The road to the Europa League final in Istanbul is already mapped out for Roma — and it’s anything but straightforward.
First up: Bologna in the Round of 16. A domestic clash on the European stage, and one that promises intensity. Vincenzo Italiano’s Bologna have proven to be one of the most tactically organized teams in Italy this season, making this opening hurdle far from comfortable.
Quarterfinal Threat: Aston Villa Loom
If Roma clear Bologna, the quarterfinal could bring a compelling storyline. Waiting on the other side of the bracket is Aston Villa, provided the Premier League side eliminate Lille.
That would mean a reunion with former Roma striker Tammy Abraham, along with attacking talents like Leon Bailey and Jadon Sancho. For Gian Piero Gasperini, it would be a step up in physicality and pace — a classic Italian vs. English European showdown.
Semifinal Scenario: A Softer Bracket?
Should Roma navigate both Bologna and a potential Aston Villa test, the semifinal path looks comparatively less daunting. The Giallorossi would face one of:
- VfB Stuttgart
- FC Porto
- Nottingham Forest
- FC Midtjylland
On paper, that side of the bracket offers more balance, but European competition rarely follows predictions.
No Away Fans in Bologna
Complicating matters further, Roma supporters are expected to be barred from traveling to Bologna. The restriction, issued at the national level by Italian authorities, applies regardless of competition. That means Roma may have to navigate the opening leg without their traveling fan base.
The path is set. The margins will be thin. And for Roma, the dream of lifting the Europa League trophy in Istanbul runs through some very familiar — and very dangerous — territory.
