Roma's injury-hit squad for the Europa League Round of 16 — missing Dybala, Dovbyk, Ferguson and Soule, with Mancini suspended — suggests a weakened attack and defensive reshuffle. Punters might back Bologna to score and consider both-teams-to-score or Roma +0.5 Asian handicap rather than backing Roma to win outright.
Roma squad named for Europa League Round of 16 first leg vs Bologna
Roma have announced their squad for the Europa League Round of 16 first leg at Stadio Dall’Ara on Thursday, 17:45 GMT (18:45 CET). Several key absences reshape expectations for the tie and force tactical adjustments from the coach.
Major injury blows and absences
Attack hit hard
Matias Soulé is omitted as he continues to recover from inflammation. Paulo Dybala, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson remain long-term absentees, leaving Roma light in forward options and increasing reliance on the available attackers.
Defensive shake-up
Gianluca Mancini is suspended for the first leg, placing added pressure on the back line. Mario Hermoso is included in the squad after completing training but his starting role is uncertain, leaving defensive selection up in the air.
Tactical tweaks and projected XI
Bryan Zaragoza is tipped to start in support of Donyell Malen, while Bryan Cristante could be pushed into a more advanced role to compensate for the missing forwards. Manu Koné and Niccolò Pisilli are expected to operate in midfield, a setup that may see Lorenzo Pellegrini on the bench.
Managerial choices to watch
With attack options limited, the coach may favour a compact midfield and quicker transitions, relying on Malen for finishing and Zaragoza for support. Defensive caution is likely given Mancini’s suspension and Hermoso’s uncertain status.
Match context and implications
The combination of attacking absences and defensive disruption makes Roma more vulnerable than usual, especially away from home. Bologna can target space behind Roma’s reconfigured defence, while Roma will look to protect the backline and make the most of set-piece and counter opportunities.
Betting considerations
Given Roma’s weakened forward line and a suspended key defender, consider markets that account for a tighter, uncertain outcome: both-teams-to-score or Bologna to find the net are plausible.
Gasperini confirms Ferguson blow, denies Totti rumours: ‘Never’
Roma +0.5 Asian handicap could be a safer alternative to backing an outright Roma win.
Football Italia
