AS Roma vs Athletic Club: Europa League Match Preview
AS Roma is set to make a much-anticipated return to European competition as they face Athletic Club (formerly known as Athletic Bilbao) in their UEFA Europa League opener on Thursday evening. The clash at the iconic Stadio Olimpico promises to be a fascinating encounter, marking the first-ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
Background and Current Form
AS Roma
The Giallorossi have undergone numerous changes recently, most notably parting ways with their former coach Daniele De Rossi after securing only three points from their first four Serie A fixtures. Ivan Juric now takes the helm, hoping to lead the team to European glory. Roma’s recent domestic form showed signs of improvement with a solid 3-0 victory over Udinese, following a string of mixed results earlier in the season.
Athletic Club
The Basque side is in strong form as they make their first continental appearance since 2018, when their Europa League journey ended at the hands of Marseille in the round of 16. Athletic Club has been impressive in La Liga, claiming victories in four of their last five matches, including a 3-1 win against Celta Vigo.
Team News and Lineups
AS Roma
Juric might have to make some strategic adjustments due to injuries. Captain Lorenzo Pellegrini is sidelined with a knee injury, joining Alexis Saelemaekers and Enzo Le Fee, although Le Fee aims for a return in the upcoming Serie A clash with Venezia. Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk will be key for Roma, especially since he has recently found the net in consecutive league games.
Probable Starting XI:
Formation: 3-5-2 Ryan; Mancini, Hermoso, Ndicka; Celik, Kone, Cristante, El Shaarawy; Soule, Baldanzi; Dovbyk
Substitutes: Bellucci Marin, Ryan, Abdulhamid, Hummels, Sangare, Paredes, Pisilli, Shomurodov, El Shaarawy, Soulé
Athletic Club
The Basque team will notably miss their standout player Nico Williams due to an ankle injury. Additionally, key players like defender Yeray Alvarez and goalkeeper Unai Simon are also sidelined. Inaki Williams is expected to take on a leadership role in the attack to make up for his brother’s absence.
Probable Starting XI:
Formation: 4-2-3-1 Agirrezabala; Gorosabel, Vivian, Paredes, Yuri; Ruiz de Galarreta, Vesga; I. Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Guruzeta
Substitutes: Padilla, Nunez, Lekue, De Marcos, Boiro, Vesga, Berenguer, Serrano, Jauregizar, Martón
Key Players and Statistics
AS Roma
- Bryan Cristante, the Italian midfielder, is one of Roma’s best players this season with a rating of 7.20 in Serie A.
- Paulo Dybala, the Argentine forward, has also been crucial with one goal and a rating of 7.26 in the current Serie A campaign.
- Artem Dovbyk, the Ukrainian striker, has emerged as a key player with two goals in five Serie A appearances.
Athletic Club
- Inaki Williams has been an influential figure this season, contributing one goal and four assists in La Liga.
- Oihan Sancet, the 24-year-old midfielder, has been a consistent performer with three goals in La Liga.
Predictions and Historical Context
In my opinion, the probability distribution for this match is remarkably even.
This even split underscores the unpredictable nature of the contest, with both teams having the potential to secure a win.
Final Thoughts
The stage is set for an intriguing battle at the Stadio Olimpico. AS Roma will look to kick-start their European campaign on a positive note under their new management, while Athletic Club aims to continue their fine form and make a successful return to European football. Fans can expect an exciting display of football from both sides in what promises to be a closely contested match.
