AS Roma have chosen a different starting eleven for their Serie A showdown with Udinese, opting to start Rodrigo Mora and Matias Soulé alongside Donyell Malen. The Giallorossi will look to keep pace with the joint leaders Inter and Lazio after a string of three draws in four matches. The match, set to kick off at 17.00 GMT on 31 October 2026, is a key opportunity for Roma to secure a win before their Champions League clash with Manchester United.
Roma’s New Formation and Player Roles
The side will line up with Gollini in goal, Ghilardi and Hermoso in defense, and a midfield trio of Molina, Cristante and De Roon. The attacking trio will feature Wesley, Soulé and Mora, with Malen as the focal point. This setup gives the team a more balanced approach, allowing the midfielders to drop back when needed and providing the forwards with creative support from Soulé and Mora.
Udinese’s Injury Crisis and Squad Depth
Udinese’s coach Kosta Runjaic faces an injury crisis, with key players such as Oumar Solet, David Alaba, Alessandro Zanoli, Idrissa Gueye and Vakoun Bayo on the treatment table. The squad will rely on Zaniolo, Ekkelenkamp and Keinan Davis up front, while Lennon Miller is preferred over Jakub Piotrowski in midfield. The lack of depth could be a decisive factor against a Roma side that is already in good form.
Key Matchups to Watch
Malene’s partnership with Soulé and Mora will be central to Roma’s attack. Malen has been in fine form, scoring twice in the last four league games, and will look to exploit the gaps left by Udinese’s defensive frailties. On the defensive side, Udinese’s Zaniolo will be tasked with marking Roma’s wingers, while the midfield battle between Cristante and Miller could decide the tempo of the match.
Recent Form and Momentum
Roma have recently ended a streak of three draws with a 4-2 win over Cagliari, while Udinese’s last match ended in a 0-0 draw with Parma. The Giallorossi’s recent victories have given them confidence, whereas Udinese’s lack of wins in the last six games may affect their morale.
Prediction and Tactical Outlook
Given Roma’s superior squad depth and recent form, the team is likely to control possession and create more chances. Udinese’s injury list and lack of recent wins suggest they will struggle to keep up, making a Roma victory a strong possibility.
Roma’s decision to start Mora and Soulé shows the manager’s willingness to experiment, but the core of the attack remains unchanged. The Giallorossi are better equipped to handle the pressure of a top‑flight match, and their recent form backs their chances of securing the three points.
If Roma win, they will close the gap on Inter and Lazio, keeping their title hopes alive. A victory will also give the squad confidence ahead of their Champions League tie at Old Trafford. For Udinese, a loss will deepen their struggle for survival, especially with a thin squad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roma will line up in a 4-4-2 formation with Gollini in goal, Ghilardi and Hermoso in defense, a midfield trio of Molina, Cristante and De Roon, and an attacking duo of Soulé and Mora supporting Donyell Malen.
Udinese are missing Oumar Solet, David Alaba, Alessandro Zanoli, Idrissa Gueye and Vakoun Bayo due to injuries.
Roma secured a 4-2 victory over Cagliari, ending a run of three draws in four league games.