Evan Ferguson and Matias Soulé lead the way for Roma, who lost a battle with Morocco for Neil El Aynaoui, as they go head-to-head with Nico Paz in a new False 9 role for Como.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
This is the concluding fixture in Serie A Week 15 and could have important ramifications on the top spots.
A victory would allow Roma to close up on the leading pack, but a defeat would see them caught in joint fourth place by Como.
The Giallorossi are in dire need of a boost after back-to-back Serie A defeats to Napoli and Cagliari, although they did get back on track in the Europa League on Thursday with their 3-0 win away to Celtic.
Ferguson scored twice in that match and wants to ride the wave of enthusiasm, especially as Paulo Dybala is only ready for the bench.
Zeki Celik was sent off in Sardinia and is therefore suspended, with Artem Dovbyk injured and Angelino back on the bench after two months out with pneumonia.
Evan Ndicka was given permission to delay his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations, but Morocco refused to let El Aynaoui stay in the squad.
Roma defender Obite Evan Ndicka looks on during the Italian Serie A football match between AS Roma and Torino on February 26, 2024 at the Olympic stadium in Rome. (Photo by Tiziana FABI / AFP) (Photo by TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)
Como are coming off a thumping 4-0 defeat to Inter, but had been unbeaten in 11 Serie A rounds before that.
They have a similar problem with AFCON duty, but were given permission to keep hold of Assane Diao until tomorrow, while Maxi Perrone is suspended.
Alvaro Morata, Sergi Roberto, Alberto Dossena and Edoardo Goldaniga are also out of action.
Tasos Douvikas was expected to lead the attack, with support from Jayden Addai, Nico Paz and Diao.
Instead, it looks as if Nico Paz will be moved into a False 9 role, with Martin Baturina stepping in behind him, although Diao could also be the centre-forward.
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 24: Jayden Addai (L) of Como 1907 celebrates with teammate Nico Paz (R) after scoring his team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Como 1907 at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on November 24, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Roma have lost their appeal to use Neil El Aynaoui in tonight’s Serie A match against Como, as Morocco refused permission, but Evan Ndicka and Assane Diao will play.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT.
This is the final match of Serie A Week 15 and in theory the players who have been called up for Africa Cup of Nations duty should be available to their clubs until the conclusion of the round.
However, as this game is scheduled for a Monday evening, it technically falls outside the parameters and their nations can withdraw them.
El Aynaoui out of Roma squad, Ndicka stays in
Roma defender Obite Evan Ndicka looks on during the Italian Serie A football match between AS Roma and Torino on February 26, 2024 at the Olympic stadium in Rome. (Photo by Tiziana FABI / AFP) (Photo by TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)
Roma asked permission to both Morocco for El Aynaoui and the Ivory Coast for Ndicka.
While the defender was allowed to remain because the first Ivory Coast match against Mozambique isn’t until December 24, Morocco won their appeal to FIFA to call in El Aynaoui as they open up the tournament against Comoros on December 21.
It means the midfielder won’t be in the squad for Roma tonight.
LECCE, ITALY – APRIL 19: Assane Diao of Como scores his team’s advantage goal during the Serie A match between Lecce and Como at Stadio Via del Mare on April 19, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Argentine talents Matias Soulé and Nico Paz will face off in a big match between Roma and Como at the Stadio Olimpico this evening.
It kicks off at 20:45 CET (19:45 GMT), and it’s the final match of Serie A Round 15.
Just three points separate the two teams in the table, with Roma in fourth and Como in seventh.
CREMONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Matias Soule of AS Roma celebrates after scoring the 0-1 goal during the Serie A match between US Cremonese and AS Roma at Stadio Giovanni Zini on November 23, 2025 in Cremona, Italy. (Photo by Marco M. Mantovani/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi are without the injured Artem Dovbyk and Neil El Aynaoui and the suspended Zeki Celik, so Devyne Rensch is expected to start as a right midfielder with Wesley on the opposite flank.
