Roma face one of the most emotionally charged nights in their recent history as they host Real Madrid at the Stadio Olimpico in the second matchday of the Champions League group phase. The occasion carries extra weight because José Mourinho, who led Roma to the 2022 Conference League title before his controversial dismissal, returns to the Olimpico as the opposition manager, a storyline that has dominated the build-up all week.

The match arrives after a resilient 0-0 draw at Como in Serie A, a result that demonstrated the squad's defensive discipline but also highlighted the difficulties of playing 30 minutes with ten men following Donyell Malen's red card. Malen has since received a one-match ban from the Giudice Sportivo, meaning he will miss a league fixture but remains available for tonight's European clash, as confirmed by reports on his suspension. Gian Piero Gasperini praised his side's organisation after Como, and his pre-match conference struck a confident tone ahead of the Madrid test, according to Goal's coverage.

With Bryan Cristante unavailable through injury, Marten de Roon is set to partner Manu Koné in midfield. Pierluigi Gollini, who impressed at Como filling in for the injured Mile Svilar, is expected to start again in goal, as noted in the latest team news. Roma sit third in Serie A with 14 points from six games, and a positive European result tonight would significantly boost confidence heading into a demanding stretch of fixtures.