He noted his flexibility across the forward line: "I am used to playing on the right, but I need to know how to play on the left too and I try to do everything I can. On the right there is Dybala, who always makes the difference. On the left I try to give my contribution." Soulé concluded that Roma are "more of a team and more of a family compared to last year."

Matías Soulé expressed disappointment at Roma's failure to hold on to a 2–0 lead against Inter in Serie A's fifth matchday, but insisted the squad must not be demoralised by the result. "I am truly tired and a bit disappointed because we were ahead 2–0," Soulé said. "However, we must not give up because playing a match like this against Inter is very good for us — it must give us energy for the coming matches and to do much better." Asked about the gap between Roma and Inter at this stage, Soulé acknowledged that Gasperini's side faces the league's strongest team. "It is still too early to say. They are the strongest not only this year but already in previous years. There is disappointment on our part because we were two goals ahead. We must reset immediately. This must be extra motivation for a championship that is very long." He highlighted his own physical improvement since the start of the season, noting that a groin injury that had plagued him last year has now cleared. "I did a lot of work to cure it, even during the holiday, and that is what has got rid of it, so now I feel good," he explained. "Last year I hardly trained because I couldn't move. This year I have done some work and I feel much better. Then I have to get used to playing on the left — I don't feel the same as when I play on the right — but I try to do my best to help my teammates." Soulé also praised the competitive quality of Roma's attacking options. "We are all available, as happened with Atalanta when I came on and Mora had played very well from the start. We are a very competitive squad — whoever starts in the first half or the second gives their best and wants to play. That is what has raised the team's level compared to last year. We are more of a squad, more of a family, and that is important."

Roma sporting director Tony D'Amico spoke to reporters ahead of the fifth Serie A match between Roma and Inter at the Stadio Olimpico on 19 September 2026, with both sides unbeaten. On the acquisition of Leonardo Balerdi, D'Amico explained the club's reasoning and confirmed the deal's timing: "We needed to strengthen the defence with an experienced player, although he is still young. He has physical strength and pace. We have been following him for years, and in the last week we had the opportunity to acquire him on good terms as well. We are very happy. We have known him for years, we know the human values too, which are very important to us in building the squad." D'Amico stressed that Inter remain the benchmark as defending Serie A champions. "Inter is the reference team, Italian champions, strong and complete. For us it is a great motivation to test ourselves against the best," he said. When asked about the criticism surrounding Luca Percassi, D'Amico deflected focus to the immediate challenge: "In a pre-match like this, with a stadium like this, we think about enjoying this match, which will be difficult but I hope beautiful for us. We think about today and the future." On Manu Koné's recovery and availability for the fixture, D'Amico was positive: "Manu is well. We are happy with the whole squad. We know that whoever is called every Sunday always gives their contribution. After the break we will have many matches and we will need everyone. We hope Manu plays well tonight too."

Tony D'Amico spoke to Dazn before Roma's match against Inter, discussing both the challenge ahead and the squad reinforcement completed in the closing stages of the transfer window. On facing the Serie A champions, D'Amico said: "Inter is a reference point. They are Italian champions. They are a strong and complete team. It will be a difficult match but it is a satisfaction to compete with the best." D'Amico stressed that Roma have narrowed the gap to Inter, though he emphasised the Nerazzurri remain the benchmark. The defender highlighted the importance of Leonardo Balerdi's arrival for Roma's defensive needs. "We needed to strengthen defence with a player of experience, even though he is still young. He has played many matches, has physical strength and pace. In the final week of the market this opportunity came up and we were quick. We are very happy," D'Amico explained. He added that Balerdi was not an unexpected discovery: "No, we have known him for years. We know his values, including his human qualities, which are important for building the squad." On Manu Koné's return, D'Amico said: "Manu is well, we are pleased. Whoever is called upon on Sunday always gives his contribution. We count on the whole group; we need everyone. We hope Manu does well tonight too." He dismissed suggestions that Inter had inquired about any Roma player, answering simply: "No."

Roma's sporting director D'Amico spoke ahead of the club's Serie A fifth-round fixture against Inter, emphasising the challenge and opportunity of the match. "Inter are a reference point, they are Italian champions and a strong, complete squad. We know it will be a difficult match, but it is also a great motivation for us to test ourselves against the best," he said. D'Amico highlighted the defensive reinforcement made in the closing stages of the summer transfer window, describing the new arrival as a player Roma had tracked for years. "We needed to strengthen the defence, especially with an experienced player. He has physical strength and speed. We've been following him for a few years and in the last week of the market we had the opportunity to acquire him on good terms and we were quick. We are very happy," he explained. The director stressed that Roma know the technical and human qualities of all their new players, which he considers very important in squad building. On Manu Koné's availability, D'Amico said: "Manu is well, we are happy with him as we are with the whole squad. Whoever is called upon gives their contribution. After the international break we will have many matches and we will need everyone." D'Amico also suggested focusing on enjoying the match rather than analysing the wider context: "I think in a pre-match like this, with a stadium like this, it is better to think about enjoying the game, which will be difficult but I hope will be beautiful for us. We think about today."

Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta spoke ahead of today's fifth-round Serie A match between Roma and Inter, describing the fixture as a significant test. Marotta acknowledged Roma's early-season form, saying: "The Roma has demonstrated, in this start to the season, not only in points but also in the play expressed, to be a team of all respect." He also praised Gasperini's tactical influence on the club, highlighting the quality of football and concepts the Roma coach has instilled. Marotta framed the encounter as a chance for Inter to prove their credentials as defending champions. "It will be a beautiful challenge against an opponent of great value," he said. "Regardless of the result, it counts a lot the performance that we manage to offer." The Inter chief also reflected on the recent loss of Sandro Mazzola, calling him "a piece of nerazzurri history" who represented important values the club must preserve and transmit to future generations.

Gianluca Mancini spoke ahead of Roma's Serie A fixture against Inter at matchday five, describing the visitors as a reference point for Italian football but cautioning against treating the encounter as a season-defining contest. "Inter is a benchmark for everyone in Italy, they are a great squad and have proven it in Europe too," Mancini said. "Tonight's match is a test for us and for them, but we are only at matchday five. Clearly we must think about ourselves, about doing the right things in training. It is not a match that counts for anything—it is too early." Mancini reflected on Roma's previous meetings with Inter, highlighting areas for improvement. "Last season on the return fixture, the first half was not played badly, but we conceded that goal and then we loosened up a bit in the second half," he explained. "At home we played our match and deserved something more. It is clear that those mistakes must not be repeated and we must try to score more goals than them."

Gianluca Mancini spoke to DAZN before Roma's match against Inter, describing the fixture as a significant examination for both clubs despite its early timing in the season. "The Inter is a reference point for everyone in Italy, it's a very great team and it has also shown that in Europe," Mancini said. "This match is a test for both us and them but we are only at the fifth game of the championship, we are at the beginning. We think about ourselves and doing the right things in training to repeat them in the match as we are doing now. It's not a match that counts for anything, it's too early, we are at the beginning. We hope it will be a beautiful match and to take home the three points." Mancini reflected on previous encounters between the sides. Referencing last season's return fixture, he noted: "If I look at last year, in the return match we played very badly in the first half. In the second half instead we loosened up. At home we did our match, we deserved more but we must not repeat the same mistakes." Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini had previously indicated that Roma's final match in Milan last season marked the beginning of their strong campaign, and Mancini sees this meeting as an opportunity to test where both teams stand early in the 2026-27 season.

Wesley has explained his tactical transition under Gian Piero Gasperini, revealing how he has adapted to playing on the left wing despite preferring his natural right-hand side. Speaking to ESPN Brasil, the Roma defender discussed the positional shift that Gasperini has progressively developed over recent months. Wesley described his willingness to fulfil whatever role the coach demands. "The manager saw I had potential there… and I don't ask questions, right? 'Why have you put me on the left?' I go on the pitch and just do what he asks," he said. On his preference, he added: "As for my adaptation to the left: I feel comfortable, only I prefer to play on the right, obviously. But I'd play anywhere, in every position, it doesn't matter. I just want to be in the starting eleven, that's all." The positional change has refined his attacking approach. Wesley explained that he is working particularly on improving his final third: "What I'm improving, and what I still need to improve, is my last third. And I know that. Now on the left it's much easier for me, because I cut inside and cross or cut inside and shoot. So I train a lot. And my adaptation to the left has been about that." The versatility gives Gasperini flexibility across both flanks, with Wesley now capable of operating on either wing without compromising his availability or commitment to the team.

Leonardo Balerdi has made a swift impression at Roma in his opening weeks, drawing praise from head coach Gasperini after just three matches. The Argentine defender, who arrived this summer from Marseille, spoke to DAZN France about his early experience in Rome and the hurdles that preceded it. When asked about Gasperini's compliments, Balerdi said: "Certainly I was happy first, but with calm, because there is only one Baresi and he did something extraordinary in football, and I must stay humble and continue to work. Certainly it is the coach who says this, so it motivates me. I must not find motivation there, but stay calm and continue on my path, because I have only just arrived. I have only just arrived, I played only a match and a half, so I need to keep playing." Before joining Roma, Balerdi faced one of the darkest periods of his career. Missing the World Cup through injury was a profound blow. He explained: "Those were the most difficult moments for me, because I had too much hope. My whole family and my whole city were behind me and when I realised I could not play in the World Cup, it was a blow, no? A very, very hard blow for me. But in football there are moments like this, and I knew that at that moment I would not be too happy, but I must think that in the end this will help me: certainly in football, but also in life. It is a hard blow that will give me a lot of things, if I take only the positive things, if positive things can be found." Bareldi's final weeks at Marseille were equally challenging. He was whistled by supporters in his last appearance at the Vélodrome. "Certainly it was a difficult moment and I did not want to end like that in the last match at the Vélodrome," he said. "But I do not dwell on this. I take all the days I lived in Marseille: the good things certainly, the bad ones too, because it will give me strength and will help me for the future. But I do not stop there and I also remain with the love they gave me during the 6–7 years I was there. I think that is the most important thing. To remain with this, given that they gave me much love during all my time at Marseille."

