AS Roma fans gave the team a passionate send-off ahead of their return to the Champions League. Around 40 yellow and red supporters gathered at Fiumicino airport to see the players depart for Istanbul, where they will face Fenerbahce in their group stage opener tomorrow. The match marks Roma's return to Europe's elite club competition after a seven-year absence, their last appearance being in the 2019-20 round of 16 against Porto. The scene was reported by ANSA Sport.
Roma travel to Turkey sitting top of Serie A with a perfect record of 9 points from three wins, having scored 10 goals and conceded just one. This strong domestic form provides a confident backdrop for Daniele De Rossi's side's European challenge. Among the players applauded by the fans were Paulo Dybala and Donyell Malen. The team boarded the bus from the terminal to the departure gate in an atmosphere filled with anticipation.
Why is this return so significant?
The return to the Champions League is a major milestone for the capital club after several seasons away from the top European spotlight. Qualification is the reward for last season's work and the excellent league start that sees Roma leading the standings. For many players in the squad, like Dybala himself, this is their first Champions League experience wearing the Roma shirt. Yesterday's airport gathering shows how much the fans feel the importance of this moment, eager to relive the emotions of big European nights.
How is the squad shaping up for the challenge?
The squad arrives in Istanbul in high spirits and with a solid defence, as shown by the league statistics of only one goal conceded. The attack has already displayed variety and potency, netting 10 times in the first three matchdays. This balance will be key against a tough opponent like Fenerbahce in a heated atmosphere like the Sukru Saracoglu. De Rossi has a roster rich in experience and quality, elements that must come to the fore in a competition where details matter. The fans at Fiumicino wanted to transmit exactly this belief to their idols.
What awaits Roma after Istanbul?
Regardless of the result in Turkey, Roma's schedule remains packed. After the Champions League trip, the team will immediately refocus on the league. The next Serie A fixture is already set for Monday, September 14th, with a tricky away game against Torino, currently 13th in the table. It will be another important test to maintain the top spot in the Italian standings. All the team's matches are available in the fixtures section of the site.
Physical and mental preparation for the midweek double commitment has been a focal point of the summer planning. The players will need to show they have the squad depth and energy required. The Torino match will be the first in a series of decisive games that will define Roma's autumn, both in Italy and in Europe. The game against the Granata will be played on Monday, September 14, 2026.
