Probable Formations: Roma v. Verona

The heavy workload, quick turnaround between matches and (thankfully) plentiful options at Paulo Fonseca’s disposal, have made these line-up predictions some of the most difficult in recent memory. Ironically enough, Roma’s roster has been healthier in the half-dozen matches that it’s played in the last three weeks than it has for most of the season. I’m not complaining about that but go figure.

The Giallorossi’s stellar bill of health will continue into Wednesday’s match against Hellas Verona. In that one, Chris Smalling will be the only significant Roma absence due to injury. Other than the Englishman, only Davide Santon will miss out due to physical ailment. Meanwhile, no Giallorossi player will miss out through suspension.

With that in mind, let’s get to Wednesday’s projected line-up. After getting a surprise match off against Brescia, Pau Lopez will return to the Giallorossi goal. In front of him youngsters Gianluca Mancini and Roger Ibañez will retain their places in the three-man back-line. Joining them will likely be Bryan Cristante as he returns from suspension to replace Federico Fazio.

Moving out to the wing back positions, Bruno Peres and Aleksandar Kolarov are expected to get the starting nods. However, keep an eye on Davide Zappacosta who could spell Peres after he’s made back-to-back starts. Centering them will be Jordan Veretout and Amadou Diawara to anchor the midfield.

Moving into the attack, Edin Dzeko will lead the line after starting the Brescia match on the bench. Supporting him will be attacking midfielders Lorenzo Pellegrini and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Pellegrini is currently a slight favorite over Justin Kluivert.

That’s how the probable formation looks as things currently stand for Roma. However, don’t be shocked to a see a surprise inclusion or two as we’ve seen in recent weeks.

Gazzetta dello Sport