Soulé and Lorenzo Pellegrini will provide support to Roma’s centre-forward, and according to Tuttosport and Gazzetta, Evan Ferguson is favourite over Paulo Dybala for a starting spot up front.
COMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 19: Nico Paz of Como 1907 celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on October 19, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Como are without the suspended Maximo Perrone and the injured Alberto Dossena, Sergi Roberto, Edoardo Goldaniga and Alvaro Morata.
Anastasios Douvikas is expected to lead the Azzurri’s attack, while Jayden Addai and Assane Diao compete for a starting spot as right winger.
Roma vs. Como – where to watch on TV
The match will be available on DAZN in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live commentary via a live blog.
Gian Piero Gasperini confirms Roma will have Evan Ndicka and potentially Paulo Dybala starting against Como on Monday. ‘We have all the ingredients to do well.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday at 19.45 GMT.
The Giallorossi are badly in need of a boost in Serie A after back-to-back defeats against Napoli and Cagliari, both with 1-0 results.
Gasperini forced into some changes
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, gestures as he gives the team instructions during the Serie A match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Zeki Celik was sent off in Sardinia and is therefore suspended, which makes holding on to Ndicka for a little longer before Africa Cup of Nations duty all the more important.
“Ndicka is there tomorrow, for the rest we’ll see in the next games. Morocco appealed to FIFA for Neil El Aynaoui, so we await their response,” explained Gasperini in his press conference.
“Those teams who played on Saturday and Sunday could use their players, but seeing as we are scheduled for Monday, we could have a problem, despite the fact it is the same round of fixtures.”
Como are coming off a 4-0 defeat to Inter, yet before that had been flying high in the table and pushing for European places.
“It will certainly be a tense match, as Como are no longer a surprise, both for the investment made and the quality in the squad. They are very pleasant to watch, so tomorrow will be a game between two teams who want the maximum result,” continued Gasperini.
“Cesc Fabregas has given Como a precise identity that aims for results via good football, with attacking wingers who can also cut inside.”
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Roma had perhaps a much better start to the campaign than many expected, but have since run into problems, especially with the lack of goals.
“The start was better than even the rosiest predictions, as I came here with the hope to do well and the belief this was the right atmosphere to do my work.
“We must be ambitious and not arrogant, keep solid and united. We have all the right ingredients to mix together and do well, with the club, the fans, the possibility of building a new stadium and boosting investment.
“As for Ferguson, he needs to be a player who is of use to Roma, that is the most important thing. He was the other day and that is what counts, Roma first and foremost, above everyone and everything.”
CAGLIARI, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Roma’s coach Gian Piero Gasperini look on during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Sant’Elia on December 07, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Dybala has been used as a False 9 on several occasions, but he continues to struggle with a history of injury problems.
“We’ll see tomorrow if he is there from the start, as he had a positive moment, but today’s football does not all for you to be anything less than 100 per cent. I have no doubts about Paulo when he is in good shape.
“When he has been healthy, he always played whole games, including several in a row.”
His fitness record is believed to be one of the main reasons why Roma are in no rush to renew his contract, while Lorenzo Pellegrini is also in the final seven months of his deal.
“With regards to contract renewals, it is purely an economic issue,” assured Gasperini.
Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi warns that the Lega Serie A must clamp down on insults between players after the Mario Hermoso and Michael Folorunsho controversy.
The Minister spoke to reporters at a political event and was asked several questions on the current Calcio landscape.
Although he did not specifically name anyone, it was evident he was talking about last week’s ugly clash between Cagliari midfielder Folorunsho and Roma defender Hermoso.
Abodi wants action against unacceptable insults
CAGLIARI, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Michael Folorunsho of Cagliari fouls Zeki Celik of Roma during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Sant’Elia on December 07, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“If a coach does not think he must also be an educator, then something really isn’t adding up,” said Abodi.
“It also doesn’t add up when a professional on the field makes a violent and unacceptable insult towards the mother of an opponent. When that happens, it cannot just end with a pat on the back.
