In a troubling development for Roma and their head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, star midfielder Manu Kone had to leave the pitch due to injury during the first half of the Europa League match against Midtjylland at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening.
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Kone’s Injury Raises Concerns in Roma vs. Midtjylland Match
The Giallorossi started strong with an early goal from Neil El Aynaoui, who skillfully directed Zeki Celik’s cross into the bottom corner just seven minutes into the match.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Neil El Aynaoui of AS Roma celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD5 match against FC Midtjylland at Stadio Olimpico on November 27, 2025. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
However, just moments later, Kone went down in the 13th minute following a challenge with Ousmane Diao, remaining on the ground until play was stopped.
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Video replays indicated that Diao had inadvertently struck the inside of Kone’s heel, prompting him to twist his ankle.
After receiving medical attention on the field, Kone initially managed to continue playing for another 15 minutes before being substituted in the 27th minute, with Italy international Bryan Cristante coming on in his place.