ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 20: Gian Piero Gasperini, manager of AS Roma, looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between AS Roma and SK Slovan Bratislava at Stadio Olimpico on October 20, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Gian Piero Gasperini was delighted with Roma’s first win in the Champions League against Slovan Bratislava, but was also “concerned” by Lorenzo Pellegrini’s new injury.
The Giallorossi were disappointed after two Champions League games as they were held to a 1-1 draw away to Fenerbahce, then 3-1 up against Real Madrid before conceding three identical goals from a corner in seven minutes for a 4-3 defeat.
They knew tonight that Slovan Bratislava represented a must-win game and emerged with a comfortable 4-0 win thanks to penalties from Mario Hermoso, Nahuel Molina, Niccolo Pisilli and Donyell Male.
Gasperini wants more from Roma
“There is no doubt that the team is in a good position, but they should not rest on their laurels,” Gasperini told Sky Sport Italia.
“He’s got to hit the basics consistently and he’s got to be a little more accurate on nights like this.”
Goal difference can be crucial for qualification at the end of the league stage, so hosting a side that lost 6-1 to Paris Saint-Germain inevitably feels like an opportunity to increase that.
“It was important for us to have the right approach from the start because we needed the three points and there are no easy games in the Champions League. I liked the way we played and we had no excuse for fatigue in the rotation.”
Roma made some changes to their squad due to injuries, but also lost their captain Pellegrini tonight to a muscle problem early in the second half.
“I’ve seen very important responses from the squad because the fixture list is full and I need everyone to step up to the task,” continued Gasperini.
“It allows us to move forward with confidence and expand the list of potential starters in this team. My only concern is that now we have Bryan Cristante back on the bench, we risk losing Pellegrini for a while.”
Roma are gaining confidence and face big Champions League tests against Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain.
“They are incredible tests and give us an opportunity to improve. We will approach these games in that spirit.”