“Aside from simple politeness, that is anti-sporting behaviour, it is against the rules of the sport. And we have seen too often that people hide behind the interpretation of the rules.
“The behaviour of professionals must be exemplary.”
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 03: Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi attends during the 1st SS Lazio conference: bullying and cyberbullying in schools and sports at the Olimpic stadium on June 03, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
This is because although there is very clear video footage of what was said, including ‘your mother is a w***e and she needs to die,’ video evidence can only be used by the Disciplinary Committee for certain incidents.
That does include blasphemy, which is the worst type of swearing in Italian football, but not vile insults like this.
“I am not being a spoilsport here, but I do believe that considering the media visibility that players have, this carries with it a sense of responsibility,” continued Minister for Sport Abodi.
“There also has to be a disciplinary mechanism that can take action and make people realise this is not ok, because if they are allowed to insult like this, then they feel authorised to continue doing it.
“Insults we see in Serie A then will prompt even worse insults in the third division or the under-15 teams. Every gesture can be read as educational or damaging.”
Cesc Fabregas reveals he had an ‘unpleasant’ conversation with the coach of Senegal, prepares to face Roma, and is glad the Australian match with AC Milan seems to be off.
The Lariani are in action on Monday at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome at 19.45 GMT.
“I am very curious to see how the team reacts to three consecutive away games, as it is a new experience for me too,” said Fabregas.
“At times we analyse things too much, and that is all my fault, I raise my hand in front of the players, the loss to Inter was my defeat because of the way I prepared against a top team.
“I saw their defeat to Liverpool and I think we did many things better than they did, but we are a work in progress. If I want Jacobo Ramon to become like Konate or Van Dijk, who made such a big difference defensively, then he needs to learn from these experiences.”
Fabregas ready to take risks with Como
FLORENCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Cesc Fabregas manager of Como 1907 reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Como 1907 at Artemio Franchi on September 21, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Despite that setback, Como are still flying high in the Serie A table and are ahead of Juventus.
“In the last 25 games, we lost only three, two of them against Inter and the other Bologna,” continued Fabregas.
“This is a competitive team, it doesn’t give up, it wants to play with its own identity.”
Fabregas is also not shy about standing up for his club, even if his power is ultimately not enough to really shift things.
This is revealed in the way he discussed losing Assane Diao to international duty with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations next month.
“He is called up and I spoke to him after the game with Inter. I spoke to the coach of Senegal, it was an unpleasant conversation. They have all the power here. Diao will go, if that’s the way they want to deal with it. He’s leaving on Tuesday.”
NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 01: Cesc Fabregas Como 1907 head coach during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Como 1907 at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 01, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
When it comes to power, the clubs had been pushing to reschedule the Serie A game against AC Milan in Australia, but new problems make that unlikely.
There are also concerns for Alvaro Morata due to injury, so he won’t be risked, and Tasos Douvikas should step in upfront.
Maxi Perrone is suspended in midfield and Sergi Roberto nowhere near fully fit either.
Gian Piero Gasperini has influenced so many coaches in Italian football over the years, including a relatively late arrival to Serie A like Fabregas.
“I know Gasperini is a special coach with remarkable methodology that he created, something very different within Italian football. Many coaches, Spanish an English, call me to ask why he does this or that.
“You have to say, wow, this is Gasperini. He created this vision for many years, a clear identity, and helps young players to grow, so for this I have enormous respect.”
COMO, ITALY – AUGUST 24: Como 1907 coach Cesc Fabregas looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on August 24, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Fabregas has also tried to create his own identity at Como, which is why he does not regret the aggressive approach against Inter, even if they lost 4-0.
“I hear Max Allegri at Milan saying they want to finish in the top four, but want to do it their way. I say the same, we want to get there with our own identity. I could’ve been more defensive against Inter, but for the way I see football, it wouldn’t have helped our growth process. We go to the Stadio Olimpico with our ideas.
