Despite still battling for a Champions League qualification place next season, both domestically and on the continent, AS Roma are set to renew the contracts of midfielders Nemanja Matic and Bryan Cristante, while there is hope that the on-loan Georginio Wijnaldum will remain in the capital next term.
The Giallorossi are just one point behind reigning champions AC Milan in fifth place in the Serie A standings, but also have a route into Europe’s premier club competition by winning the UEFA Europa League, where they face Dutch side Feyenoord in the quarter-finals.
Mourinho keen on experience and familiarity
Having arrived on a one-year deal in June 2022, many saw Matic as a temporary solution as coach Jose Mourinho continued to mould his Roma side. The 34-year-old was already familiar with the Portuguese tactician’s coaching methods from their time together at Chelsea and Manchester United.
However, with 26 Serie A outings this season, Calciomercato is reporting that the Serbian international has met the objectives required to activate an automatic renewal for another 12 months, regardless of the experience and tactical awareness that remains vital to the Giallorossi.
In addition, long-serving teammate Bryan Cristante – who joined Roma in June 2018 – will also add a sense of continuity to the midfield, with the 28-year-old having reportedly agreed to extend his stay in the capital until 2027. All that is missing is the official announcement.
Permanent purchase of Paris Saint-Germain star unlikely
Life at Roma got off to a bad start for Wijnaldum after he suffered a broken tibia which saw him miss the 2022 World Cup. Thanks to the lengthy recovery spell, the Netherlands international has been unable to prove his worth to Roma since arriving on loan from Paris Saint-Germain last summer, despite Champions League and Premier League winner’s medals highlighting the quality he brings to the team.
Therefore, with the Ligue 1 club looking to secure €10 million for the Dutchman’s permanent transfer, Roma general manager Tiago Pinto is expected to push for an extension to the 32-year-old’s loan agreement, that would keep him with the club until the end of next season.
