Probable Formations: Roma vs Sassuolo

The international break never seems to be kind to the Giallorossi’s trainer’s tables. It feels like every time the Lupi let members of the pack out into the world of international football one inevitably picks up a knock or worse. And this time around was no different.

Both Gianluca Mancini and Lorenzo Pellegrini returned early from Azzurri duty for precautionary reasons. Meanwhile, Nicolo Zaniolo missed out on the Azzurri’s match on Wednesday with a thigh bruise. However, it looks like all three will be available for Sunday’s match at the Olimpico.

Additionally, Matías Viña also had an injury scare while on duty with Uruguay. However, all checked out well and he featured on Thursday night for the South American side. Nevertheless, he will likely miss out on Sunday’s match due to the late return from the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, Chris Smalling returned to group training this week, but will likely start from the bench, which means only Leo Spinazzola misses out through injury.

Mourinho: “Everyone is available: Pellegrini, Smalling, Mancini ... all of them have trained and are available tomorrow.

“The only unfortunate one is Vina, as he only got back [from international duty] about an hour ago.”

If the three Italian players in question are fit enough to start then we should see an almost identical line-up to the last match prior to the international break.

Starting in goal will be Rui Patricio after his stint with Portugal last week. In front of the Portuguese keeper will be the duo of Mancini and Roger Ibañez at center back. Playing out wide will be Rick Karsdorp and Riccardo Calafiori. The young Roman will be the beneficiary of Viña’s late return from Uruguay duty.

In the midfield, Jordan Veretout, coming off his first France cap, and Bryan Cristante will play in the midfield double pivot. The attacking midfield should be composed of Zaniolo, Pellegrini, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. If either of the Azzurri players isn’t fit enough to start then look for Eldor Shomurodov or Carles Perez to get the nod. Finally, Tammy Abraham will lead the line.

buildlineup.com