Thespa Kusatsu Descripción general

Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini revealed that head coach Gian Piero Gasperini was instrumental in keeping him at the club following a six-month injury layoff. The Italian international emphasized his readiness to help the squad ahead of their Champions League tie against Slovan Bratislava.

Gian Piero Gasperini has credited a painful European collapse as the catalyst for Roma's convincing 2-0 victory over Genoa. The Giallorossi boss watched his side respond to continental disappointment with a clinical domestic performance that showcased their growing tactical maturity.

Real Madrid might have maintained their perfect start to the Champions League campaign, but the manner of their 4-3 victory over Roma has left Jamie Carragher unconvinced. Despite a dramatic late flurry at the Stadio Olimpico, the Liverpool legend believes Blancos boss Jose Mourinho is already struggling to find his feet in the Spanish capital.

The road to Madrid has begun with the league phase well under way - but which teams are currently looking in the best shape to go on and lift the European Cup?