Gian Piero Gasperini enters the opening stretch of the Serie A campaign facing squad adjustments and financial constraints, according to club statements and press conference remarks reported by TMW and asroma.com. Addressing the media ahead of Roma’s fixture against Fiorentina, Gasperini discussed squad depth, transfer strategy, and upcoming tactical adjustments.
Squad Depth and Financial Restraints at Trigoria
According to asroma.com, Roma’s squad currently lists 23 players, leaving two spots open against the UEFA Champions League limit. Gasperini noted that while the club aimed high initially following qualification for Europe’s premier competition, financial realities required a strategic shift.
The club focused on reducing the wage bill while securing younger, high-potential talent. New arrivals include defender Nahuel Molina, who joined to replace Zeki Celik, and striker Santiago Castro, who arrived following the departures of Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson. In defense, Konstantinos Koulierakis joins to reinforce the backline behind Mario Hermoso, while young prospect Rodrigo Mora arrives from Porto, where he scored ten goals two seasons ago.
“We’ve got Molina, who is an important player. He played in the World Cup final and he’s been world champion,” Gasperini told asroma.com, highlighting the veteran’s maturity.
Departures have significantly trimmed the wage structure, with Stephan El Shaarawy, Lorenzo Venturino, Bryan Zaragoza, Angelino, and Kostas Tsimikas all leaving the club. Gasperini praised the willingness of veterans Paulo Dybala, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Bryan Cristante to take wage cuts to facilitate the club’s financial adjustment.
Tactical Flexibility and the Serie A Title Race
Looking at the broader league landscape, Gasperini acknowledged to TMW that Inter remains the benchmark in Italian football. “The numbers say Inter are the strongest team in our league, and they have been for some years,” Gasperini said, noting that Roma is working to reach that competitive tier.
When questioned about his historical record against Inter—often cited as a tactical hurdle—Gasperini noted that results have proved difficult to secure in recent years despite managerial changes on both sides. On the pitch, the Roma manager emphasized tactical fluidity rather than fixed formations, pointing to previous matches where he introduced centre-backs or adjusted attacking midfielders like Dybala to control the match flow.
Did you know? Roma enters the match against Fiorentina with a fully available squad. Gasperini confirmed to TMW that every player is cleared for selection following the final training session, including Lorenzo Pellegrini, who the manager noted “can do everything.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Roma’s notable new signings for the season?
According to asroma.com, Roma has added defender Nahuel Molina, forward Santiago Castro, defender Konstantinos Koulierakis, and young attacker Rodrigo Mora.
What did Gian Piero Gasperini say about Inter Milan?
As reported by TMW, Gasperini stated that numbers prove Inter is the strongest team in Serie A and has been for several years, while Roma continues working to reach that competitive level.
Is Roma’s squad fully fit for the Fiorentina match?
Yes, according to TMW, Gasperini confirmed that all players are available for selection heading into the fixture.