Key Highlights
- Roma faces a critical third-place battle against Udinese.
- Gian Piero Gasperini must navigate without several key players.
- Neil El Aynaoui returns to the squad and could be pivotal.
- Robinio Vaz, a young striker, may influence Roma’s late-game strategy.
Roma’s Uphill Battle: Holding Onto Third Place Against Udinese
Rome, Italy – The Serie A table is tightening as we approach the critical stretch of the season. For AS Roma, the task against Udinese on Monday night at Bluenergy Stadium is clear and demanding. The Giallorossi must show up, impose their will, and secure a result that keeps them comfortably in third place—a position they’ve strived for throughout.
Missing Pieces: Gasperini’s Handicapped Squad
Roma’s squad has been significantly thinned by injuries and international commitments. Gian Piero Gasperini, the coach, is faced with an uphill battle to build a coherent attack without Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Stephan El Shaarawy, and Manu Koné. The tactical formation will likely revolve around a 3-4-2-1 setup designed for control.
Bryan Cristante will anchor the midfield, while Lorenzo Pellegrini and Matías Soulé aim to provide creative spark. Donyell Malen, crucial in recent matches, is expected to continue his role as the goal scorer.
El Aynaoui’s Return: A Midfield Pillar
Neil El Aynaoui, after a stellar performance for Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations and his return from injury, could be the midfield anchor Roma desperately needs. In this match, El Aynaoui will likely play alongside Bryan Cristante to create advantages by playing through pressure rather than around it. His psychological boost—coming back as a hero and target for major clubs—may translate into sharper decision-making on the pitch.
Vaz’s Late-Game Impact: Compressing Opponents
Robinio Vaz, Roma’s new attacking option, is set to play his first Serie A match since joining from Olympique de Marseille. His role as a late-game substitute could significantly alter the final third of matches. Vaz’s profile—energetic pressing and channel-running—can add verticality and chaos, creating more defensive confusion.
While he may not yet be rewarded with goals, his ability to compress space and force defenders into errors is crucial.
The match against Udinese is about more than just points; it’s about maintaining focus under pressure. Roma must impose their tempo early and keep their composure when the game tries to become something smaller.
Conclusion
Roma faces a tough test in Udine, but with El Aynaoui back and Vaz ready to make his debut, they have tools to win ugly if necessary. The key will be maintaining discipline and imposing their control from the outset. As the season tightens, every match is crucial for Roma’s chances of securing third place.