Probable Formations: Roma vs Lazio

As we enter this pivotal Derby della Capitale, Roma fans would love to see the Giallorossi go on a look winning streak like their eternal rivals. However, what Romanisti probably crave even more than the on the field success that Lazio has had over the last few months, is the relatively good health of the Biancocelesti roster. As has been the theme all season, Roma enter this tense affair missing key pieces, while Lazio has all of its big guns available.

This week Amadou Diawara joined Nicoló Zaniolo on the trainers table long-term. Just how long is to be determined, as surgery may still be avoided, but regardless he will be missed in Roma’ s midfield for this one. Joining them on the injured list are Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Davide Zappacosta. However, in a bit of good news Fonseca confirmed he will have both Diego Perotti and Javier Pastore back for this one.

We have Perotti and Pastore, who will not be able to start the game but will be on the bench. It is good news for us. For the rest, the team is doing well, they’re confident and motivated. We have the conditions to play a good game tomorrow.

With Diawara out, Fonseca was asked if a change in formation to a three man defense was a possibility. Fonseca shot down the idea, which means we shouldn’t see a change in formation in front of Pau Lopez.

Therefore, expect to see Chris Smalling and Gianluca Mancini anchoring a back like that will have to deal with the likes of current Capocannoniere Ciro Immobile. Current projections have Aleksandar Kolarov on the left and Leonardo Spinazzola on the right. But, Alessandro Florenzi and Davide Santon are options there, as well.

Diawara’s absence left some wondering if Fonseca would again move Mancini to midfield like he did the last time Roma’s midfield was decimated. However, with Cristante and Veretout available he explained why that wouldn’t happen.

Cristante will play. It is true that he is not in the ideal condition to play three games after an injury, but we have no solutions. If Mancini plays in midfield, it’s not like having Cristante. By putting Mancini there I would now be changing the midfield and the defence. In my opinion, we must change very little at the moment, Cristante will play for this reason.

Moving into the attack, Edin Dzeko will lead the line after his midweek Coppa suspension. Playing behind him will be Lorenzo Pellegrini at trequartista. The wings should consist of Justin Kluivert and Cengiz Ünder with Perotti not ready to start. However, keep an eye out for a potential surprise Florenzi start in attack.

Gazzetta dello Sport