De Roon poised to anchor Roma midfield as Gasperini builds Champions League core
Marten De Roon confirmed he is 100 percent fit and ready to start for Roma in the coming weeks, the Dutch midfielder saying he will be a versatile option in the centre of the park.
Experience under Gasperini shapes his role
No player knows manager Francesco Gasperini better, having featured in 361 games for him, scoring 19 goals and providing 26 assists – more appearances than any other footballer under the Grugliasco‑born coach.
The 1991‑born midfielder is using the break to regain form, aiming to carve a significant role as Roma prepare for the Champions League, a competition that demands clarity and character.
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From October, De Roon will rotate with Bryan Cristante, forming a two‑man midfield that may also include Bryan Koné or Davide Pisilli, according to current pairings.
noted he arrived at Trigoria without a single minute under former boss Maurizio Sarri, who did not include him in his plans, prompting Gasperini to use him sparingly so far.
Former Atalanta player De Roon has already built a strong bond with compatriot Samu Malen, and his previous links with Alessandro Mancini and Cristante from their Bergamo days have helped his integration, with observers saying he feels as if he has lived in Rome his whole life.