“I saw the statistics of the Liverpool game, and Inter ran a lot more against us than with Liverpool. I want to create an identity here, which means going to San Siro and playing our game. You can call me arrogant for that, but I prefer this to just going to defend and hope for the best.”
Niclas Füllkrug has not made the right Premier League impact, so West Ham United and his agents are trying to find him a new club in January, offering him to AC Milan and Roma.
However, the Serie A sides have not seemed particularly interested in taking up these proposals, as he has scored zero goals for the Hammers this season and is struggling to deal with the shift from the Bundesliga.
Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and West Ham United FC at The King Power Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
We will see if things change, but in the meantime there are more pros than cons on the idea of bringing Füllkrug to Italian football.
The first issue is his age, as he will celebrate his 33rd birthday in February and West Ham paid €27m to sign him from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2024.
Moving to another new league he is unaccustomed to in January would be risky, so the most likely destination is a return to Germany mid-season.
Marco Palestra is shining for Cagliari, but Atalanta still have control of the 20-year-old who was on Roma and Juventus’ agenda last summer.
Palestra has recently been linked with several Serie A heavyweights, a natural, if somewhat belated, recognition of the outstanding form shown by the 2005-born right-back.
Explosive, tireless and devastating down the flank, Palestra looks unstoppable, and tonight, he’ll experience a very special match as he’ll return home for Atalanta-Cagliari.
Palestra returns to Bergamo
TURIN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Francisco Fernandes da Conceicao of Juventus FC competes with Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Cagliari Calcio at Allianz Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The promising defender will face the club that still own his registration rights, Atalanta.
Last summer, La Dea sent the 20-year-old to Cagliari on a dry loan deal. The Sardinians were looking for a replacement for Nadir Zortea, who had joined Bologna, and beat competition from Parma.
Roma and Juventus’ interest in Palestra
CAGLIARI, ITALY – OCTOBER 30: Marco Palestra (L) of Cagliari challenges for the ball during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and US Sassuolo Calcio at Stadio Sant’Elia on October 30, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
Palestra is a player that Gian Piero Gasperini mentioned when he was appointed as the new Roma coach last summer, but then the Giallorossi focused on Brazilian right-back Wesley.
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Filip Kostic of Juventus FC in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Even Juventus made an offer to sign Palestra last summer, as we reported on July 22. The Bianconeri were prepared to offer money and Filip Kostic, but Atalanta stood firm and opted to send Palestra on loan to Cagliari, keeping control of the player.
Evan Ferguson scored his first ever goals in European competition with a brace for Roma against Celtic in the Europa League on Thursday night, but it has not all been smooth sailing for the Brighton loanee in the Italian capital.
From his year-long goal drought to rumours of a potential recall, here’s a look at how things have gone for him at the Stadio Olimpico and what the future might hold for the Republic of Ireland international.
Why has Ferguson struggled for consistency at Roma?
Ferguson joined Roma on loan with an option to buy, rumored to be for a fee in the region of €40m towards the end of the summer transfer window.
Official: Evan Ferguson joins Roma on loan with an option to buy from Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion (picture via www.asroma.com)
This is his second consecutive loan stint away from Brighton after an underwhelming spell with West Ham in the second half of the 2024-25 season, during which he failed to score a single competitive goal.
Roma, whose only other natural option at centre-forward is Artem Dovbyk, had been in dire need of attacking additions during the summer transfer window.
Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini made that clear on several occasions: “This is no excuse; it’s just the reality, and we can’t be hypocrites. Take a look at who left and who is missing. It’s just counting,” he said after a pre-season friendly against Kaiserslautern over the summer, just a few weeks before the start of the Serie A season.
In the end, Roma did make more additions before the close of the summer transfer window, Wesley, Daniele Ghilardi, Jan Ziolkowski and a loan deal for Kostas Tsimikas among them, but their only other attacking addition was Leon Bailey on loan from Aston Villa. Due to injury, the Jamaica international has only managed eight competitive appearances since joining Roma in August, only one of which was as a starter.
