Roma Faces Monza Amid Squad Rotation Challenges

ROME, Italy — AS Roma will host Monza in a critical Serie A matchup on February 24, 2025, at the Stadio Olimpico. With only one player sidelined due to injury, Claudio Ranieri is expected to shuffle his squad amid a congested schedule, leaving fans eager to see how he balances domestic and European ambitions.

The Giallorossi are riding high after a 3-2 victory over Porto in the Europa League, marking their fourth consecutive match without defeat. Since Ranieri’s appointment, Roma has revitalized their playstyle, exhibiting a potent mix of attacking flair and defensive stability. As they prepare to face Monza, positioned at the bottom of the table, Roma is tied for the best form in the league since the managerial change.

In stark contrast, Monza has encountered a tumultuous season, with only two wins and a troubling goal difference of -18. Their recent managerial changes, including the return of Alessandro Nesta, have failed to stabilize a struggling side that just endured a heavy 5-1 loss to Lazio. With relegation to Serie B looming, Monza’s prospects appear bleak, prompting greater urgency for a turnaround.

Ranieri’s lineup decisions will be pivotal as Roma eyes both Serie A success and a deeper run in the Europa League. Following the Monza encounter, they will face Como and Athletic Club, intensifying the need for effective squad rotation. “It’s a delicate balancing act,” Ranieri acknowledged on the eve of the match. “We must manage our players carefully and remain competitive on all fronts.”

The Giallorossi have been dominant against Monza in recent years, remaining undefeated in their last five encounters. Additionally, they have secured victories in eight of their previous nine matches at the Olimpico, creating a sense of optimism among fans. However, Ranieri’s focus is also directed at addressing the vulnerabilities that have emerged throughout the season, particularly during quick counter-attacks.

With Artem Dovbyk ruled out due to a muscle injury, Eldor Shomurodov is set to lead the line. Shomurodov’s inconsistency has often relegated him to the fringes of the team, but this game offers a chance to showcase his abilities against a struggling defense. “He needs to seize this moment,” said Ranieri about Shomurodov. “With Dovbyk sidelined, we are counting on him to step up.”

Despite operating with a promising set of defenders, Roma’s defensive structures have been regarded as fragile this season, most notably following their loss to AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League. “It’s unbelievable to concede like that,” Ranieri criticized after the match, emphasizing the need for vigilance against fast breaks.

As both teams prepare for this crucial match, expectations are high for the Giallorossi to secure a positive result. The outcome could significantly impact their momentum moving forward, not only in Serie A but also in their quest for Europa League glory.

Date: February 24, 2025

Kickoff: 20:45 CET / 2:45 EST

Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome

Referee: Fabio Maresca