Koné Ruled Out After Scan as Dybala Faces Short Layoff

Overview

• Koné pulled up after 17 minutes of Roma’s Champions League game with Real Madrid and an MRI on Friday confirmed a first-degree muscle injury that will sideline him for immediate fixtures.
• Gian Piero Gasperini said the club is targeting a return for Koné before the next international break while stressing the player needs careful recovery because of his recent right-leg muscle problems.
• Dybala was withdrawn at half-time with calf muscle fatigue and Gasperini said the forward is expected to be available again next week.
• Both players will miss Roma’s home Serie A match against Genoa, leaving the coach short of several regular starters including goalkeeper Mile Svilar, midfielder Bryan Cristante, and suspended forward Donyell Malen.
• The absences force Roma to reshuffle a thin squad for upcoming Serie A and Champions League fixtures and raise concern over Koné’s recurrence risk given his recent thigh and hamstring injuries.