Injury Woes Mount for Giallorossi
AS Roma is facing a growing list of injury concerns as the international break concludes. Key forward Donyell Malen, who joined Roma from Aston Villa in January 2026 and has been in prolific form with 21 goals in 25 Serie A matches, has withdrawn from the Netherlands squad due to an unspecified injury [1]. Similarly, Wesley has pulled out of the Brazil national team due to a strain in his right thigh [2]. These absences are significant blows to Roma’s attacking options, especially given Malen’s crucial role in their strong start to the season. Further compounding the team’s challenges, Paulo Dybala will be rested by Gian Piero Gasperini following a heavy early workload [2]. In midfield, Bryan Cristante is doubtful after coming off against Inter with fatigue, and captain Lorenzo Pellegrini is still building fitness after recently returning to full training [2]. Matias Soule, however, has recovered from a groin problem and feels physically fit, providing some relief for the squad [3].
Strong Start Overshadowed by Setbacks
Despite the recent injury setbacks, AS Roma has enjoyed an impressive start to the Serie A season, currently sitting in joint first place with Inter Milan [4]. The team had won their previous four opening fixtures before drawing 2-2 with Inter in a top-of-the-table clash [3]. This draw, while ending their perfect start, showcased Roma’s attacking ambition, with the team having an incredible chance for a 3-1 lead with Malen firing at the goalkeeper [4]. Matias Soule, who is adapting to playing on the left wing, expressed disappointment with the draw but acknowledged Inter’s strength, believing the result provides energy for future matches [3]. The team’s defensive record has also been stellar, holding the league’s least-beaten defense having conceded only one goal prior to the Inter match [5]. The squad’s depth has been noted as a positive aspect, which will be crucial in navigating the current injury crisis.
Tactical Adjustments and Expected Line-ups
With several key players either injured or being rested, manager Gian Piero Gasperini will need to make tactical adjustments for upcoming fixtures. Before the international break, Paulo Dybala, Donyell Malen, and Matias Soule were all expected to start for Roma [6]. However, with Malen and Dybala now sidelined, opportunities may arise for other players. Leonardo Balerdi, who needed to come off due to injury in the Inter match, was also expected to start [4]. Rodrigo Mora performed well in the previous match against Atalanta and could see increased involvement [3]. Evan Ndicka is expected to start on the bench, indicating potential defensive stability [6]. The adaptability of players like Matias Soule, who is comfortable on the left wing, will be vital in maintaining Roma’s attacking threat despite the absences. The team’s ability to maintain their strong form will depend heavily on how well they manage these personnel challenges and integrate available players into the starting eleven.
What it means
AS Roma currently sits atop the Serie A table with 13 points from 5 matches, boasting an impressive record of four wins and one draw. Their goal difference of +11 (14 goals scored, 3 conceded) highlights both their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The recent 2-2 draw against Inter Milan, following a 2-0 away win against Torino and a 2-1 home win against Atalanta, indicates a strong run of form in the league. However, a 1-1 draw against Fenerbahçe in the Champions League suggests potential challenges in European competition. The next fixture will test the squad’s depth and resilience as they navigate a demanding schedule with key players sidelined. Maintaining their league position will require the team to overcome these injury concerns and continue their consistent performances.
Sources
- Football Italia: Malen withdraws from Netherlands squad after Roma injury scare football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Roma’s Wesley out of Brazil squad after thigh strain football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Roma’s Soule on Inter: ‘Obviously they are the strongest’ football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Gasperini: ‘Roma positivity after 2-2 with Inter, both teams could’ve won it’ football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Poll: Lautaro Martinez vs. Malen — Who do you prefer? football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Official Roma squad list for big Serie A game vs. Inter football-italia.net ↩
