Roma Serie A Title Hopes Backed by Capello as Milan Loom

Roma Serie A title aspirations have taken center stage this season, with legendary coach Fabio Capello lending his support to Gian Piero Gasperini’s impressive leadership. As Roma sit atop the Serie A table, Capello—himself a Scudetto winner with Roma in 2000-01—believes the Giallorossi could be on the cusp of a historic triumph, but warns that AC Milan may have the edge in the title race.

Capello Sees Shades of Past Glory in Roma’s Current Serie A Run

The Giallorossi’s form under Gasperini has drawn inevitable comparisons to Capello’s 2000-01 title-winning squad. That year, Capello revolutionized Roma with tactical fluidity and key signings like Gabriel Batistuta, leading the capital club to finish two points ahead of Juventus. Today’s Roma, after 12 matches, have amassed 27 points, boasting Serie A’s top defensive record with only six goals conceded.

Capello, speaking to Sky Sport, highlighted Gasperini’s impact: “He has instilled strength, determination, character and, above all, consistency in this team. That’s the hardest thing to do in Rome, where emotions often swing from euphoria to despair.” Capello praised Gasperini’s handling of stars such as Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule, acknowledging the coach’s knack for unlocking player potential. He noted, “He knows how to motivate, command respect, and convince players to adapt to new roles—all essential for sustained success.”

Roma’s Attack: The Missing Ingredient in the Serie A Title Race

Despite their defensive solidity, Capello cautioned that Roma’s attack remains a concern. The Giallorossi have scored the fewest goals among Serie A’s top six, and the departures of Tammy Abraham and Eldor Shomurodov have left a void up front. Capello reflected on his own title-winning side’s acquisition of Batistuta, underscoring the need for a clinical striker: “In my second year, we needed a center-forward. Batistuta was crucial.”

This season, Roma’s pursuit of Rasmus Hojlund ended in disappointment as he joined Napoli, while loan signing Evan Ferguson has struggled to adapt, recording just one goal and one assist in eight appearances. Artem Dovbyk has also found the net only twice, emphasizing the ongoing challenge in front of goal.

Squad Depth and Fixture Congestion: A Test for Roma’s Serie A Ambitions

Another obstacle is Roma’s demanding fixture list. In addition to their Serie A campaign, the Giallorossi are competing in the Europa League and Coppa Italia. Capello warned, “Cup competitions are costly and don’t allow for recovery, which will probably favor Milan, who have less fixture congestion.” Maintaining momentum while juggling multiple fronts will be crucial if Roma are to replicate past glories.

Gasperini’s Tactical Revolution and Roma’s New Identity

Gasperini’s tactical flexibility has revitalized Roma, echoing Capello’s shift from a 4-4-2 to a 3-4-1-2 formation in 2000-01. Under Gasperini, the team displays remarkable organization, discipline, and resilience. The coach’s approach has extracted the best from the squad, with standout performances from both veterans and emerging talents.

Capello remarked on Gasperini’s focus on psychological fortitude: “He’s taught the players to stay focused, to believe in the system, and to always be alert. That’s what makes a title-winning team.” As Roma prepare to face Midtjylland in the Europa League, the squad’s depth and tactical set-up will be under the microscope.

Can Roma Edge Past AC Milan in the Serie A Title Race?

While Roma have impressed domestically, Capello believes AC Milan’s lighter fixture schedule could give them a vital advantage. Without the burden of European competition, Milan’s squad may benefit from better recovery and consistency. Capello’s final assessment: “Roma will be competitive until the end. But with the extra games, Milan might just have the upper hand.”

Roma’s Next Challenge: Europa League and Beyond

Roma’s attention now turns to European competition, where they face FC Midtjylland this week. With two wins and two losses from four group stage matches, Gasperini’s side is eager to replicate their Serie A form and keep their European hopes alive. Success in the Europa League could provide a morale boost, but also intensify the challenge of managing squad fitness as the domestic title race heats up.

For more news about Roma’s Serie A journey and the latest updates from Italian football, visit for more news.

Opinion: Can Roma Go All the Way?

Roma’s defensive organization and tactical maturity under Gasperini have given fans reason to dream of another Scudetto. However, unless the squad can resolve their attacking struggles and maintain consistency amid a crowded fixture list, AC Milan’s advantage may prove decisive. For now, Roma remain genuine contenders, but January reinforcements up front could make all the difference in the Serie A title battle.