This means that Ferguson and Dovbyk have been Gasperini’s only natural options at centre-forward this season.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
And with no clear first choice, Gasperini has often rotated his options at centre-forward, with Paulo Dybala, Tommaso Baldanzi and Matias Soule all having been tried in false nine roles at various stages of the 2025-26 season.
It is easy to forget that Ferguson has only recently turned 21, and moving abroad, arriving late in the summer transfer window, and then having to adapt to a new culture, club, league, and style of play, and having the pressure of needing to bounce back after a tough 2024-25 season is not to be underestimated either.
Could Ferguson’s recent goals be the turning point at Roma?
Ferguson finally claimed his first competitive goal in Giallorossi colours on November 23, coming off the bench to grab Roma’s second in an eventual 3-1 win away against Cremonese in Serie A.
This was his first competitive goal in over a year, dating back to Brighton’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on October 26, 2024.
The 21-year-old has since added a European brace to his personal tally for 2025-26, tucking away two very well taken finishes in the first half of a 3-0 Europa League win over Celtic on Thursday night.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
It wasn’t just his finishing, but his movement and overall centre-forward play that earned him rave reviews for his performance at Celtic Park.
Football Italia expert Alfredo Pedullà agrees that Ferguson’s performance against Celtic could be the perfect springboard to revitalise his Roma career.
What to make of the recall rumours?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler did not deny those rumours when he spoke at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
“Evan is our player, that’s why he will always be an option,” he said. “Of course, now at the moment he is on loan but we follow him, we are pleased how he performed yesterday. Of course we all follow him, so definitely he might be an option.”
"Evan Ferguson is a player for us and he is always an option"
Fabian Hurzeler discusses the possibility of recalling Evan Ferguson from his loan at Roma and how he hopes that Mohamed Salah 'is not available' for Brighton's away trip against Liverpool pic.twitter.com/5BNG3BgIrq
So, it remains to be seen whether Ferguson will see out the rest of the 2025-26 campaign at the Stadio Olimpico, or whether he will return to Brighton, or perhaps be sent out on loan elsewhere.
What is becoming clear is that the run-up to Christmas and the January transfer window will be pivotal. If the Irishman is able to add another couple of goals to his record before then, it starts to look like a completely different situation.
And, if goals do start to become more of a regular occurrence, it begs the question, would Roma be able to find a guaranteed improvement, fit and ready to play, during the January transfer window with a tight budget and financial fair play regulations still to adhere to? It would certainly take quite the pull from Gasperini and Ricky Massara.
Evan Ferguson’s brace against Celtic might be a turning point for the Republic of Ireland international, but Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini will still need reinforcements in January.
Ferguson finally unlocked himself in the Europa League, scoring a fine brace away at Celtic and showing the movements of a true centre-forward.
Possible Ferguson turning point at Roma
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Gasperini had motivated and pushed him on the eve of the match, and he was repaid in the best possible way. Ferguson is a young player; he’s coming back from an injury and has undeniable quality. Gasperini demands consistency and intensity from him.
Under Gasp, static centre-forwards will never be quite successful, and Thursday’s performance in Glasgow might be a turning point.
Gasperini’s transfer requests to Roma
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND – APRIL 01: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on as he walks out of the tunnel to inspect the pitch prior to during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest FC and Manchester United FC at City Ground on April 01, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Gasperini could agree to part ways with one of his centre-forwards to sign another one, provided that he gets a plug-in player and not another gamble like the one proposed to him at the end of August.
After the 3-0 win over Celtic, Gasperini didn’t want to go deeper into transfer market matters; as it’s an issue that has bothered him since last summer.
Italy have stepped even further clear of Spain, but are still locked in a battle with Germany for an additional spot in next season’s Champions League after the conclusion of Thursday night’s Europa and Conference League ties.
