Roma face a contract crunch and key absences — Dybala and El Shaarawy sidelined with new signing Bryan Zaragoza only on the bench. Betting angle: with Roma weakened and Cagliari on a strong run, punters might prefer a draw or Cagliari double chance, or take Roma +1 Asian handicap as a safer option.
Massara demands "definitive" contract decisions as Roma plot the future
Roma director Ricky Massara has urged the club to make clear, decisive calls on a number of expiring contracts as the Giallorossi balance short-term results with long-term planning. Massara said the club must sit down with agents to explore possibilities and reach agreements, insisting that all players with running-down deals “have never lacked in their commitment and professionalism.”
Who is affected: Dybala, Pellegrini, Celik and El Shaarawy
Reports suggest Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini could face pay-cut discussions if new deals are to be agreed. Zeki Celik and Stephan El Shaarawy are also out of contract on June 30, placing several senior figures at the centre of this evaluation process. Massara emphasised the club’s intent to do “what is best for Roma” while remaining open to negotiations.
Totti returns to the stands amid talk of a future role
Club legend Francesco Totti was again present at the stadium, sparking fresh speculation about a potential off-field role. Massara acknowledged Totti’s status, calling him “the history of this club,” and noted that any decision about working together would be taken by the club when the time is right.
Team news: absences, debuts and protective masks
Bryan Zaragoza, the new signing, is named on the bench as he awaits a possible debut. Several key players are unavailable: Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz, Mario Hermoso, Manu Koné, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy are out of action. Gianluca Mancini, recovering from recent surgery for a broken nose, is available but expected to wear a protective mask.
Recent form and context ahead of the clash
Roma have an opportunity to climb back into a joint fourth spot with Juventus after Juve were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio. The visitors, however, are no pushovers: Cagliari arrive on a three-game winning run that includes victories over Juventus, Fiorentina and Hellas Verona, and they beat Roma 1-0 on December 7 in a match that saw Zeki Celik sent off.
Betting implications and tactical impact
Roma’s combination of contract uncertainty and key absences could blunt their attacking edge. Zaragoza’s presence on the bench hints at gradual integration rather than an instant fix.
For bettors, the safest play may be to avoid backing Roma as firm favourites: consider a draw or Cagliari double-chance, or an Asian handicap bet like Roma +1 for risk-averse punters.
Expect a cautious tactical setup from Roma, which could depress scoring and make under markets attractive.
What to watch during the match
Keep an eye on how Roma adapt without several front-line options and whether Mancini’s masked return affects defensive stability.
Watch Zaragoza’s minutes if he is introduced and how the midfield manages transitions without key starters.
The outcome will tell whether Roma can mask contract turbulence with on-field focus or if squad disruption hands momentum to Cagliari.
Roma make final Dybala decision for Cagliari clash
Roma director Ricky Massara admits it is time for ‘definitive’ decisions on new contracts for Paulo Dybala and others, while Francesco Totti is again present. ‘We want what is best for Roma.’I...
Yahoo! News
