Roma’s season hangs in the balance as they rely on key players like Donyell Malen and Lorenzo Pellegrini in a crucial encounter against Lecce, a team increasingly threatened by relegation.
The match is set to kick off at the Stadio Olimpico.
The Giallorossi have endured a challenging period, exiting the Coppa Italia and recently being eliminated from the Europa League Round of 16 after extra time against Bologna. Their Serie A form has also dipped, with just one point from their last three matches, causing them to slide to sixth place.
A significant part of Roma’s struggles can be attributed to a growing injury list, including Matias Soulé, Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk, and Evan Ferguson. Midfielder Manu Koné will also be sidelined for a month due to a thigh strain sustained during the 4-3 extra-time loss to Bologna. Adding to their woes, Zeki Celik is a late absentee with a muscular issue.
On the suspension front, Wesley will miss the game following his controversial red card, although Evan Ndicka returns from his ban, offering some relief. Donyell Malen has been a rare positive light for Roma, netting eight goals in 11 competitive appearances since his arrival in January. Lorenzo Pellegrini and Nicolo Pisilli are expected to provide crucial support.
Lecce also faces considerable challenges, having lost three of their last four Serie A games. This poor run has left them precariously close to the relegation zone, especially after Cremonese’s unexpected victory over Parma yesterday.
In better news for Lecce, Lameck Banda, who was stretchered off with breathing difficulties during their 2-1 defeat to Napoli, has been cleared to play and is back in the starting XI. However, Riccardo Sottil joins Lassana Coulibaly, Medon Berisha, Francesco Camarda, and Kialonda Gaspar on the injury table.
This match holds particular significance for Eusebio Di Francesco, a former Roma midfielder and coach, who now manages Lecce.
Official Lineups
Roma:
Svilar, Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso; Rensch, El Aynaoui, Cristante, Tsimikas; Pisilli, Pellegrini; Malen
Lecce:
Falcone; Veiga, Siebert, Gabriel, Gallo; Ramadani, Ngom; Pierotti, Gandelman, Banda; Stulic