It was a step in the right direction for Italy’s hopes of securing an additional Champions League spot for 2026-27, as all the Serie A representatives secured victories on Thursday night.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Matias Soule of AS Roma celebrates with teammates, after Liam Scales of Celtic (not pictured) concedes an own goal resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Where Italy stands in race for extra Champions League spot
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: The UEFA Champions League trophy is cleaned as it is displayed on a plinth at the side of the pitch prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and Feyenoord at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The situation leaves Italy in third place in the UEFA seasonal association coefficient rankings. This is what is used to determine which two nations receive an additional Champions League spot.
The UEFA tables are expected to be officially updated on Friday, but figures provided by Sky Sport Italia show that Italy will be in third place on 11.071 points, behind Germany in second on 11.660 points and England in first with 13.166 points.
Spain are in fourth with 10.609 points, with Portugal slightly behind them in fifth on 10.600 points.
Gian Piero Gasperini insists that patience is the key for Evan Ferguson and Roma’s young players after their 3-0 victory away against Celtic in the Champions League on Thursday evening: ‘You play against different sorts of teams in Europe compared to Italy’.
The Giallorossi got back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory away against Celtic in Europe on Thursday evening: An own goal from Liam Scales sending them ahead after six minutes, which was added to by a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson. Those were the Irishman’s first goals in European competition.
Gasperini reacts to Celtic 0-3 Roma: ‘It’s never easy to win away’
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Matias Soule of AS Roma celebrates with teammates, after Liam Scales of Celtic (not pictured) concedes an own goal resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“It’s never easy to win away, on these beautiful, historic pitches,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia after full-time.
“Pisilli, Ferguson and all the other changes put in good performances. They give us an option to expand the squad. This is a moment in which we need to make important assessments, and we have to make them in games that matter.
“Playing here isn’t easy. They were coming off a series of victories. You have to play against different sorts of teams in Europe compared to in Italy. As a result, you can end up against very strong strikers. It’s a different type of football in Europe.”
Gasperini was asked what he made of Ferguson’s performance. The 21-year-old is on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion with a hefty option to buy, but there have already been suggestions that Roma could look to terminate his deal ahead of schedule. A brace this evening is a step in the right direction, though.
“During the game. he did what he often does in training. He’s a young lad and we have to be patient,” Gasperini said. “His second goal was beautiful. His performance was great, and it’s important that he plays with this spirit and shows his qualities.”
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
And on Roma’s potential business in the January transfer window, Gasperini added: “We have to be patient. These young guys could come good. Maybe it’s better that way rather than relying on the market. We’ll talk about the January window moving forwards, now, we have several important games to play.”
How will Roma cope with losing Neil El Aynaoui and Evan Ndicka for the Africa Cup of Nations?
“We’ll know (when they’ll leave) tomorrow, both for El Aynaoui and Ndicka. We would like to have them with us for the game against Como, but either way, we will have other matches where we’re left without two key figures. We’ve seen tonight that they’re both important. I’m happy for Pisilli in midfield, he’s growing and doing well. I’m happy for him.”
Evan Ferguson and Matias Soule were among the standout performers during Roma’s 3-0 victory over Celtic in Glasgow in the Europa League on Thursday evening, a result which has sent the Giallorossi into 10th place in the league table.
An own-goal from Liam Scales six minutes in followed by a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson were enough for Roma to claim a comfortable victory, despite a missed penalty from Arne Engels and each side having a goal ruled out for offside in the second half.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Liam Scales of Celtic concedes an own goal, resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Best Celtic player: Kelechi Iheanacho 6 – Celtic’s game only really got going in the second half, when they were already 3-0 down and after a triple substitution at the break. Iheanacho, recently returned from injury, was a bright spark for the hosts when he came on and looked determined to get his name on the scoresheet. He will be frustrated to have seen his effort ruled out for offside 65 minutes in. Who knows, there might have been enough time left for Celtic to make Roma start feeling uneasy at that point.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic scores his team a goal as Mile Svilar of AS Roma fails to make a save, which is disallowed following a VAR review during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Coach: Wilfrid Nancy 5 – A night to forget on his first European match in charge of Celtic. Enormously frustrating for him to see his side go 1-0 down through a set-piece six minutes in, and it then seemed difficult for the hosts to match Celtic’s intensity. Too many slip-ups on the ball and in their own half, which Roma were able to punish.
