Strong season start in Rome: Gasperini's side shines with goals

After the fourth matchday of Serie A, AS Roma, thanks to coach Gian Piero Gasperini, sits at the top of the table and embodies a strong start to the season, as the coach himself emphasizes.

Gasperini's praise for the "world‑class" squad

Gasperini describes his current team as "world class" and especially highlights the offensive power of Donyell Malen. The Dutchman, who was signed by AS Roma in the summer for 25 million euros, has already scored 19 goals in 20 league matches and has contributed six goals in four games since the start of the season.

The role of Dybala and the tactical concept

Argentinian playmaker Paulo Dybala set up all three of Malen's goals against Florence and says: "Playing with Donyell is easy. He always understands the passing lanes." Dybala even sees a "religious dimension" in the combination with Malen and feels "blessed to be able to play with Dybala".

Fan culture, Totti posters and upcoming duel

In the south stand of the Stadio Olimpico hangs a poster with the slogan "No Totti, no party". Although Francesco Totti has not played for the club for almost ten years, this does not dampen the mood – the tifosi celebrate exuberantly after the fourth matchday.

On Saturday evening at 6:00 p.m., AS Roma will host second‑placed Inter Milan, the reigning champions and cup winners under coach Cristian Chivu. The match is described by the sports press as the ultimate championship showdown.

Gasperini's nine‑year tenure (2016–2025) at Atalanta Bergamo, crowned with the Europa League victory in 2024, is described by him as a "creator of a solar system". He now transfers this to Roma, where he employs the extremely physical 3‑4‑2‑1 system with a defensive midfield position as a "black hole", forcing opponents onto the wings.