A new era will begin at the iconic Stadio Olimpico on Saturday evening, as Roma welcome Serie A rivals Bologna to the Italian capital for what promises to be a compelling curtain-raiser to the 2025–26 campaign. The Giallorossi, now under fresh leadership, are eager to turn the page on a turbulent few seasons and finally reclaim their place among Italy’s elite. Their opponents, last season’s Coppa Italia winners, arrive with silverware in hand and ambitions of their own, hoping to build on a historic year that saw them lift their first major trophy in decades. Both clubs, though on different trajectories, share a common goal: to transform promise into sustained success and to begin the new season with a statement of intent.
Roma’s recent history has been marked by frustration and near-misses. For three consecutive seasons, they finished sixth in Serie A, a position that became both a symbol of stagnation and a source of growing discontent among their passionate fanbase. Last season, however, they finally broke free from that pattern, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification in a dramatic final stretch. The campaign began in chaos, with Daniele De Rossi and Ivan Juric both dismissed before Christmas amid inconsistent performances and internal discord. It was then that Claudio Ranieri, the beloved Roman native and folk hero of Italian football, was coaxed out of retirement to rescue his boyhood club. What followed was nothing short of remarkable.
Ranieri’s return brought not only stability but a renewed sense of purpose. The veteran tactician, known for his calm demeanor and tactical flexibility, galvanized a squad that had looked lost and uninspired. Under his guidance, Roma embarked on a stunning 19-game unbeaten run in 2025, collecting 49 points and recording 11 clean sheets. The transformation was evident in every department: the defense tightened, the midfield found rhythm, and the attack began to click. Though they ultimately fell short of a top-four finish, edged out by Juventus, the Giallorossi had rediscovered their identity and rekindled hope among supporters. Ranieri’s second farewell was met with heartfelt tributes, as he once again stepped away from the touchline, this time for good, leaving behind a team ready to take the next step.
To usher in this new chapter, Roma turned to Gian Piero Gasperini, the architect of Atalanta’s rise and a recent Europa League winner. Known for his high-intensity style and tactical innovation, Gasperini brings a fresh perspective and a proven track record of developing talent. His appointment signals a shift toward a more aggressive and dynamic approach, one that could finally unlock Roma’s full potential. Pre-season offered glimpses of what’s to come: four straight wins were followed by a humbling 4-0 defeat to Aston Villa, but the team bounced back with a gritty victory over Everton and a hard-fought draw against Saudi giants NEOM. These matches showcased both the promise and the growing pains of a squad adapting to a new philosophy.
While Roma have enjoyed a strong calendar year, Bologna arrive in the capital riding the wave of their Coppa Italia triumph, a moment that will be etched in club history. Dan Ndoye’s decisive goal against AC Milan in May sealed the victory and capped off a season of steady progress under Vincenzo Italiano. The Rossoblu had already made headlines by qualifying for the Champions League, and their cup win only reinforced their status as one of Italy’s most exciting teams. Now, they return to the Olimpico with confidence, having won their last two league encounters against Roma at this venue. In fact, Bologna are unbeaten in their last five meetings with the Giallorossi, a streak that adds an extra layer of intrigue to Saturday’s showdown.
Bologna’s recent dominance in this fixture is notable, but their overall record in season openers is less encouraging. They have won just two of their last 15 first matches, and last season ended on a sour note with three straight defeats to AC Milan, Fiorentina, and Genoa. That late slump saw them slip to ninth place, a disappointing finish given their earlier promise. Italiano will be keen to avoid a repeat and ensure his team starts the new campaign on the front foot. The challenge is compounded by a few key absences: Dan Ndoye and Sam Beukema have departed, Emil Holm is injured, and Juan Miranda is suspended. These losses will test Bologna’s depth and resilience, especially against a Roma side eager to impress their new manager.
Gasperini is expected to deploy his trademark 3-4-2-1 formation, with either Evan Ferguson, the exciting new recruit from Brighton, or last season’s top scorer Artem Dovbyk leading the line. Ferguson’s arrival has generated buzz, with fans eager to see how the young striker adapts to Italian football. Dovbyk, who netted 12 goals last term, offers a more familiar option and could be preferred for his experience and chemistry with the squad. Supporting the lone striker will likely be Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule, two Argentine playmakers capable of unlocking defenses with their flair and vision. Dybala’s return from injury is a major boost, and his partnership with Soule could become a key feature of Roma’s attack.
The midfield and defense have also been reinforced. Summer signings Daniele Ghilardi, Wesley, and Neil El Aynaoui are all available for selection, adding depth and versatility. However, the team will be without Leon Bailey, who suffered an injury in his first training session, as well as captain Lorenzo Pellegrini and suspended defender Zeki Celik. These absences will force Gasperini to make adjustments, but the squad’s overall quality should allow for a competitive lineup. The emphasis will be on pressing high, controlling possession, and exploiting Bologna’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in wide areas.
On the other side, Bologna will look to Riccardo Orsolini to lead their attack. The winger enjoyed a stellar campaign last season, scoring 15 goals and finishing third in the Capocannoniere rankings. His pace, creativity, and finishing ability make him a constant threat, and he will be joined by veteran striker Ciro Immobile, who returns to Serie A after a brief stint with Besiktas. Immobile’s pedigree is unquestioned: ranked eighth on the league’s all-time scoring list, he is just four goals shy of surpassing Roberto Baggio, a former Bologna icon. His history against Roma is also notable, having scored four times against them during his time with Lazio. His presence adds experience and firepower to Bologna’s frontline, and his partnership with Orsolini could prove decisive.
Despite their attacking options, Bologna face challenges in defense. With Holm and Miranda unavailable, Italiano will need to reshuffle his backline, possibly relying on younger or less experienced players to fill the gaps. The midfield will be tasked with shielding the defense and maintaining structure, especially against Roma’s fluid attacking movements. Italiano’s tactical acumen will be tested, as he seeks to balance ambition with caution, knowing that a poor start could derail momentum and invite pressure.
As kickoff approaches, anticipation builds. The match represents more than just three points—it is a litmus test for both teams, a chance to gauge progress and set the tone for the season ahead. For Roma, it is the beginning of a new journey under Gasperini, a chance to finally break into the top four and challenge for honors. For Bologna, it is an opportunity to prove that last season’s success was no fluke and that they belong among Italy’s best. The clash of styles—Gasperini’s high-octane approach versus Italiano’s measured build-up—adds tactical intrigue, while the individual battles across the pitch promise drama and excitement.
In the broader context of Serie A, this fixture reflects the shifting dynamics of Italian football. Traditional powers like Roma are seeking to reassert themselves, while emerging forces like Bologna are challenging the status quo. The league has become more competitive, more unpredictable, and more entertaining, with clubs investing in youth, innovation, and international talent. Saturday’s match is a microcosm of these trends, showcasing the evolution of tactics, the rise of new stars, and the enduring passion that defines the Italian game.
Ultimately, the outcome may hinge on moments of brilliance, defensive lapses, or managerial decisions. Whether it’s a Dybala free-kick, an Orsolini counterattack, or a tactical masterstroke from Gasperini or Italiano, the match promises to deliver spectacle and significance. As fans fill the Olimpico and millions tune in across the globe, the stage is set for a memorable opening act in what could be a defining season for both Roma and Bologna.
