Roma absolutely walloped Fiorentina 4-0, and you know who was leading the charge? Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen combined for a hat-trick that had the Stadio Olimpico buzzing. It was a statement win, and coach Gian Piero Gasperini didn’t hold back, calling the pair “world-class” in his post-match comments.
These Two Are Absolutely Electric
Gasperini knows he’s got something special brewing with Dybala and Malen. He specifically called Dybala “world-class,” adding that the guy “always has been,” even after dealing with too many injuries. The coach shot down talk of “silk muscles,” saying Dybala is a “beast” who could even play extra time. Remember last year when he got unlucky getting injured taking a free-kick and a penalty? That’s all clearly behind him now.
And Malen? Gasperini was just as hyped, calling the Dutchman “extraordinary” and saying it’s “no accident.” Malen picked up right where he left off at the end of last season, feeling “appreciated and strong.” The coach sees him as a “leader on the pitch” who can “grow further,” and you just know he’s found the right environment in Rome. This was his second hat-trick for Roma, which is just incredible early in the campaign.
The Core Is Solid, The Future Is Bright
When someone asked Gasperini if Roma could target something “bigger” this season, he laughed it off a bit, saying “You sound like a broken record.” But he did agree on the performance. The coach emphasized the team has “an extraordinary group.” He talked about creating “a base a year ago” and then “added quality.” Now, the “group is consolidated,” and the “new arrivals fit in,” which is massive.
Speaking of new arrivals, Rodrigo Mora officially joined Roma on a permanent transfer from FC Porto and immediately impressed on debut. Gasperini praised him as “a talent,” saying “When he touches the ball, something nice happens.” He needs continuity, but the potential is clearly there. They also had Manu Kone ask to come off after a booking, having just returned from the World Cup. Gasperini admitted he “pushed him a bit,” noting a “disparity in condition” for players who went to America, but praised Kone’s “generosity” and “excellent game.” He just needs to train and find his condition.
So, with Dybala and Malen absolutely firing, a strong consolidated group, and a new talent like Mora ready to shine, Roma is definitely a team to watch. They might not be talking “bigger” targets yet, but you have to wonder what this early season form means as they figure out the competition. What a start to the campaign!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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