Matias Soulé Returns to Training as Roma Prepare for Inter Clash
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has confirmed that winger Matias Soulé has returned to first-team training and is nearing a return to action. The Argentine, who joined from Juventus last summer, has been sidelined for a significant period but has now completed two weeks of work with the squad ahead of Sunday's crucial Serie A match against league leaders Inter Milan.
Gasperini revealed the positive update in his pre-match press conference, stating that while Soulé struggled initially, his condition has improved markedly. "He has recovered and has trained with us these two weeks," Gasperini said. "The first week he was a bit in difficulty, this last week he is definitely much better. He was himself again." The manager did not confirm whether the 21-year-old would be available for selection at San Siro, but his return to the group provides a timely boost for the final eight games of the season.
The news offers some relief for a Roma side dealing with other fitness concerns. Gasperini confirmed that midfielders Wesley and Manu Koné have returned from international duty but remain unavailable, despite both players feeling more positive than the initial medical prognosis suggested. In defense, the absence of right-back Noussair Mazraoui means a choice between Sacha Boey and Kostas Tsimikas, with Gasperini noting that Angeliño has made notable progress but may not yet be ready for a full match.
Soulé's return is particularly relevant given Roma's push for Champions League qualification. The Giallorossi currently sit level on points with Juventus and just three points adrift of the top four. His creativity and goal threat from the right flank have been missed since his injury; he has contributed five goals and three assists in 22 league appearances this season following his permanent move from Juventus. His reintegration provides Gasperini with another offensive option for the decisive run-in.
The manager used the press conference to broadly address the state of the club and Italian football. He dismissed speculation about imminent meetings with directors Frederic Massara and Tiago Pinto, emphasizing total focus on the final eight "decisive" matches. Gasperini also expressed his hope to remain as Roma manager next season, stating he has a "very open and sincere" relationship with the ownership and that the squad's strong foundation should be improved, not dismantled.
When asked about the importance of qualifying for the Champions League, Gasperini acknowledged the massive financial implications for the club's future planning. He stressed that the team's performances, barring two consecutive defeats to Genoa and Como, have been strong and full of commitment. As for Soulé, his return to fitness comes at a pivotal moment as Roma aim to close the gap to the top four, starting with a formidable challenge against the champions-elect this weekend.