Best Roma player: Evan Ferguson 7.5 – A really well deserved brace for the Irishman, his first ever goals in European competition, who applied two very well-taken finishes to claim his first-half double. It was an energetic and battling performance from the Giallorossi loanee, who now has three goals in his last five appearances across all competitions. Only two of those have been starts.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Coach: Gian Piero Gasperini 7.5
Despite making wholesale changes and leaving out big names in Paulo Dybala and Manu Kone, Roma were right at it from the off, played with great intensity and did not panic after taking such an early lead in the sixth minute. It was the near-perfect first-half performance, the only fault being the penalty that Mario Hermoso gave away in the dying moments. It was a task in game management in the second half, and Roma will have been relieved to have seen Kelechi Iheanacho’s goal ruled out for offside. Overall, a great response after their disappointment against Cagliari in Serie A over the weekend.
Roma are closing in on a spot in the Europa League knock-out rounds after a largely dominant 3-0 victory away against Celtic in Glasgow on Thursday evening: A Liam Scales own goal and a first-half brace from Evan Ferguson sending Gian Piero Gasperini’s side on their way to victory.
Roma had slipped to two consecutive defeats in Serie A prior to kick-off, their last victory in any competition coming in the 2-1 victory over Midtjylland in November. Gasperini gave Evan Ferguson the nod up front, alongside the club he supported growing up, with Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone and the returning Angelino named among the substitutes.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Liam Scales of Celtic concedes an own goal, resulting in the first goal for AS Roma, during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Zeki Celik won Roma their first corner of the game five minutes in. Gianluca Mancini initially tried to claim that it was his header from Matias Soule’s delivery that took it past Kasper Schmeichel, but replays showed that it was actually a Liam Scales own-goal that sent the Giallorossi into an early lead in Glasgow.
The Giallorossi were the dominant force in the first half, registering eight shots in the opening 45 minutes, three of which were on target. Soule, Stephan El Shaarawy and Nicolo Pisilli all had a go midway through the first period.
Their lead was doubled 10 minutes before the interval, Zeki Celik was freed on the right-hand side of the area and supplied the perfect low ball in for Ferguson, who just had to steer it in inside the six-yard box for 2-0.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Evan Ferguson of AS Roma scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Gasperini’s side would claim their third on the stroke of half-time following a wonderful passage of possession in the final third. Soule was involved again, providing a brilliantly improvised ball in from the edge of the area, which Ferguson was able to turn in from 10 yards out.
It looked as though the first half’s action was done after that, only for Mario Hermoso to bring down Arne Engels in the area on the following attack.
There were several minutes of protests and delays from the Giallorossi, which saw El Shaarawy and Soule booked, but that might just have worked out in their favour as Engels struck the left upright when he was finally cleared to take the spot-kick.
The hosts elected to make three changes at half-time, and saw an immediate shift in momentum: Kelechi Iheanacho, recently returned from injury, looked bright and determined.
The Nigerian thought he had clawed one back, prodding home in similar fashion to Ferguson in the first half, but he was eventually flagged for a slight offside. 3-0 Roma it remained.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 11: Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic scores his team a goal as Mile Svilar of AS Roma fails to make a save, which is disallowed following a VAR review during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Celtic FC and AS Roma at Celtic Park on December 11, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Roma would also see another chalked off before full-time. Leon Bailey thought he had claimed his first Giallorossi goal with a well taken finish into the far corner inside the area, but he was also punished for an offside in the build-up.
Tonight’s result sees Roma climb up to 10th place in the Europa League table, just one point outside the all-important top eight with two games against Stuttgart and Panathinaikos left to play before the end of the league phase.
