In their final match before the international break, Roma won 3-0 against Sassuolo, benefiting once again from the presence of Manu Koné, who had been sidelined during the first half against Real Madrid.

The French midfielder immediately delivered a performance of substance and quality: interceptions, free-throws, and a pace-setting performance with the ball at his feet.

The balance that the 2001-born player brings to the team is crucial, so much so that upon his return to the pitch, the Giallorossi team remained clean. A coincidence?

With Koné on the pitch, as reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma have conceded only four goals in eight games (0.5), not including the 17 minutes against Real Madrid. Without the French midfielder, however, the average quadruples: 14 goals (2) conceded in seven matches (including the 3-4 loss to Real Madrid).

This data isn’t solely attributable to the absence of the 2001-born player, but there’s a clear sense that with him, Roma are more balanced and protected.

After the break, Gian Piero Gasperini will be able to rely on his cornerstone again.

While waiting to see what his future holds, Koné will enter the fourth year of his contract at the end of the year, so there are two options: a renewal with a pay rise or a painful transfer. The French midfielder’s dream remains PSG, Roma’s next opponent in the Champions League.