We are only at the sixth matchday of Serie A, yet the perennial question of who will challenge Napoli for the title this season is already a hot topic. Discussions typically revolve around Inter, the reigning vice-champions, Massimiliano Allegri`s Milan, who have started strong with a solid foundation lacking last season, and Juventus, currently struggling, especially in attack. However, another team, often considered less than the others for now, has actually started the championship better than any of Napoli`s rivals: Gian Piero Gasperini`s Roma. The Giallorossi are currently tied for first place in the standings with Antonio Conte`s men. A closer look at how they secured 15 out of 18 available points makes it clear that it`s impossible, and frankly unfair, to exclude Roma from the Scudetto race.
Maximum Effort, Minimal Concession
Let`s start with a certainty: after the first six matchdays, Roma boasts the best defense in Serie A, having conceded only two goals. One of these goals led to their sole seasonal defeat against Torino. On the offensive side, they`ve scored seven goals, which might seem an anomaly considering Gasperini`s attacking philosophy at Atalanta. Yet, this figure leads to the conclusion that the Giallorossi have achieved maximum results with minimal effort. The feeling is that the coach`s work is only just beginning. As time progresses, the team`s gears will align more smoothly, potentially transforming Roma into an increasingly dangerous force for any opponent.
Two Aces Up the Sleeve
While Gasperini has, for now, focused on continuing the work started by Ranieri last season—though his distinct imprint is already highly visible in the players` approach and man-to-man tactics—he holds two key advantages to be unleashed at the opportune moment. The first has a specific name: Leon Bailey. The Jamaican winger, who sustained an injury shortly after arriving in the capital and has yet to make his official debut, is expected to unlock Roma`s offensive phase, injecting unpredictability and goals. The second advantage relates to the two center-forwards. Ferguson and Dovbyk have not yet fully blossomed under Gasperini. However, looking back at his career, it`s evident that almost every striker under his tutelage has made a significant contribution. Their moment will come, and from then on, Roma`s attacking threat will multiply, bringing numerous benefits to the squad. The Giallorossi are only at the beginning of their journey, and if everything unfolds as expected, they will become an increasingly credible candidate for the Scudetto. Opponents, consider yourselves warned.
