Roma’s Champions League home debut against Real Madrid has left Gian Piero Gasperini with concerns that extend beyond the disappointment of a late defeat against José Mourinho’s side.
The decision
The immediate priority at Trigoria is the condition of Manu Koné and Paulo Dybala, both of whom were forced out during the European match at the Olimpico.
Koné lasted little more than 15 minutes before suffering a muscular problem in midfield. The Frenchman was replaced by Pisilli, and Gasperini indicated after the final whistle that his situation is the more worrying of the two.
Dybala, meanwhile, did not return for the second half after feeling discomfort in his right calf. The early expectation is that the Argentine forward has suffered only a minor reaction, although Roma will not know more until the medical checks are completed.
Both players are scheduled for instrumental examinations on Friday, 16 October. Those results will establish the extent of their respective injuries and give the club a clearer indication of possible recovery periods.
The timing is awkward for a Roma side already managing several absences. Genoa arrive at the Olimpico on Saturday, 17 October, with kick-off set for 20:45, and the visitors will be led by another former Roma figure, Daniele De Rossi.
Gasperini is already without goalkeeper Svilar and Bryan Cristante, while Malen must serve a one-match suspension following his red card at Como. The possible loss of Koné and Dybala would further narrow the coach’s options for a league fixture that follows quickly after a demanding European night.
