Key Takeaways:
- Roma secured a 3-1 win over Genoa on Monday, moving ahead of Juventus into fourth place
- Gian Piero Gasperini highlighted the importance of maintaining a high tempo for Roma’s success
- Manu Koné netted his first league goal of the season, with Gasperini suggesting scoring more would attract bigger clubs
Match Analysis: Roma Surge Past Genoa
Roma recorded a 3-1 win against Genoa on Monday evening, a result that propelled them above Juventus to claim fourth spot. Reflecting on the performance during the post-match press conference, Gian Piero Gasperini acknowledged some initial technical errors but commended his side’s attacking movement. He remarked that Roma’s runs from deep positions consistently unsettled Genoa’s defence and allowed the side to appear threatening throughout much of the match. Gasperini expressed slight disappointment over Roma’s second-half display, admitting he would have preferred a higher level of football after the break, but stressed the importance of focusing on the many positives taken from the encounter.
🟡🔴 Il tecnico #Gasperini si è espresso ai microfoni nel post partita contro il #Genoa.
🗣️Il tecnico giallorosso si è espresso sui margini di miglioramento di #Koné, della prestazione della squadra e di #Dybala.
📲: @DAZN_IT #ASRoma pic.twitter.com/2Ks8GmZrs7
— InfoRoma24 (@inforoma24) December 29, 2025
Formation Debates and Statistical Perspective
Reporters discussed Roma’s record when fielding a traditional centre-forward, suggesting a positive correlation with victories. Gasperini countered that view, noting he was unsure about the specific statistics referenced since Evan Ferguson had featured in all but three matches and Artem Dovbyk, prior to injuries, always played. He clarified that while both players did not always complete the full ninety minutes or start every fixture, tactical adjustments often led to different outcomes, and losses were not necessarily linked to formation choices. Gasperini emphasised that, above all, success stemmed from executing strong performances and sustaining intensity, as Roma typically performed best when operating at a high tempo. He insisted that even when results did not follow, the performance level often remained high, which he considered paramount.
Key Players: Dybala’s Influence and Koné’s Progress
Paulo Dybala delivered a standout display against Genoa. Gasperini underlined the Argentine’s importance, stating, “When he’s not injured, he plays in any case because we don’t have other players of his quality.” He noted that Dybala’s fitness was a decisive factor in unlocking Roma’s attacking play, making it easier for the entire team. Gasperini added that if Dybala remains fit and available, he will continue to feature.
Meanwhile, Manu Koné registered his first league goal of the current campaign. Gasperini highlighted the midfielder’s scope for development, remarking that all players have room for improvement throughout their careers. He referenced Koné’s status as a French international and regular starter, praising his remarkable attributes. Gasperini commented, “It’s true that if he scored more goals, he’d likely not be playing for Roma – he’d be on another level already.” However, he identified finishing as an area where Koné can continue to improve his game.
