Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that Paulo Dybala will miss Roma’s trip to Udinese, with the Argentine still struggling to complete his recovery from injury.
Speaking after the Giallorossi’s 4–2 victory over Cagliari, the Roma coach suggested Sassuolo as a possible return date for both Dybala and Manu Koné, while stressing that neither target is certain.
Gasperini also praised his squad’s response to fatigue and absences, highlighting the contributions of Roma’s youngsters and goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.
Dybala ruled out of Udinese
Asked in his post-match press conference whether Dybala would be available at Udine, Gasperini gave a clear answer.
“No. I was confident because I had seen a training session on Sunday and another on Monday. He is taking longer and longer to recover from injuries. We thought that would be enough, but he still hasn’t recovered, and that forces us to take things as they come.
“We put forward hypothetical dates — let’s say Sassuolo for him and Koné — and we’ll see whether that will be possible.”
The update means Roma must continue without Dybala for their next league match. Sassuolo is now a tentative target rather than a confirmed comeback date for either player.
Gasperini praises Roma for winning through fatigue
Speaking to DAZN, Gasperini acknowledged that Roma had struggled physically against Cagliari, particularly after repeatedly relying on the same midfielders.
“This is absolutely fine. Without doubt, tonight we had some players struggling who hadn’t recovered as well as possible. They were fresher up front and caused us problems.
“In midfield, we have always played with the same players for 90 minutes in recent matches, and the fatigue showed. Winning is to our credit, thanks to the substitutions and everyone’s determination. After going 1–0 down, we had a good spell, as we did towards the end.”
In his press conference, he explained that defensive changes had also been restricted by the condition of Leonardo Balerdi and Mario Hermoso.
“It happens when you are playing your sixth consecutive match every three days: you can have some tired players after important performances. Fortunately, we have plenty of resources, and we have to understand that with so many matches we need to rotate.
“Unfortunately, Balerdi and Hermoso couldn’t play, having come out of the Napoli match with a few knocks. We should get them back. Winning these kinds of games is an even greater achievement.
“We have been playing with the same players for I don’t know how many matches. Cristante himself, who hasn’t fully recovered yet, has played two matches. Scoring those kinds of goals shows great strength — that is what I focus on.”
Gollini earns glowing praise
Gasperini singled out Gollini’s performances in Mile Svilar’s absence, recalling their previous work together and praising the goalkeeper’s development.
“If he wasn’t a quality goalkeeper, he wouldn’t have played 112 matches under me. He also played in the Champions League and achieved important things.
“He is a different person now. Back then, he was much younger and more exuberant; perhaps he had less willingness to work, which was a shame. He also became the national team’s third-choice goalkeeper.
“We found ourselves together again here. I never had any doubts about his ability. We straightened a few things out, and for a year and a half he has trained extremely well. I’m happy for him.
“I always point out to him that he is extraordinary from close range, but occasionally concedes from distance, which has always been a bit of a weakness. But he is a goalkeeper of great quality.”
Lulli and Pisilli embody Roma’s academy spirit
Asked about Emanuele Lulli and Niccolò Pisilli combining for Roma’s second goal, Gasperini praised both their ability and their connection to the club.
“They are extraordinary lads. The youth academy always produces some wonderful talents. What strikes me is that there are boys with a great attachment to Roma, which gives them that dream of making their debut.
“Lulli and Pisilli are two very young players of real quality. Lulli was practising headers yesterday and scored with his head. It isn’t his strongest attribute, but he was extraordinary!”
There was also encouragement for Daniele Ghilardi, whose progress is earning him greater opportunities.
“Ghilardi has already played some excellent matches recently. He should have come on earlier, but it was difficult to make that change at that moment.
“He is doing well and has improved a lot. He will get more and more playing time.”
Mora becoming an increasingly dangerous option
Rodrigo Mora’s goal provided another example of the young Portuguese attacker’s growing influence.
Gasperini praised his heading technique before explaining how the forward has responded to competition for places.
“I had seen his goals for Porto, similar to tonight’s. He is small, but he is coordinated and jumps well. He really struck the ball well. He is almost stationary and whips his head through it — it’s a great goal!”
In his press conference, he added:
“I have the good fortune of watching training, and I make decisions based on that. He has reacted in the best possible way to not playing in some matches or playing less.
“He has that quickness, but he still needs to develop athletically and physically to start matches or play for 90 minutes. Used like this, he is a real wildcard.
“He is developing compared with the start of the season. The headed goal, despite his height, demonstrates that. He jumped high and went looking for the goal inside the penalty area. Those are signs.”
Roma sharing the goals and responsibility
Asked whether Roma’s increased scoring output was primarily down to Donyell Malen, Gasperini stressed the importance of contributions throughout the team.
“Malen is extraordinary and fundamental, but we are scoring through everyone. Thirteen more goals than last year after nine rounds is a significant number.”
For the coach, the victory over Cagliari reflected a squad in which players feel capable of making a difference, whether starting or coming off the bench.
“It is hugely rewarding, and I am very happy with these lads. All of them, without exception, are happy when they play and make decisive contributions.
“Every match matters, and these qualities come through. Everyone in the squad is involved and decisive, including Gollini. That is one of our strengths.”
Source: Gian Piero Gasperini’s post-match comments to DAZN and press conference.
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