Roma manager Gasperini signals willingness to retain Dybala as contract talks stall
Despite the striker's suggestion that the upcoming derby against Lazio could be his final appearance, the club prepares for negotiations on his expiring deal
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini has publicly indicated a strong preference for retaining forward Paulo Dybala for the upcoming season, even as the Argentine player has hinted that the forthcoming derby against Lazio might mark his final match in a Roma jersey. While the coach expressed a personal desire to keep the striker, the ultimate authority on the matter lies with the club's owners, who are currently engaged in negotiations regarding the expiring contract.
Gasperini addressed the situation following the team's recent victory against Parma, noting that Dybala delivered an excellent performance after a three-month absence due to injury. The manager highlighted the player's technical ability and specifically praised his "unique muscle fibre," observing that the striker remained fresh and capable of making quality plays towards the end of the match. This assessment underscores the manager's view that Dybala is still a vital asset to the squad.
However, the path to a contract extension remains uncertain, with the final decision resting squarely with the ownership rather than the coaching staff. Gasperini acknowledged the ambiguity surrounding the player's comments, stating that the matter is strictly between the owners and the player. The manager noted that while he would be happy to have Dybala return next year, the club must navigate the contractual reality independently of his personal wishes.
The timing of these discussions adds a layer of urgency ahead of the crucial fixture against Lazio. Dybala's suggestion that this derby could be his last game in a Roma jersey has left fans and the media questioning his future, yet the club maintains that the outcome is not yet determined. The manager emphasised that there is still a week to go before the match, leaving the door open for a resolution to the impasse.
As Roma looks to secure a Champions League spot, the stability of the squad remains a priority. Gasperini lamented the significant portion of the season the striker missed due to his injury, suggesting that his return has been instrumental in the team's recent form. Nevertheless, the structural decision regarding his employment status remains pending, with no definitive agreement reached between the parties involved.
The divergence between the manager's public sentiment and the contractual negotiations highlights the complex nature of player retention at the club. While Gasperini's statements reflect a clear desire to maintain the player's services, the final outcome will depend on the terms offered by the owners and Dybala's willingness to accept them. Until negotiations conclude, the status of the Argentine remains officially undecided.
