Bologna is set to face Roma under challenging circumstances as both teams prepare their starting lineups for the upcoming fixture. Roma’s coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, faces a notable injury crisis in the attacking department, affecting the probable formation and player availability.
Gasperini acknowledged the difficulty posed by the loss of five key attackers, including El Shaarawy and Dybala, profoundly impacting offensive options. The coach emphasized the ongoing efforts to manage limited resources and integrate new arrivals like Zaragoza, who joined less than a month ago and is beginning to adapt physically and tactically.
Roma’s Attacking Dilemma and Tactical Adjustments
The injury crisis has forced Roma to rethink the structure behind their main striker, Donyell Malen, who remains a pivotal attacking figure. Multiple reports indicate Gasperini might deploy Bryan Cristante and Bryan Zaragoza in attacking midfield roles to provide crucial support. This rotation aims to offset the absence of injured forwards like Dovbyk, Ferguson, Soulé, and Dybala.
Gasperini also highlighted the challenges new players face when joining mid-season, underscoring that it takes time to settle physically and mentally. He expressed confidence in Zaragoza’s abilities, noting a recent assist as evidence of his potential contribution going forward. Lorenzo Venturino, despite returning to fitness, remains unavailable for UEFA matches and does not appear on the official list.
Defensive and Midfield Changes in the Probable Lineup
Mario Hermoso’s anticipated return could bolster Roma’s defense, particularly with Gianluca Mancini sidelined due to suspension. Hermoso’s fitness, however, is still being assessed following limited training sessions. If fielded, he is expected to either start with possible substitution or come off the bench depending on match dynamics.
Roma’s likely defensive setup involves Ghilardi and Ndicka flanking Hermoso in a back three. Should Hermoso be unable to start, Zeki Çelik is projected to shift deeper into defense, providing an opportunity for Devyne Rensch to operate on the flank opposite Wesley. This reshuffling reflects Gasperini’s flexibility in maximizing the squad amid injury concerns.
In midfield, Niccoló Pisilli is expected to start alongside Manu Koné. The choice to push Cristante further forward allows Pisilli to anchor the central midfield alongside Koné, maintaining balance and covering defensive responsibilities while enabling Cristante to contribute creatively.
Projected Starting XI for Roma (3-4-2-1 Formation):
- Svilar (Goalkeeper)
- Ghilardi (Center-back)
- Ndicka (Center-back)
- Hermoso (Center-back)
- Çelik (Right wing-back)
- Koné (Central midfield)
- Pisilli (Central midfield)
- Wesley (Left wing-back)
- Zaragoza (Attacking midfield)
- Cristante (Attacking midfield)
- Malen (Striker)
Roma’s lineup shows adaptability under considerable injury pressure and highlights Gasperini’s strategic management of his playing resources. The integration of recent signings and the return of Hermoso could provide much-needed stability.
Bologna, on their part, will need to prepare for this restructured and wounded, yet still competitive Roma squad. Monitoring the deployment of attacking midfielders and how the defensive reshuffle impacts Roma’s shape will be key to understanding their approach to the match.
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