Roma have handed Santiago Castro his first start just hours after completing his €35m move from Bologna, as the striker lines up in a pre-season friendly against Cardiff City. The match kicks off at 15:00 UK time at Cardiff's home ground, with Castro forming a trident with Paulo Dybala and Matias Soulé.
What happened in the lineup?
Gian Piero Gasperini wasted no time in giving Castro his debut, starting him ahead of Donyell Malen. Wesley, who missed the 2026 World Cup due to injury, also features after his red card in Roma's last friendly against Cannes. Cardiff, who finished 2nd in League One last season with 91 points, field a strong side with players like Willock and Tanner.
Why is this friendly significant?
This is Castro's first appearance in a Roma shirt, and Gasperini is testing his new attacking options. Cardiff, coming off a 5-4 loss to Mansfield Town in their last match, will use this game to fine-tune their squad ahead of the new League One campaign. Their recent form shows 3 wins and 2 losses in their last 5 games.
What comes next for Cardiff?
Cardiff will focus on closing the 12-point gap to leaders Lincoln City in the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Roma will continue their pre-season preparations, with Soulé still on the transfer market for €30m.
