The Roma wing-back will remain at Trigoria after withdrawing from the Brazil squad with a muscular problem, giving Gian Piero Gasperini’s staff time to manage his condition and refine his attacking contribution.
Wesley finished last season in impressive form, establishing himself as one of Roma’s most energetic and influential players. The Brazilian has not yet reproduced those performances consistently during the opening weeks of the new campaign, however.
The international break could therefore arrive at an ideal moment for the 23-year-old. After withdrawing from Brazil duty with discomfort in his right thigh, Wesley will remain at Trigoria and work toward recovering his best physical condition.
The break will also provide an opportunity to improve certain technical details before Roma return to action against Como.
Wesley’s Performance Against Inter
Wesley produced an intense opening 50 minutes during Roma’s 2-2 draw against Inter.
His pace and defensive work helped restrict Federico Dimarco’s influence on the left side, preventing one of Inter’s most dangerous players from controlling the flank during the first half.
Wesley’s performance declined after the interval, however, as Inter increased the pressure. The Brazilian was also involved in the defensive lapse that contributed to the Nerazzurri’s equalizer.
Gasperini’s decision to move him back to the right may have been influenced by both tactical and psychological considerations. Although Wesley has demonstrated his ability to operate on either side, the right flank remains his most natural position.
Injury Interruptions Becoming a Concern
Wesley’s physical condition deserves careful management following several interruptions since his arrival in European football.
The wing-back reportedly suffered six physical problems of varying severity during 2025, resulting in a combined absence of 81 days. The most significant issue arrived shortly before the World Cup and prevented him from representing Brazil.
He returned in time to begin Roma’s summer preparations but has already encountered two further setbacks this season. Wesley was rested for the match in Turin due to an ankle contusion and has now withdrawn from the Brazil squad with a muscular problem in his right thigh.
The latest injury was sustained during the draw against Inter, although Wesley completed the full match. Roma and Brazil subsequently agreed that he should not take any unnecessary risks during the international period.
Eight interruptions across approximately 14 months do not necessarily indicate a serious underlying issue, but their frequency gives Roma a reason to proceed cautiously.
Roma Can Develop a Personalized Program
Three weeks at Trigoria will allow Gasperini’s staff to create a personalized training and recovery program for Wesley.
The objective will be to resolve the muscular problem while improving his overall conditioning ahead of the trip to Como. The break could also help the Brazilian regain the sharpness that made him so important during the second half of last season.
Wesley scored five goals during his first campaign with Roma, demonstrating an ability to arrive in dangerous areas and provide an additional attacking threat.
His availability—or absence—became increasingly noticeable as the season progressed.
Wesley Must Improve His Final Ball
The next stage of Wesley’s development involves becoming more productive in the final third.
He registered two assists last season and has provided one this term, which arrived against Lecce. Those numbers leave room for improvement, particularly given how high Gasperini positions his wing-backs.
Wesley frequently advances beyond Roma’s attacking midfielders and receives possession close to the opposition penalty area. The presence of Donyell Malen should provide further opportunities for crosses, cutbacks and combinations inside the final third.
Improving the timing and precision of his final pass would significantly increase his value to Roma’s attack.
At 23, Wesley still possesses considerable potential. His athleticism, stamina and ability to cover both flanks make him an important part of Gasperini’s plans, but greater physical continuity and more decisive attacking production will be essential if he is to make another step forward.
Source: ANSA, La Gazzetta dello Sport
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