AS Roma return to Serie A action this Friday night, hosting Pisa at the Stadio Olimpico in a crucial match for their European ambitions. The Giallorossi are desperate to rediscover their winning form after a difficult period that has seen them win just once in their last seven matches across all competitions.
That poor run, which included a heavy 5-2 defeat to champions Inter Milan before the international break, has seen Roma slip to sixth in the table. They now sit four points outside the coveted top four, making this home fixture against Pisa a must-win to reignite their Champions League qualification hopes.
Manager Gian Piero Gasperini faces significant selection headaches, particularly in attack. Star forward Paulo Dybala remains out following knee surgery, while Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson are also sidelined with hamstring and ankle injuries. This places the goal-scoring responsibility firmly on the in-form shoulders of Donyell Malen, who has been a bright spot with seven league goals since January.
The defensive line is also weakened, with Gianluca Mancini expected to miss several weeks with an adductor problem. Daniele Ghilardi is the likely candidate to step into the back three. There is some positive news in midfield, however, as Manu Kone and wing-back Wesley are nearing full fitness and could be available for selection.
With Matias Soule returning to the starting lineup last time out, Roma's probable XI looks set to rely on a blend of experience and youth as they seek a vital three points.
Predicted AS Roma Starting XI: Svilar; Ghilardi, Ndicka, Hermoso; Celik, Cristante, Pisilli, Tsimikas; Soule, Pellegrini; Malen
The match kicks off at 7:45 PM BST on Friday, April 10th. Fans in the UK can watch the action live on DAZN or TNT Sports 1.
