Dybala set to feature against Empoli after Saudi snub.
Roma vs
Empoli
As AS Roma seek to overturn their uninspiring start to the season, Sunday evening's clash against Empoli at Stadio Olimpico promises a riveting showdown, especially with Roma looking to maintain their historic dominance over the Tuscans, buoyed by the expectations surrounding new signings and stalwart attackers.
Roma
Daniele De Rossi's tenure with the Giallorossi started off on a subdued note following a goalless draw against Cagliari in the season's opening match. Roma can partly credit Roberto Piccoli's missed opportunities for securing a point in that game, while their new signing, Artem Dovbyk, came close but couldn't mark his Serie A debut with a goal.
This opening draw places De Rossi's team 16th on the league table as they prepare to face Empoli. Historically, Roma have been dominant against Empoli, winning eight of the last nine Serie A encounters and remaining unbeaten in 16 past away games against the Tuscans.
The last league meeting at the Stadio Olimpico saw Roma inflict a record 7-0 defeat on Empoli, underlining their superiority. Despite this, Roma's recent form has been patchy, with just one victory in their last eight matches across all competitions.
For the upcoming match, Matías Soulé, the new arrival Artem Dovbyk, and Paulo Dybala, who turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, are set to form the attacking trio in a familiar 4-3-3 setup. Dybala, who chose to remain in Rome, even took to Instagram to express his gratitude, saying, ‘Thank you, Rome... See you on Sunday.’
Empoli
Like the hosts, Empoli are also coming off a goalless draw in last weekend's league opener against Monza. This match marked new manager Roberto D'Aversa's Serie A debut with the club, yet he was unable to secure a win.
Empoli are currently in 14th place on the table, two spots above this weekend's opponents, Roma. Eager to make an impact on their trip to the capital, D'Aversa's men will aim to draw inspiration from their recent victory over Roma, having won 2-1 in the final game of last season.
However, the Tuscans have never managed to secure two consecutive wins against the Giallorossi in the competition. A 3—5—2 formation may be employed against Roma, with Lorenzo Colombo and Sebastiano Esposito leading the attack.
