Gian Piero Gasperini, the head coach of Roma, has expressed concerns about a notable issue in the new formats for the Conference, Europa, and Champions League. Due to the current regulations, he is unable to field his recent signings for the crucial match against Panathinaikos on Thursday, stating, ‘Changes will need to be made.’
Gasperini: UEFA regulations ‘must be reconsidered’
As Roma prepares for Thursday’s pivotal fixture against Panathinaikos, they find themselves in sixth place in the Europa League standings. A win would secure the Giallorossi a place in the round of 16, but it remains uncertain if a draw will suffice to maintain a spot in the top eight.
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In his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Gasperini addressed the inability to utilize recent acquisitions, Donyell Malen and Robinio Vaz, during the upcoming match.
Donyell Malen showcases his Roma shirt after joining the team on loan from Aston Villa (image via www.asroma.com).
This limitation arises because teams are prohibited from modifying their UEFA squad lists after the league phase concludes.
Previously, clubs had the opportunity to update their UEFA rosters after the group stage, which typically ended in December. Conversely, the current structure allows updates only after the league phase wraps up, generally at the end of January, when the transfer window is already well underway.
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Gasperini remarked on Thursday, “The transfer window has been open since January 1st, yet changes to your squad list in Europe aren’t permitted.”
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini observes the action during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico on January 18, 2026, in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
“This concern arises from the new format, which is still in its second year. Clearly, adjustments need to be made,” he continued. “There’s a genuine risk of arriving at crucial matches, such as tomorrow’s, without all your players since some have left and others have joined. This is an area that definitely warrants attention.”
Click here to read Gasperini’s complete pre-match conference