The 18-year-old delivered another encouraging performance against Borussia Dortmund and could convince Roma to redirect funds toward a second attacking reinforcement.
Roma are approaching their Serie A opener against Fiorentina with Emanuele Lulli emerging as one of the biggest surprises of Gian Piero Gasperini’s preseason.
The 2007-born winger was given 76 minutes against Borussia Dortmund after Wesley’s injury and responded with another positive display. It was his biggest test of the summer after previously playing 18 minutes against Cardiff, 20 against Newport and 12 against Brighton, taking his preseason total to 126 minutes.
Against Champions League-level opposition, Lulli showed encouraging signs in both phases while operating predominantly on the right flank.
The youngster recorded three defensive contributions, two interceptions and three recoveries. He also won his only aerial duel and provided significantly more ball progression than Devyne Rensch on the opposite side.
Lulli carried the ball for 54.9 metres, including 37.4 metres toward Dortmund’s goal. Rensch recorded 23.3 and 21.3 metres respectively.
His passing was similarly encouraging. Lulli completed nine of his 11 passes in Roma’s half and seven of eight in the attacking third. He also attempted one shot, which was deflected.
At 184 centimetres, Lulli combines physical presence with the ability to cover ground quickly. Those characteristics appear well suited to what Gasperini demands from his wing-backs. He has also produced five goals and 12 assists during his time in Roma’s youth system.
The question now is whether his emergence could influence Roma’s remaining transfer business.
Sporting director Tony D’Amico continues to work on the final additions to Gasperini’s squad. Rodrigo Mora remains the priority for the attack, while Roma have also been exploring the market for another left-sided wing-back.
Destiny Udogie and Alessio Cacciamani have been among the leading options. Tottenham value Udogie at around €25 million, while Torino have shown considerable resistance to selling Cacciamani.
Lulli’s performances could potentially change that strategy.
Gasperini does not necessarily restrict his wing-backs to one side, which could allow Roma to enter the season with Nahuel Molina, Wesley, Rensch and Lulli covering the wide positions. That would give the club the opportunity to redirect its remaining resources toward the additional attacking reinforcement requested by the coach.
Lulli had been close to joining Avellino on loan earlier in the summer, but Gasperini placed the operation on hold so he could evaluate the youngster during preseason.
So far, Lulli has taken advantage of that opportunity. The final decision now rests with Gasperini over whether the teenager is ready to become a permanent member of Roma’s first-team squad.
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