Explore the tactical evolution of AS Roma under Daniele De Rossi. From pressing to possession, see how the club is reinventing itself in the league.

Roma’s Tactical Shift Under Daniele De Rossi

Few transitions in Aw8 Pro stir as much emotion as a club legend returning to manage the team that shaped them. For AS Roma, the appointment of Daniele De Rossi wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a bold move signaling a new tactical era. Known for his grit and intelligence on the field, De Rossi is now channeling those traits from the touchline, attempting to build a team that reflects his identity.

Taking over from José Mourinho in the 2023/24 season, De Rossi inherited a squad that had grown tactically rigid. While Mourinho brought results and silverware, especially in Europe, the football often lacked flair and attacking intent. De Rossi’s task? Reignite Roma’s fire with a more progressive and modern tactical approach—while staying competitive in the league.

This article breaks down how De Rossi is reshaping Roma’s identity, the tactical changes he’s implemented, and how his system is performing in Serie A 2024/25.

A Departure from Mourinho’s Pragmatism

Under José Mourinho, Roma’s tactics were clear:

• Sit deep

• Absorb pressure

• Exploit transitions through quick forwards

• Emphasize defensive stability over possession

While this yielded moments of success—such as the UEFA Europa Conference League title and a deep Europa League run—the league results were inconsistent, and performances lacked attacking fluidity.

Daniele De Rossi’s arrival marked a dramatic shift. He promised intensity, vertical football, and the revival of Roma’s historic attacking style. He didn’t just want to win—he wanted to win with identity.

De Rossi’s Tactical Blueprint

De Rossi’s system draws influence from:

• Luciano Spalletti’s positional play

• Pep Guardiola’s pressing and buildup structure

• His own experience as a defensive midfielder—defense starts with the ball

Key tactical changes:

1. Formation Flexibility (4-2-3-1 / 3-4-2-1)

De Rossi switches between a back four and a three-man defense depending on the opponent. The 4-2-3-1 is used against weaker teams to dominate possession, while the 3-4-2-1 helps absorb pressure and counter quickly in tougher matches.

2. Higher Defensive Line & Pressing

Roma now press higher up the pitch, aiming to win the ball back in the opposition half. The defensive line holds its shape higher, supported by energetic midfielders like Bryan Cristante and Leandro Paredes.

3. Midfield Control & Overloads

The midfield triangle often includes Pellegrini, Aouar, and Cristante, who rotate positions to create overloads and maintain possession. De Rossi encourages vertical passes into the attacking third rather than relying on long balls.

4. Attacking Full-Backs

Spinazzola and Kristensen (or Celik) are tasked with providing width, often operating almost like wingers. This opens space in the half-spaces for attacking midfielders to operate.

5. Fluid Front Three

Paulo Dybala, Romelu Lukaku, and El Shaarawy are given freedom to interchange. Dybala often drops into midfield to help in build-up, while Lukaku’s physical presence pins defenders back, allowing others to make diagonal runs.

How It’s Impacting Roma’s League Campaign

🔵 Goals Per Game: Up from 1.3 to 1.8

The increase in chance creation has led to a significant improvement in attacking output.

🔵 Possession Percentage: Up from 43% to 56%

Roma now controls games, even against top opponents. The midfield dictates tempo rather than reacting to it.

🔵 Pressing Success Rate: 7th in Serie A

Under De Rossi, Roma is pressing smarter and recovering the ball in more advanced areas, increasing the number of fast-break chances.

🔵 Passes into Final Third: Up 22% from 2023/24

This indicates a more aggressive vertical approach—essential in unlocking deep blocks.

Standout Players Under De Rossi’s System

🟢 Paulo Dybala

Now playing in a freer role as a hybrid No. 10/winger, Dybala is more involved in the build-up and thriving in the half-spaces. He leads the team in expected assists and key passes.

🟢 Evan Ndicka

With more responsibility in a higher line, Ndicka has impressed with his ball progression and positioning.

🟢 Lorenzo Pellegrini

As the midfield pivot in De Rossi’s system, Pellegrini’s tactical IQ and passing range are essential.

🟢 Leandro Paredes

De Rossi’s own former role is now occupied by Paredes, who shields the defense while initiating attacks with long diagonals.

Tactical Strengths and Challenges

✅ Strengths:

• Greater attacking freedom

• More sustained possession

• Engaging football that pleases fans

• Youth integration: De Rossi has given chances to promising talents like Zalewski, Bove, and Pagano

❌ Challenges:

• Occasional vulnerability in defensive transitions

• Adapting Lukaku’s physical style to fluid passing

• Depth: injuries to key players have exposed lack of quality replacements

• Adapting the high press against technically superior teams

What It Means for Roma and Serie A

Daniele De Rossi’s project is more than a tactical refresh—it’s a cultural reset. Roma is no longer just a team that defends and reacts; it is becoming a proactive side that shapes games.

This shift contributes positively to the league’s evolution. With Inter, Milan, Napoli, and Juventus all employing different tactical styles, De Rossi’s Roma adds a unique dimension—blending aggression, flair, and modern build-up play.

The Long-Term Vision

De Rossi’s Roma is still a work in progress, but the signs are encouraging. If the team continues to improve and adds depth in the transfer market, Roma could become a regular top-four contender and a serious threat in European competitions.

His identity as a Roman, a leader, and now a tactical thinker is winning over players, fans, and neutrals alike.

Conclusion: The Future of Roma Looks Bold and Tactical

Daniele De Rossi is not trying to replicate anyone—he’s building his own legacy. With courage, intelligence, and emotional connection to the club, he is redefining how Roma plays, competes, and dreams. The tactical transformation is already evident in how Roma approaches matches: with structure, ambition, and an intent to dominate.

If this trajectory continues, De Rossi could very well return Roma to its glory days—not just emotionally, but on the pitch and in the league table.

⚽ Support the League Where Tactical Brilliance Lives!

From Gasperini’s intensity to De Rossi’s vision, Serie A is evolving tactically like never before. Roma’s transformation proves the league is a breeding ground for innovation. Support your team. Support intelligent football. Support the league that’s always thinking one move ahead.