Coach Gian Piero Gasperini closed Roma's week of preparation with a press conference in which he outlined the situation of the injured players and the strategies to be adopted for Saturday's match against Genoa. The focus was first on the recovery of some key players, then on how to make the most of the young squad and on a psychological approach that avoids excessive pressure on the Scudetto and Champions League.
Among the most important injuries, Gasperini reported that midfielder Koné suffered a first-degree injury. The coach underlined that, although it is not particularly serious, he will require time to recover and that he hopes to have him back on the pitch for the next match against Sassuolo. On the other hand, Dybala has been warned of a strain on his calf, but the coach expressed confidence that the player will be back fit within the next week. These updates indicate that Roma are trying to maintain their playing strength despite physical difficulties.
Gasperini also announced the introduction of new talents into the team. The young midfielder Castro, who has already shown good performances in the league, will be included in the next matches. The coach reiterated the importance of giving space to young players and expanding rotations, stating that the team will have to play with Mora and Castro in view of the match against Genoa. This choice aims to maintain the freshness of the squad and prepare the players for future challenges.
During the conference, Gasperini addressed the recent European defeat on Wednesday, explaining that the team did not suffer a physical decline but had difficulties in organization and reaction. He underlined that the team must express itself without feeling obliged to win the scudetto or Champions League, but simply to give its best in every match. The coach also mentioned the difficulties of defenders at set pieces, highlighting the need to improve concentration and organization in these situations.
Finally, Gasperini spoke about the calendar and the need to have more alternatives in the squad. He said that, with the number of games the team faces, it is not possible to maintain the same squad as five years ago. As for the match against Genoa, the coach described the match as a complex challenge, with the opponents ready to close down and start again. He expressed confidence in the team, saying that Roma will return to the championship as protagonists and that the objective is to play to win, valorising those who have played less.