Sun Jan 25 18:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Roma Faces Milan in Crucial Top-Four Clash Amidst Tactical Shifts

The Story:
Roma is set to face Milan at the Olimpico in a pivotal match that could significantly impact their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League. Having suffered losses to top rivals like Milan, Napoli, and Juventus earlier in the season, this game presents a crucial opportunity for Roma to reverse their fortunes. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini appears to be strategically managing his squad, resting key players during the midweek game against Stuttgart to ensure they are fresh for the Milan encounter.

Key Points:

  • Roma faces Milan at the Olimpico, aiming for their first win against a top-four rival this season.
  • Key players like Evan Ndicka, Gianluca Mancini, Bryan Cristante, Wesley, and Paulo Dybala were rested during the midweek match against Stuttgart and are expected to return to the starting lineup.
  • Artem Dovbyk, Mario Hermoso, and Angeliño are confirmed absences, with Devyne Rensch being a surprise omission from the squad list.
  • Donyell Malen, following his impressive debut, will lead the attack, supported by Dybala and Matías Soulé. Lorenzo Pellegrini could potentially replace Soulé in the starting lineup.
  • The projected starting lineup is: Svilar; Mancini, Nicka, Ghilardi; Çelik, Cristante, Koné, Wesley; Dybala, Soulé, Malen.

Critical Analysis:
Gasperini’s tactical rotation during the Stuttgart match clearly indicates a strategic focus on prioritizing the Milan game. Given Roma’s previous losses to top teams, securing a win against Milan is paramount for their Champions League aspirations. By resting key players, Gasperini aims to ensure his squad is physically prepared to face a rested Milan side, highlighting the perceived importance of this fixture.

Key Takeaways:

  • This match is critical for Roma’s Champions League qualification hopes, serving as an opportunity to gain ground against a top-four rival.
  • Gasperini is employing strategic squad management, resting key players in preceding matches to optimize performance against Milan.
  • Donyell Malen’s debut has added a new dynamic to Roma’s attack, and his performance alongside Dybala will be crucial.
  • Defensive stability, anchored by Mancini and Ndicka, will be vital in containing Milan’s attacking threats.
  • The absence of key players like Hermoso and Angeliño necessitates tactical adjustments in defense and on the wings.

    Read More

Related News: