AS Roma defender Hermoso has highlighted the team's mental growth under manager Gian Piero Gasperini ahead of their return to the Champions League. The Giallorossi, currently sitting top of the Serie A table with 9 points and three wins from three, face Fenerbahce on Thursday at 18:45 in the group stage, a match broadcast live on Sky Sport. This marks Roma's first appearance in Europe's premier club competition in seven years, a significant milestone for the club.
What did Hermoso say about the team's development
Hermoso, interviewed by Sky Sport IT, credited the collective improvement to the new coach's imprint. "Gasperini has brought mentality and awareness: we have grown a lot compared to last year," stated the defender. This comment comes at a time of great confidence for the team, which in the league has scored 10 goals while conceding only one, demonstrating strength both in attack and defence. Gasperini's approach, known for its intense and organised play, appears to have taken root quickly within the squad.
The player also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming challenge. "We are happy to be able to play these matches and we want to start well," added Hermoso. The objective is clear: to start on the right foot in a group that promises to be complicated. The trip to Turkey represents an important test to measure the progress made in this early part of the season. The team can count on sky-high morale, fuelled by a perfect league start that sees them atop the standings.
What is the context of the Champions League match
The last time AS Roma played in the Champions League was the 2019-20 season. Returning after such a long absence adds significance to Thursday's debut against Fenerbahce. The trip to Istanbul is always a demanding test for any team, given the fiery atmosphere at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium. For Roma, it's about immediately reasserting themselves on the continental stage.
Preparation for this match is happening under the best possible circumstances, with the team in full form. The Serie A numbers speak clearly: three wins from three, a +9 goal difference, and a nearly impenetrable defence. These statistics provide a solid foundation of confidence ahead of the European commitment. The roster available to Gasperini is complete and can be viewed in the site's squad section.
How does this match fit into the busy schedule
The Champions League commitment slots into a very intense calendar for the Giallorossi. After the challenge in Turkey, the team must immediately refocus on the league. On Sunday, 14 September, another difficult away game is scheduled, this time in Turin against a team currently in thirteenth place. It will be a test of squad rotation and depth.
Gasperini will have to manage his players' energy optimally, balancing European ambitions with the need to maintain pace in Serie A. The sequence of closely spaced matches represents the first real managerial challenge of the season. Fans can follow the entire schedule of upcoming games on the fixtures page. The match against Torino will be another opportunity to consolidate the top position.
Gasperini's Roma therefore has the chance to confirm the progress made both in Italy and in Europe, starting precisely with the trip to Istanbul. The appointment is for Thursday, 10 September at 18:45, live on Sky Sport.
