Roma enter the post-international break period at the top of Serie A, level on 13 points with Inter after five games, but Gian Piero Gasperini faces a significant midfield problem heading into a demanding run of fixtures. Bryan Cristante has been ruled out for up to three weeks with a knee injury, as confirmed by reports, forcing Gasperini to rethink his options in the engine room. The most likely solution, according to analysis from GOAL, is Marten De Roon stepping into a more prominent role, with Nicolo Pisilli also in contention. The injury arrives at a difficult moment, with Roma travelling to Como on October 11 before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League three days later.

Off the pitch, Gasperini has addressed the sale of Alessandro Romano to Cagliari, admitting the midfielder was "sacrificed in the name of the balance sheet". Romano has since earned a Italy call-up and his value has quadrupled, making the decision a source of genuine regret at the club. There are also fitness questions around Donyell Malen, who missed Netherlands duty with a physical problem, with his availability for the Como trip uncertain. Rodrigo Mora, meanwhile, continues to compete with Matias Soulé for a starting role, with Gasperini managing his minutes carefully despite strong performances for Portugal Under-21.