​Gian Piero Gasperini spoke to Radio Anch’io Sport on Roma’s first day of preseason, sharing his thoughts on a range of topics that interest fans and analysts alike. He touched on the performances of Manu Kone and Donyell Malen at the World Cup and offered his perspective on their futures within their respective teams.
On Malen, Gasperini noted the demanding nature of a full-year schedule. “Malen? These players train and compete twelve months a year, and not all arrived at the World Cup in peak condition,” he said. “It’s not easy to sustain the highest level after a long, exhausting season.” He added that a player’s value often mirrors that of his team, observing that Malen reflects the Netherlands’ overall performances. While there had previously been questions about his positional role, Gasperini believes Malen’s best position remains close to the goal, even though he is capable of playing further out.
Turning to Kone, Gasperini contrasted his situation with Malen’s. “Kone, unlike Malen, faced a period of injury and arrived at the World Cup in better physical shape,” he explained. Last year, Kone hadn’t yet featured for France, but he earned a starting spot at the tournament, which Gasperini took as a testament to his true value and potential.
Regarding Kone’s future, Gasperini acknowledged the complexities of Financial Fair Play regulations, noting that they are not uniform and vary from club to club. He pointed out that Roma, like many teams, must balance the books after several challenging years. Although a return to the Champions League would be ideal, he understands that financial statements and fiscal prudence are crucial for a club’s stability. He anticipated greater clarity in the coming weeks as clubs align on economic realities.
The Fiorentina manager also commented on the forthcoming arrival of the Friedkin family and underscored how their involvement will shape Roma’s next steps. He emphasized that the transfer market operates with speed and decisive action, citing January as a precedent for rapid moves. The owners’ presence, he suggested, will be instrumental in driving squad improvements and in maintaining the city’s excitement, especially after a surge of season-ticket sales in a short period.
Gasperini indicated that the team would enjoy a brief summer respite, but that commencement of serious work would begin in earnest in the near future. He emphasized that the 2026/27 season was approaching, signaling that the previous campaign had concluded. While the league and the Champions League remain the most exhilarating aspects of football, Gasperini cautioned against overemphasizing national team fixtures at the expense of domestic competition, warning that a crowded schedule could detract from the quality and focus of league play.
He also touched on Totti, suggesting that the conversation centers on the relationship between the club’s owners and Totti as the Centenary plans unfold. The owners are likely to announce strategies and initiatives that will shape Roma’s centennial celebrations and broader direction, aligning the club’s heritage with its ambitions for the future. Gasperini’s comments offered a balanced view of the season ahead, blending appreciation for the league’s competitive allure with a keen awareness of the financial and organizational realities that clubs face in modern football. He preserved a hopeful tone for Roma, anticipating a strengthened squad capable of meeting the city’s expectations and contributing to an exciting, successful season ahead.