AS Roma defender Evan Ndicka has avoided a muscle injury after tests on Thursday, but his availability for the Atalanta match is in doubt. The Ivorian centre-back is only suffering from inflammation, according to Corriere dello Sport, paving the way for a potential debut for Leonardo Balerdi.
The Serie A match is scheduled for Saturday at 20:45 at the Olimpico, part of a busy schedule that includes the Champions League group stage. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini therefore has several options to reconfigure his three-man defence. One possibility is to confirm Filippo Ghilardi, shifting Gianluca Mancini to the centre. The main alternative, however, is to start Balerdi, who arrived from Marseille this summer.
Who is Leonardo Balerdi
Leonardo Balerdi is a 27-year-old Argentine centre-back who signed for Roma in July. Standing 187 cm tall, his physical profile is similar to Ndicka's and he is considered the natural deputy in that role. Before the last match against Lecce, Balerdi had only completed a few training sessions with the squad, which is why Gasperini preferred to field Ghilardi. Now, after further training, he appears ready for his Giallorossi debut.
His international experience with Argentina and over 100 appearances in Ligue 1 make him a reliable option. His integration is being closely monitored, as seen in the dedicated squad section on our site, which tracks all transfer movements.
How AS Roma's defence changes
If Balerdi starts, the defensive line will be reshuffled. Gianluca Mancini would be confirmed as the right-sided defender, while Mario Hermoso would play on the left. Balerdi would occupy the central position, typically held by Ndicka. This setup would maintain a balance between experience and physical freshness.
Roma's defence has shown solidity so far this season. Updated data on the team's statistics show a good balance between goals scored and conceded. Ndicka's potential absence, however, is not expected to be long-term. The club communicated there is no lengthy layoff for the player, who should be available again in the coming weeks.
The challenge against Atalanta
Saturday evening's match represents an important test for Gasperini's team. Atalanta arrives at the Olimpico after a positive start to the league and is a direct rival for the top places in the standings. Facing such an aggressive side without one of the starting defenders will be a test for the reliability of the entire defensive unit.
Roma's schedule is very demanding, with Serie A and Champions League fixtures coming in quick succession. To follow all the commitments, fans can check the fixtures page. The next match after Atalanta is a Champions League away trip next Tuesday, which will require rotations and careful management of energy.
The final decision on the lineup will be made after the last training session on Friday. Gasperini will assess Ndicka's condition and Balerdi's match readiness. The Argentine defender, wearing the number 3 shirt, is technically ready to answer the call and experience his first moment at the Olimpico as an AS Roma player.
