Gasperini: Roma in final sprint with Inter clash looming

Roma enter decisive phase under Gasperini's leadership

AS Roma are entering the final stretch of the 2025/2026 season, and manager Gian Piero Gasperini has issued a clear directive: "we're in the final sprint, so let’s tighten up the straps and get pedalling hard". With only minimal points from their last three Serie A matches and a Europa League exit to Bologna, the pressure is mounting. Despite a narrow 1-0 win over Lecce, Roma have slipped in the standings, making every upcoming fixture crucial in the race for Champions League qualification.

Gasperini, in his first season at Roma, is attempting to implement a new footballing philosophy — one distinct from the club’s traditional approach. Yet, structural challenges persist. "We’re at a stage now where there’s less and less margin for error", the coach warned, acknowledging the weight of past issues on the current sporting directors. The financial incentive of European football remains a key motivator for the club’s hierarchy.

Injury crisis deepens ahead of San Siro trip

The injury list continues to grow, with Wesley sidelined for a month due to a muscular issue sustained during international duty with Brazil. He joins Manu Koné, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk, and Evan Ferguson on the treatment table. However, there is a silver lining: Matias Soulé has returned to full training after a long recovery. "He’s been out for a long time, but over the last week he started to look like himself again", said Gasperini.

With Wesley unavailable, options include Devyne Rensch or Kostas Tsimikas in his position. Angelino is also progressing but remains short of match fitness after an extended absence. Tactical adjustments will be vital as Roma prepare for a pivotal clash at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

Gasperini critiques Italy’s footballing structure

Gasperini, the last Italian manager to win a European trophy (Europa League with Atalanta), was candid about Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup — the third consecutive absence. "It’s not cyclical, it’s a structural issue", he stated, emphasizing that the problem extends beyond coaching and into the social and developmental fabric of Italian football.

"The entire system isn’t working, yet there are so many kids who play football. We must all face up to the problem, including on a social level."

Amid reports of internal tensions with sporting directors Ricky Massara and Claudio Ranieri, Gasperini remained focused on the pitch. "We haven’t had recent meetings — we’re concentrated on the league". As the season reaches its climax, Roma’s fate hinges on consistency, fitness, and unity.