Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has called for fundamental reform of Italian football’s youth development structures as the Giallorossi began pre-season training on Monday. Speaking at the club’s Trigoria base, he outlined both systemic criticisms and the club’s immediate competitive goals.
Youth Sector Under Scrutiny
Gasperini argued that Italy’s football infrastructure requires comprehensive review, particularly regarding academies. He suggested that the failure to produce first-team players from youth ranks indicates institutional problems rather than a lack of talent.
“If none of them come through,” Gasperini remarked, “the issue lies with the adults, not the children.” He noted that despite regulations mandating homegrown players in squads, few Serie A clubs—including Roma—field academy graduates who genuinely contribute.
Regarding Paolo Maldini’s recent appointment as FIGC technical director, Gasperini welcomed the move but cautioned that individual appointments cannot compensate for systemic failures. He insisted that “the system has to be reviewed,” adding that recent national team performances suggest untapped quality within Italian football.
European Target Before Title Tilt
Gasperini established Champions League qualification as Roma’s primary objective, insisting that financial and sporting stability must precede any Serie A title challenge. He emphasised that consistent participation in Europe’s premier competition would provide the economic foundation necessary to strengthen the squad.
“We have to try and stabilise at the top,” he stated. Consistent qualification for Europe’s elite, he explained, would eventually allow Roma to challenge for domestic honours. Only after establishing this platform could the club “aim for the Scudetto.”
Transfer Window and Financial Constraints
The coach anticipates increased transfer activity this week, having described the market as “fairly sleepy” owing to the ongoing 2026 World Cup in the United States. He predicted that “the ‘real’ window will begin this week for most teams” as clubs finalise their squads.
Financial Fair Play regulations continue to shape Roma’s strategy. Gasperini acknowledged that the club must balance its budgets despite securing Champions League football. When questioned about potential sales—specifically regarding midfielder Manu Koné—he indicated that clarity would emerge regarding squad adjustments necessary to meet financial obligations.
Gasperini also addressed the hydration breaks implemented during the World Cup, suggesting that extreme heat fundamentally alters the nature of the sport, though he praised the tournament’s overall organisation in the United States.