Gasperini: Dybala will try to play as Roma must show strength against Atalanta

Gian Piero Gasperini says Roma face a major test of their ambitions when they host the coach’s former club Atalanta on Saturday, while revealing that Paulo Dybala will undergo a fitness test ahead of the game.

Dybala has been dealing with a minor physical issue, but Gasperini remains hopeful that the Argentina international can make himself available at the Stadio Olimpico.

“Dybala has not had anything particularly serious, but he will try today. The important thing is that he feels calm and is sure he can play,” Gasperini said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb .

Roma have made a positive start to the season and now face one of the most demanding fixtures of the opening weeks of the season. The Giallorossi will also face Inter, Como and Napoli soon, with their European commitments adding further pressure to an already difficult schedule, hosting Real Madrid at the Stadio Olimpico on October 14.

Gasperini believes Saturday’s game should be viewed as an opportunity rather than simply another fixture.

“More than a test of maturity, I would define it as a test of strength. We face many great teams in the first 12 matches. Tomorrow we face a team of great value that has started well. It is a match worth the Champions League.”

The Roma coach also provided an update on Evan Ndicka and Lorenzo Pellegrini. Ndicka is expected to be available, while Pellegrini is still working towards a return and may not feature before the international break.

Gasperini insisted he will continue managing the squad on a game-by-game basis, particularly with matches arriving in quick succession.

“The programmes can be made, but you are never sure. If someone has a small problem, I try to save him and play someone who is feeling very well.”

BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Santiago Castro of Bologna FC competes for the ball with Evan Ndicka of AS Roma during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images) Gasperini: ‘Don’t count on free signings, it is difficut’ The coach was also asked about Roma’s decision to potentially look at the free-agent market following the closure of the transfer window. However, Gasperini does not appear convinced that a suitable opportunity will emerge.

“I think it is difficult. I don’t know what opportunities there could be. I wouldn’t count on it too much.”

There was also a particularly positive assessment of Roma’s current dressing room, with Gasperini praising the atmosphere that has developed since his arrival.

“This is an environment where you have the pleasure of coming every morning. When there are no disagreements or dislikes and there is the pleasure of working, it is extraordinary.”

NEWPORT, WALES – AUGUST 04: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on before the pre-season friendly match between Newport County and AS Roma at Rodney Parade on August 04, 2026 in Newport, Wales. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images) For Gasperini, that atmosphere could prove just as important as Roma’s results as they attempt to build upon a strong end to last season and further cement themselves among Italy’s leading sides.