AS Roma have officially opened negotiations with Manchester United to sign Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, according to Gazzetta dello Sport. The initialization of the talks follows approval from the Friedkin ownership, aiming to strengthen coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s attack amid poor recent performances and the likely departure of Evan Ferguson. Sporting director Ricky Massara is […]
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Neil El Aynaoui celebrates with his teammates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Ferguson comes in to lead the line alongside Matias Soule and Stephan El Shaarawy against Celtic this evening. Paulo Dybala starts among the substitutes, as do Leon Bailey, Manu Kone and Kostas Tsimikas. Angelino has been declared fit enough for a spot among the substitutes.
Celtic vs. Roma: Confirmed line-ups
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match between AS Roma and FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
José Mourinho admits he would even ‘go to the Circo Massimo’ to celebrate the Serie A title with Roma, but ‘unfortunately’, only Milan, Inter and Napoli will fight for the Scudetto.
Benfica coach Mourinho admits he’d return to Italy to celebrate the Serie A title with Roma fans.
The former Inter and Roma boss was asked his thoughts on the Scudetto race at a post-match press conference last night, after a 2-0 win over Napoli in the Champions League, and, as usual, his reply was very honest.
Mourinho’s Serie A title prediction
LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 05: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between SL Benfica and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at on November 05, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
“It’s tough. Inter have a top team and great potential, same as Napoli. Milan play once a week. They have a fantastic coach like Max [Allegri], who can coach in a way that Antonio [Conte] and Cristian [Chivu] can’t because they have many games to play,” Mourinho argued.
“Unfortunately, I think it will be among these three.”
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: David Neres of Napoli scores his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AS Roma and SSC Napoli at Stadio Olimpico on November 30, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Mourinho has made history with Inter, winning the treble in 2010 with Chivu in his team, so he felt he had to explain why he said ‘unfortunately.’
Mourinho supports Roma in Serie A title race
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 30: José Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between Chelsea FC and SL Benfica at Stamford Bridge on September 30, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
“I’d love it, and I’d even go to the Circo Massimo, but I don’t think so.”
The Circo Massimo is the place where Roma fans usually gather every time the team wins a trophy.
Mourinho knows how it feels to win for the Giallorossi, having lifted the Conference League in 2022.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan have reopened informal talks with Joshua Zirkzee’s agent Kia Joorabchian, but Mauro Icardi and Niclas Füllkrug are also on the Rossoneri’s agenda.
Milan will be looking for a new centre-forward in the January transfer window and according to the latest report from Gazzetta, the Rossoneri have resumed talks with Manchester United striker Zirkzee.
Milan to rival Roma for Zirkzee
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 30: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester United and Leicester City at Old Trafford on October 30, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Milan were already interested in the Dutch striker two years ago, but failed to reach an agreement over agent fees, so Zirkzee eventually moved to Old Trafford from Bologna.
According to the latest report, Milan resumed talks with the player’s representative a few weeks ago.
It is no secret that Zirkzee is also Roma’s top target in attack for January and that the Red Devils would be open to discussing a loan deal with an obligation to buy for €35m.
Two other strikers on Milan’s agenda
Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and West Ham United FC at The King Power Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
According to Gazzetta, however, the Rossoneri would prefer a simple option to buy.
Technically, Milan are looking for a classic centre-forward, but Zirkzee would be an exception because of his technical skills and his knowledge of Serie A.
The pink paper adds that Niclas Füllkrug of West Ham and Mauro Icardi or Galatasaray are also on the Rossoneri’s agenda, but the club’s strategy in the winter transfer window will also depend on Santiago Gimenez, who is still unwilling to leave San Siro next month.
According to Football Insider, AS Roma are the frontrunners in the race for the services of Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. Apparently, the Netherlands international is of strong interest to the Serie A side, while the 20-time English champions remain undecisive about what they should do on that front. Zirkzee was believed to be frustrated […]
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