AS Roma does not register Salah-Eddine for the remainder of the Europa League

Anass Salah-Eddine’s transfer to AS Roma was completed just a few days ago, marking a significant move for the young left-back after a promising spell at FC Twente.

The Italian giants saw enough potential in him to agree to a transfer fee that could rise to ten million euros, a substantial investment for a player still in the early stages of his career. However, despite the expectations surrounding his arrival, Salah-Eddine has faced an immediate setback his exclusion from Roma’s squad list for the knockout stage of the Europa League.

The decision has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts, given that Salah-Eddine’s signing was seen as part of the club’s long-term planning for their defensive line. With Roma still competing on multiple fronts, including Serie A and the Europa League, the assumption was that he would have the opportunity to make an impact in both domestic and European competitions. However, UEFA regulations allow clubs to make only three changes to their squad lists for the knockout rounds, forcing Roma to make some difficult choices.

One of those choices worked in favor of Devyne Rensch, another recent arrival who has been included in the Europa League squad. The former Ajax defender, who is capable of playing in multiple positions across the backline, has been identified as a backup option for Spanish full-back Angeliño. Claudio Ranieri’s preference for versatility may have influenced the decision, as Rensch’s ability to cover both full-back positions makes him a valuable asset in a tournament where squad depth is crucial.

In addition to Rensch, Roma’s two other available registration slots were filled by goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini and central defender Victor Nelsson. Gollini, a former Atalanta and Tottenham goalkeeper, adds much-needed depth in goal, while Nelsson, a Danish international, provides another option in central defense. This left Salah-Eddine without a place on the European squad list, a decision that will likely be disappointing for the player, who was eager to showcase his talents on the continental stage.

For Roma, the decision to prioritize other reinforcements over Salah-Eddine is likely a matter of short-term tactical needs rather than a reflection of their long-term plans for the Dutch-Moroccan full-back. With the team entering a critical phase of the season, Ranieri and his coaching staff had to weigh experience, versatility, and immediate impact when selecting their European squad. Salah-Eddine, despite his talent, may still need time to adapt to the demands of Serie A and prove himself before earning a regular place in high-stakes matches.

His exclusion also means that any chance of a potential quick reunion with FC Twente in the Europa League has been ruled out. Roma faces a challenging two-legged tie against FC Porto in the Round of 16, a fixture that will test their credentials in the competition. Meanwhile, Twente will take on Norwegian side FK Bodø/Glimt, hoping to progress further in the tournament. Had Salah-Eddine been included in Roma’s squad, there was a possibility that he could have faced his former club later in the competition, but for now, that remains off the table.

Despite this initial setback, Salah-Eddine’s future at Roma is still full of promise. The club has invested heavily in him, and given the rigorous schedule of Italian football, he will likely get opportunities to prove himself in Serie A and the Coppa Italia. It is not uncommon for young players to be gradually integrated into the squad, especially in a league as tactically demanding as Serie A. His development will be closely monitored, and if he impresses in domestic fixtures, there is little doubt that he will be part of Roma’s European plans in the future.

For now, Salah-Eddine will have to focus on training, adapting to his new surroundings, and making the most of the opportunities he gets in league play. Roma’s decision may be frustrating in the short term, but it does not define his future at the club. With patience and continued progress, he will likely become a key figure in the squad, potentially featuring prominently in next season’s European campaign.