AS Roma has officially unveiled its squad for the upcoming Europa League Round of 16 encounter with Bologna. The team list reveals several prominent absences, including Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, and the suspended Gianluca Mancini, though defender Mario Hermoso makes a welcome return to the lineup.
The crucial first leg of this tie is scheduled for Thursday, taking place at the Stadio Dall’Ara with a kick-off time of 17:45 GMT (18:45 CET).
The Giallorossi continue to grapple with an extensive injury crisis that has plagued the squad for weeks, with a significant number of these issues affecting their offensive options.
Squad Updates: Absences and Returns
Consequently, key attackers Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk, and Evan Ferguson remain unavailable due to long-term injuries. Matias Soulé is also conspicuously absent from the squad once more, as he continues his recovery from an ongoing inflammation.
On a more positive note for Roma’s coach, defender Mario Hermoso successfully completed the most recent training session and has been included in the squad. His place in the starting XI, however, is yet to be confirmed.
The defensive line faces additional pressure for the first leg, as Gianluca Mancini is serving a suspension for this crucial Europa League encounter.
Reports suggest that Bryan Zaragoza is likely to start, playing a supporting role for Donyell Malen. There is also speculation that Bryan Cristante could be deployed in a more advanced midfield position.
This tactical shift would potentially see Manu Koné and Niccolò Pisilli anchoring the midfield, with captain Lorenzo Pellegrini starting from the bench.
