Headline: Roma’s Gian Piero Gasperini Acknowledges Scudetto Contender Status After Victory Against Sassuolo
Gian Piero Gasperini recognizes that AS Roma “are in the mix” for the Scudetto title race following their convincing 3-0 win over Sassuolo, stating that “even when we lost, we still scored lots of goals” against formidable teams like Manchester United and Real Madrid.
The Giallorossi sought to boost their morale after a disappointing midweek match where they “fumbled a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 at Manchester United in the Champions League.” This emphatic victory against Sassuolo showcased their strength, as they dominated the game without ever looking threatened, with Mario Hermoso, a deflected effort from Donyell Malen, and Rodrigo Mora finding the net.
Despite a total of 28 shots against a Sassuolo side suffering five consecutive losses, the 3-0 scoreline felt limited considering Roma’s dominance.
Gasperini Raises Bar for Roma
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 07: Gian Piero Gasperini, Manager of AS Roma, and Alberto Aquilani, Manager of U.S. Sassuolo Calcio pose for a photo before the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo at Stadio Olimpico on November 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gasparini praised the team’s performance, highlighting the impressive goal by Hermoso that set the tone for the match. “It was not easy against a side that clammed up, but we played with quality,” he said in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.
Reflecting on recent matches, Gasperini noted the team’s resilience despite setbacks, including the recent losses in which they were leading. “Those two defeats hurt because they were late and we were leading, but they came after strong performances against top-level opponents,” he added.
All three goals against Sassuolo exemplified Roma’s relentless approach, brushing aside their defenders, even as Sassuolo’s Alberto Aquilani attempted to change tactics to fortify their defense.
ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 07: Rodrigo Mora of AS Roma passes the ball during the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Sassuolo at Stadio Olimpico on November 07, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gasperini noted a considerable improvement in the team’s attacking capabilities this season, saying, “We are sharper and more confident, as we now score in various ways with different players.” He praised Hermoso’s striking abilities and highlighted Matias Soulé’s outstanding performance.
“This is not just a reaction to defeat; it is confirmation of our team’s progress,” he affirmed. He also commented on Balerdi’s strong show against Manchester United prior to the unfortunate moment that led to the penalty that sparked United’s comeback.
ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 27: Gian Piero Gasperini, Manager of AS Roma, looks on before the Serie A match between AS Roma and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on October 27, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gasperini, who has downplayed Roma’s title ambitions in the past, was posed a question about whether he would accept a second-place finish at this point in the season. He remarked, “I don’t know; it’s fun to play this season. We must not deceive ourselves or set unrealistic expectations, but there’s nothing wrong with dreaming, especially with the journey we are on.”
He acknowledged Inter’s strong position in the title race, stating, “As everyone rightly says, Inter are the favorites to win. However, all of us, including us, are in the mix and can have our chances. Lazio have won nine of their last 10 matches, so they are certainly up there.”
Gasperini pointed out that if Inter falters, it opens the door for others to challenge. “We don’t focus too much on those matches; we’re just watching from the sidelines,” he joked.
This win places Roma in a favorable position, especially as Inter and Como prepare to face off on Sunday while Lazio has a challenging matchup against Napoli, suggesting a potential ascension to at least third place for Roma.
