The managerial chessboard at AS Roma is poised for a potential shake-up this summer, with sporting director Frederic Massara's future appearing uncertain. At the heart of the matter is a reportedly strained relationship between Massara and head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, a dynamic that has long been an open secret within the club's Trigoria headquarters.

While Gasperini remains fully focused on navigating Roma's crucial final matches, the club's American owners, the Friedkin family, are expected to evaluate the sporting direction at season's end. Should they decide a change is necessary, a leading candidate is already emerging from the wings.

Cristiano Giuntoli, the architect of Juventus's recent Scudetto-winning squads, is currently a free agent and is seen as the favorite to step in if Massara departs. Reports indicate Giuntoli shares a strong, growing friendship with Gasperini, making him a natural and strategically aligned choice for the Giallorossi's bench boss.

For now, the project under Gasperini is expected to continue, but the sporting director role seems most vulnerable. All eyes will be on the Friedkins' end-of-season review, which will determine whether Giuntoli's anticipated return to Serie A management will be at the helm of Roma's transfer strategy.