Roma’s director, Ricky Massara, is optimistic that tonight’s match against Napoli will bring a long-awaited victory in crucial games. He also reassured that Paulo Dybala’s recent injury ‘will not impact’ contract negotiations.
The match kicks off at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona at 19:45 GMT (20:45 CET).
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Catch all the build-up and live action from today’s Serie A matches on the Liveblog.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 30: Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma controls the ball under pressure from Sam Beukema of Napoli during the Serie A match at Stadio Olimpico on November 30, 2025. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The Giallorossi understand this is a significant chance to secure a top-four finish and even close the gap with Napoli in third place, following Juventus’ recent 3-2 loss to Inter.
In their previous meeting earlier this season at Stadio Olimpico, Napoli won 1-0.
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Massara Seeks Roma Turning Point
WALSALL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 06: Frederic Massara, Sporting Director of AS Roma, observes ahead of the pre-season friendly against Aston Villa at Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium on August 06, 2025. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
“We acknowledge that we have struggled in major matches, but our performances have never faltered in those encounters. We hope to continue with solid displays, trusting that winning results will follow,” Massara stated in an interview with DAZN Italia.
Absent from the trip are Dybala, Manu Kone, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, and Stephan El Shaarawy, with Matias Soulé and Mario Hermoso also not fully fit, paving the way for Bryan Zaragoza to make his first start.
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Could the team’s poor fitness be a reason for hesitation in securing a new deal for the Argentine star?
“Dybala is integral to any team; his talent is exceptional. It’s unfortunate he’s facing another unexpected injury, as he would have been a great asset in this match. I assure you, it won’t influence contract negotiations,” Massara affirmed.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 22: Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini observes during the UEFA Europa League match against VfB Stuttgart at Stadio Olimpico on January 22, 2026. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
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Were there discussions over the weekend regarding rumored tension between Massara and coach Gian Piero Gasperini?
“We were all watching last night’s game together. Our relationship is strong. It’s important to remember that Roma is undergoing a significant transformation; we’ve added 10 new players compared to last season, highlighting the changes made. The coach is skillfully shaping this new team, and we’re very pleased with his progress,” Massara responded.
ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 22: Niccolò Pisilli celebrates scoring the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League match against VfB Stuttgart at Stadio Olimpico on January 22, 2026. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
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Nicolò Pisilli earns a rare start in midfield over Neil El Aynaoui—does this indicate his rise within the first team?
“Pisilli has demonstrated his talent in previous seasons and is now reaching his peak. He possesses goal-scoring instinct, tactical awareness, and defensive capabilities. We believe he is set to become a significant player for both Roma and Italy for many years ahead,” Massara concluded.