Sun Dec 07 13:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Roma faces Cagliari with a weakened squad due to illness and minor injuries. Key players like Dybala and Baldanzi are recovering from the flu, potentially impacting Gasperini’s attacking options. Angeliño is back in training after being cleared by the doctors. While Wesley remains doubtful, others have also been dealing with niggles, like Manu Koné and Neil El Aynaoui, potentially opening a door for Niccoló Pisilli. Gasperini is weighing his options for the striker position, considering Ferguson as a likely starter with Soulé and Pellegrini in support. The coach must also balance the Cagliari game with an upcoming Europa League match and a subsequent league game. The predicted starting lineup features Çelik and Tsimikas as wing-backs, and a back three of Mancini, Ndicka, and Hermoso.

News Article:

Roma’s Attack Hampered by Flu Ahead of Cagliari Clash; Ferguson Expected to Lead the Line

ROMA – Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini faces a selection headache ahead of their Serie A clash against Cagliari, with several key players battling illness and minor injuries. Paulo Dybala and Tommaso Baldanzi have been sidelined with the flu, casting doubt on their availability and Gasperini’s preferred attacking strategy.

“It hasn’t been an easy week because lots of players have had niggles or flu,” Gasperini revealed in a press conference, adding that he’s also monitoring the fitness of Wesley, who is unlikely to be risked.

The absences potentially open the door for opportunities for other players. Niccoló Pisilli could see increased playing time in midfield due to minor issues with Manu Koné and Neil El Aynaoui.

Despite the setbacks, Gasperini is confident in his squad’s depth. Angeliño has returned to training after being cleared by the doctors, boosting the team’s options on the left.

Early indications suggest that [Scott] Ferguson will likely start as the central striker, with Matias Soulé and Lorenzo Pellegrini providing support in attack. Zeki Çelik and Kostas Tsimikas are expected to fill the wing-back positions, while a back three of Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka, and Mario Hermoso is predicted.

The match comes at a critical juncture for Roma, with a Europa League fixture looming on Thursday, forcing Gasperini to carefully manage his squad’s fitness.

Read More