Roma: Strong finish last season, but preseason has raised questions

Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma ended the previous campaign in excellent fashion, winning their final five matches while scoring at least twice in every game and conceding only two goals. That outstanding run helped the Giallorossi secure third place and return to the Champions League for the first time in eight years.

Their summer preparations, however, have been considerably less convincing. Roma drew 3-3 with Cannes and 2-2 with Borussia Dortmund, while suffering heavy defeats against Cardiff (1-4) and Brighton (0-3). The squad has also been strengthened by Santiago Castro and Nahuel Molina, with both new arrivals potentially making their competitive debuts.

Fiorentina: A fresh chapter after a remarkable recovery

Fiorentina came close to a disappointing finish last season, but a strong second half completely changed their fortunes. Under Paolo Vanoli, the Viola produced the seventh-best record in Serie A after the winter break, losing just once across their final 11 league matches and keeping five clean sheets in their last eight.

Fabio Grosso has now taken charge and inherited a squad that has seen several additions, including Arthur Atta, Krist Ulay, Matteo Pellegrino, and Franco Mastantuono. Fiorentina have already opened their competitive campaign with a convincing 4-1 Coppa Italia win over Benevento, while Moise Kean has wasted no time getting on the scoresheet.

Match facts and head-to-head

Roma have suffered just one defeat in their last 14 Serie A opening-day fixtures.

The Giallorossi won 13 home league matches last season and lost only three at the Olimpico.

Fiorentina have beaten Roma just three times in their last 52 league visits to the Olimpico.

The Viola’s most recent league victory in Rome came back in 2018.