Santiago Castro has given his first substantial interview since joining Roma, speaking to DAZN about his early weeks at the club, his relationship with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, and the quality of his fellow attackers. The 21-year-old Argentine striker, who arrived this summer from Bologna, reflected on the step up in class and the challenge of competing with established forwards in the Giallorossi squad. Castro highlighted the calibre of his new teammates, naming Paulo Dybala, Donyell Malen, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Matías Soulé and Rodrigo Mora as examples of the standard he now faces daily. He said: "Sì, certo. Quando arrivi in una squadra come la Roma ti trovi davanti giocatori come Dybala, Malen, Pellegrini, Soulé e adesso è arrivato anche Rodrigo Mora." On training alongside Dybala and Malen, he remarked: "Paulo e Donyell sono giocatori che impressionano i tifosi ogni settimana e noi che li vediamo ogni giorno. Noi che ci alleniamo con loro vediamo cose che sembrano appartenere a un altro sport." He praised Dybala's left foot as among the finest in Italy and the world, and commended Malen's aggression, movement and shooting ability. Gasperini's management style has impressed Castro, who said the coach emphasizes constant readiness over any hierarchy of starting players. "Con lui non ti senti mai una riserva o un titolare: devi sempre essere pronto, sempre al massimo, sia in allenamento sia in partita," Castro explained. The striker also recalled his debut at the Olimpico against Atalanta as a proud moment at age 21, noting the warmth of the crowd as a powerful motivator. He expressed respect for Inter's Lautaro Martinez ahead of the upcoming fixture, describing him as "un grandissimo giocatore, molto forte" and noting his consistency in Serie A and leadership of one of Italy's biggest clubs. Castro also touched on the group atmosphere at Roma, mentioning the presence of several Argentine players and praising the cohesion with staff and international teammates alike. On wearing the number 9 shirt, he said: "È bello pensare a tutti i giocatori che hanno avuto la numero 9 nella Roma. Sono stati tanti e hanno fatto tantissime cose importanti, come Balbo e altri grandi attaccanti. Io spero solamente di riuscire a fare anche solo una piccola parte di quello che hanno fatto loro."

Gian Piero Gasperini has downplayed Sunday's meeting with Inter at the Olimpico as a scudetto decider, calling it instead a significant fixture between two in-form teams but one that arrives too early in the season to carry championship weight. In a wide-ranging interview, the Roma head coach reflected on the club's strong start to 2026-27, the recovery from last season's intense campaign, and the squad's growing cohesion. Gasperini acknowledged Inter's standing as the benchmark in Italian football. "Inter is ahead of everyone, they prove it with the results they are making and those they have made in recent years. They remain a reference point for all the other teams trying to climb and get closer," he said. He stressed that Roma cannot fix their deficiencies in five matches and that meaningful objectives can only be set after around twenty games. Roma's qualification for the UEFA Champions League this season was not guaranteed last year, he noted, and he sees the competition as an opportunity to grow by testing themselves against Europe's elite. On Paulo Dybala, Gasperini said: "It is a great aspect, perhaps for some years he was not able to have this continuity of performance and condition, not only of quality. He is a champion recovered to our football." He praised Dybala and Donyell Malen as complementary forwards, describing Dybala's ability to spot Malen's runs and serve him with precision, combined with Malen's capacity to convert straightforward chances into goals. On young defender Emanuele Lulli, Gasperini sidestepped comparisons to legendary defenders, saying he compares players only with the world's strongest to judge merit fairly and that he introduces young players because they deserve it, not for convenience. He also backed Leonardo Balerdi, saying the defender made a strong impact despite having done only partial pre-season preparation with Roma, evidence of his professionalism. Gasperini identified the club's greatest strength as "a great unity between environment, squad, fans and society. This is something that helps you work well and gives you confidence to achieve the best results." He expressed satisfaction with the new league format this season and noted that Roma fans are content. The squad combines youth and experienced players, each contributing—younger members bringing freshness and established players setting an example through their dedication. Roma face Como before the Real Madrid fixture in the Champions League.