Roma’s Potential World Cup Representatives in 2026 | OneFootball

AS Roma has had a season marked by inconsistency: strong spells followed by setbacks. Their form has fluctuated, which is why the official soccer odds place them firmly in the top half of the table, though not among the likely title contenders.

However, with the World Cup on the horizon, attention shifts to the international stage. If Italy qualifies, the question arises: which Roma players might earn a spot in the squad? With the tournament expanding and the competition for places growing tighter, the possibilities are worth watching.

Italy’s Challenging Road to the World Cup

Italy’s path to the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain. After missing the last two tournaments, the pressure to return is clear. They finished second in their qualifying group, behind a strong Norway side, and now face the play-offs in March.

Gennaro Gattuso has brought new energy as a new coach, but also inconsistency. Italy showed signs of strength, including solid wins, but narrow results, such as the one-goal edge over Israel, showed lingering problems. Norway’s dominance left Italy little room for error, and now the play-offs are the last chance.

Their hopes will rest on discipline at the back and composure in midfield. Experienced players will need to deliver, and if Italy makes it through, Roma’s Italian core could be part of that push, bringing a level of cohesion already built within the club.

Lorenzo Pellegrini

Lorenzo Pellegrini remains one of Italy’s most reliable midfielders. Now 29, he brings experience, control, and the kind of maturity needed in tournament football. With more than 30 international appearances, he’s no longer seen as a future talent; he’s part of the current spine.

His form this season has been mixed, like Roma’s as a whole, but key performances have shown why he remains central to both club and country. He links phases of play with minimal fuss and covers ground without losing shape. Gattuso rates players who work without needing attention, and Pellegrini fits that profile. If Italy qualifies, he’ll likely be part of the core squad.

Gianluca Mancini

At the back, Gianluca Mancini offers stability. A consistent presence for Roma, he’s also earned his place with the national team. With around 20 caps and recent appearances in qualifiers, he’s trusted when Italy needs defensive order.

His ability in the air and his reading of danger make him valuable, especially in tight matches. While Roma’s backline has struggled at times this season, Mancini has remained a steady figure, often managing the defence through injuries around him. Gattuso has rotated between three and four defenders, and Mancini is comfortable in either setup.

Emerging Italian Talents from Roma

Beyond the core, several Roma players are on the edge of selection. Bryan Cristante brings experience and tactical flexibility. At 30, he still covers ground well and adds presence in both boxes. If Italy needs depth in midfield, he’s a reliable option.

Younger names could come into the picture, too. Niccolò Pisilli has shown composure in limited appearances and continues to grow at the club level. Tommaso Baldanzi adds unpredictability, creating chances and carrying the ball through tight spaces, something Italy often lacks. If form holds, any of these players could make the final squad, depending on how the next few months unfold.