The atmosphere at the Olimpico was electric, with the stadium sold out and expectations sky-high. Yet, reality hit hard with a disappointing loss against Torino, casting a spotlight on some deep-rooted challenges afflicting Roma this season. Behind the scenes, summer market maneuvers and player fitness issues have profoundly influenced the team’s current struggles—and intensified speculation about potential January moves.
One of the most controversial decisions came from coach Gasperini, who surprisingly excluded Artem Dovbyk from the Torino match lineup. Dovbyk, a €30 million signing meant to be Roma’s leading striker this season, found himself sidelined not just for that game but seemingly from the coach’s plans altogether. Gasperini openly admitted post-match that he hadn’t intended to use Dovbyk during the game, a remark that sent shockwaves among fans and pundits, sparking intense social media debate and painting a grim picture of the Ukrainian forward’s future at the club.
This tactical decision ties back directly to last summer’s frantic transfer deadline day activity. Roma nearly pulled off a blockbuster swap: sending Dovbyk to AC Milan in exchange for Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez. The 23-year-old Mexican striker had dazzled last season with 23 goals in 30 appearances and represented a more dynamic fit for Gasperini’s style. Unfortunately, logistical hurdles—paperwork, evaluations, and the ticking clock of the transfer deadline—derailed the deal. Milan, desperate for a striker after Alvaro Morata’s injury, and Roma, eager to move on from a player the coach seemed hesitant to use, couldn’t finalize terms in time. The fallout? Dovbyk remains stuck at Roma, sidelined and unwanted, while Gimenez stayed in the Netherlands—a missed chance that now deeply affects Roma’s squad balance.
Adding to Roma’s woes is the injury to Paulo Dybala, forced off at halftime during the Torino match. What initially appeared to be a minor muscle issue was confirmed as a muscle lesion, sidelining him for at least two weeks. This absence means Dybala will miss crucial fixtures including the highly anticipated derby and Europa League clash against Nice. Meanwhile, Leon Bailey, signed on loan from Aston Villa, has yet to make his debut after suffering an injury on his very first day of training at Trigoria. His recovery is complicated by the loan terms and medical protocols requiring coordination with Villa, further delaying his return.
In this context of injuries and strategic deadlock, the January transfer window looms large with promises of potential relief. Artem Dovbyk, despite his exclusion, holds a market value near €30 million, and Roma might be compelled to facilitate his departure to clear the path forward. Among the names circling as a resolution to Roma’s midfield revitalization is Davide Frattesi. A product of Roma’s own youth academy, Frattesi currently plays at Inter Milan but faces uncertain prospects under the new regime led by Cristian Chivu. Not satisfied with his playing time, and with Inter reportedly setting his price between €30-35 million, Frattesi’s homecoming is a tantalizing possibility.
The romance of Frattesi’s return lies not just in his talent—a versatile, goal-capable midfielder well-versed in Serie A’s demands—but also in his narrative. He would be coming back to his roots, potentially strengthening Roma at a critical juncture. The complexities of this potential transfer might find a solution in a swap deal involving Nicola Zalewski, who is still temporarily with Inter. Resolving this puzzle requires clever financial and contractual navigation, but Roma’s management appears seriously engaged in these talks.
As Roma approaches the derby, a match loaded with historic significance, the absence of key offensive players puts enormous pressure on Gasperini and the squad. The current attacking lineup looks depleted—with Dybala out, Dovbyk on the sidelines, and Bailey’s arrival delayed—forcing tactical improvisation in one of the season’s most important fixtures.
Reflecting on these challenges, it’s clear Roma’s summer strategy faltered, resulting in a “cantiere aperto” — an open construction site of sorts, where the team is still searching for its identity and cohesion. The coaching staff, players, and management are learning from early setbacks, trying to forge a clear plan for the future. The unresolved Dovbyk saga, injuries to pivotal players, and the missed market opportunity with Gimenez all hint at the need for precision and decisiveness in imminent transfer dealings.
January represents not just a transfer window but a chance at rebirth. If Roma successfully moves on from Dovbyk, secures Frattesi’s acquisition, and sees Bailey’s return to fitness, the squad could transform dramatically. Football cycles through phases, and historically, Roma has never backed down from difficult moments. The club possesses the economic means, a knowledgeable coaching staff, and a passionate fan base eager for a turnaround.
For now, patience and strategic acuity will be Roma’s guiding lights. Fans remain hopeful that the disappointments of these months will catalyze wiser decisions and a stronger, more competitive Roma in the months ahead. The story of this season is still being written, and with January on the horizon, the possibility of redemption—and a resurgence—is very much alive.
Forza Roma!
—————————————————-
Are you tired of the 9-to-5 grind? Unlock the secrets to online income generation. GetIncomeNow.com is your roadmap to financial freedom. We reveal proven methods, insider tips, and cutting-edge strategies to help you achieve your income goals. Start your journey to financial independence today!