An in-depth look at AS Roma’s title ambitions under Daniele De Rossi, tactical changes, key players, and what it means for Italian football in 2025.
Can Roma Compete for the Serie A Title Again Under De Rossi?
The eternal city’s beloved club, AS Roma, is witnessing a footballing revival—one driven by a familiar face now calling the shots from the dugout. Daniele De Rossi, a club legend and World Cup winner, has returned to the Stadio Olimpico, not in midfield, but on the touchline, bringing fresh tactical ideas and emotional leadership. As Serie A 2025 progresses, fans and analysts alike are asking the pressing question: Can Roma compete for the title again under De Rossi?
This article explores Roma’s transformation under De Rossi, their tactical evolution, squad depth, rivals, and ultimately whether they can rise to the top of Dis88 once more.
A New Era Begins: De Rossi at the Helm
Daniele De Rossi’s appointment as Roma head coach sparked widespread excitement among fans. Known for his passion, intelligence, and loyalty to the club, De Rossi represents the club’s spirit on and off the pitch.
Why De Rossi?
- Deep understanding of Roma’s culture
- Tactical education under Spalletti and others
- Emotional connection with fans and players
- Youth-first approach in development
His transition from player to manager has been remarkably swift. Having previously gained experience as part of Italy’s coaching staff and through a short stint at SPAL, De Rossi’s appointment may have been a gamble, but it’s one that’s paying off in both results and style.
Roma’s Tactics in the De Rossi Era
Gone are the overly conservative approaches that sometimes limited Roma’s attacking potential. De Rossi has implemented a dynamic and pressing-based system, focused on quick transitions and positional awareness.
Key Tactical Features:
- High pressing in the opponent’s half
- Compact 4-2-3-1 formation with fluid roles
- Emphasis on wide play and overlapping full-backs
- Trust in technical midfielders to dictate tempo
This system has brought new life to players like Lorenzo Pellegrini, Bryan Cristante, and Paulo Dybala, while allowing young talents such as Edoardo Bove and Nicola Zalewski to shine.
The Squad: Depth, Quality, and Leadership
To compete for the Serie A title, depth is just as important as starting quality. Roma in 2025 boasts a mix of youth, experience, and creativity that makes them legitimate contenders.
Key Players:
- Paulo Dybala: Still the creative heart of Roma’s attack. When fit, Dybala is one of the best playmakers in Serie A.
- Gianluca Mancini: A commanding presence in defense and a vocal leader.
- Lorenzo Pellegrini: The captain remains pivotal in midfield with his work rate and vision.
- Rasmus Kristensen: Provides width and consistency down the right flank.
- Houssem Aouar: Offers creativity and unpredictability from midfield.
Rising Stars:
- Edoardo Bove: De Rossi’s most trusted young midfielder.
- Nicola Zalewski: Full of energy and technical ability on the flanks.
- Tommaso Baldanzi: A future star with flair and confidence.
While injuries to key players like Dybala continue to pose a threat, the squad’s improved depth allows De Rossi to rotate effectively without drastically compromising quality.
The Competition: Can They Go the Distance?
Serie A in 2025 is fiercely competitive. Traditional giants like Inter, Milan, Juventus, and Napoli all remain strong contenders, while Atalanta and Lazio continue to punch above their weight.
Roma’s Title Rivals:
- Inter Milan: Tactical consistency and depth make them title favorites.
- Juventus: A disciplined and rebuilt squad, always in the conversation.
- AC Milan: Blending youth and experience, dangerous in big matches.
- Napoli: Still tactically sharp despite coaching changes.
Roma’s Edge:
What sets Roma apart under De Rossi is their emotional edge. The squad believes in the vision, the fans are fully engaged, and the club culture has returned to its core identity—passion and unity.
If De Rossi can maintain consistency in results, especially in away fixtures, Roma can mount a serious title charge.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite the optimism, several factors could hinder Roma’s title ambitions:
- Injury Concerns: Key players like Dybala and Spinazzola have recurring fitness issues.
- Squad Rotation: Competing in multiple competitions, including Europe, stretches resources.
- Inexperience: De Rossi is still relatively new to top-level management.
However, these challenges are not insurmountable. Roma’s momentum, combined with smart tactical adjustments, can help them remain in the hunt.
Fan Culture and the Power of the Olimpico
No discussion about Roma is complete without acknowledging the fan base. The Curva Sud continues to be one of the most vocal and passionate supporter groups in world football.
De Rossi has reconnected the team with the fans in a way not seen since the Totti-De Rossi playing era. Home games at the Stadio Olimpico have become fortresses again, with atmosphere and support creating an intimidating environment for visitors.
A Club Reborn
De Rossi’s Roma is not just a football team—it’s a cultural movement. There is a strong sense that something special is happening in the capital. The players are fighting for the badge, the manager leads with heart and brains, and the supporters are fully behind the project.
Roma hasn’t won a Serie A title since the 2000–01 season under Fabio Capello. Ending that drought in 2025 would be a historic achievement and a fitting reward for a club that has often been close but fallen short.
Conclusion: Can Roma Do It?
Yes, Roma can compete for the title under Daniele De Rossi. The combination of tactical evolution, player belief, and fan unity puts them in a strong position. While the journey won’t be easy, the foundation is strong, and the ambition is clear.
The real question may not be if Roma can compete—but whether they can sustain this level through to May. Stay tuned for more football greatness, and keep the passion alive on and off the pitch! ⚽🔥