After a frustrating start to the season, Roma are eager to secure their first win as they host Empoli at the Stadio Olimpico this Sunday. Both teams struggled to find the net in their opening fixtures, with Roma drawing 0-0 against Cagliari and Empoli settling for a goalless stalemate against Monza.
Roma, under the leadership of Daniele De Rossi, are in a rebuilding phase after the departure of Jose Mourinho. De Rossi, now on a three-year contract, has brought in several exciting new players, including Artem Dovbyk, Matias Soule, and Enzo Le Fee. However, the biggest news is Paulo Dybala’s decision to stay in Rome, at least for now, despite tempting offers from Saudi Arabia. Dybala, who started on the bench last week, might be set for a more prominent role in this match as Roma look to break their scoring drought.
Empoli, on the other hand, are coming off a nerve-wracking season where they narrowly avoided relegation, thanks to a dramatic last-minute win over Roma on the final day. However, their record against Roma in the capital is dismal, with 14 defeats and just two draws in 16 attempts. New manager Roberto D’Aversa has a tough task ahead, especially with several key players missing due to injuries and suspension.
Team News
For Roma, Paulo Dybala could return to the starting lineup, joining forces with Matias Soule and Artem Dovbyk in attack. Tommaso Baldanzi, who will face his former club, Empoli, is still looking to open his scoring account for Roma. Leandro Paredes is available again after serving a suspension, giving De Rossi a full squad to choose from.
Empoli will be without Tyronne Ebuehi and Samuele Perisan due to injuries, while Alberto Grassi is suspended. Szymon Zurkowski is doubtful, requiring a late fitness test. Ola Solbakken, on loan from Roma, could feature against his parent club, with Lorenzo Colombo likely leading the line for the visitors.
Predicted Lineups
Roma: Svilar; Celik, Mancini, Ndicka, Angelino; Cristante, Paredes, Pellegrini; Soule, Dovbyk, Dybala
Empoli: Vasquez; Walukiewicz, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Henderson, Haas, Pezzella; Fazzini, Esposito; Colombo
Tip: Roma 2-0 Empoli
With their attacking talent and the home advantage, Roma are expected to break their scoring drought and secure their first win of the season. Empoli’s poor away record and depleted squad will likely see them struggle under the Stadio Olimpico lights.
