Cards on the table

Gasperini declares AS Roma's ambition is the Serie A title, not a top-four finish, after strong early-season form.

Gian Piero Gasperini has made his intentions clear: AS Roma are targeting the Serie A title, not settling for a Champions League place. After Roma's strong start to the season—11 games in—the manager said he would not sign up for second place, signalling both his belief in the squad and a call for the club to back him in the January transfer window.

Gasperini praised Roma's attacking output (31 goals already this season, compared to 59 last year) and their tactical solidity, noting that goals now come from across the team rather than relying on individual stars like Dušan Tadić or Nicolò Zaniolo. He highlighted the squad's intensity and mental resilience as proven ingredients for success.

The challenge ahead lies in balancing Champions League football with the gruelling demands of Gasperini's high-intensity system, and whether Roma's ownership will provide the quality reinforcements needed to sustain a title push through the season.