Paulo Dybala has all but confirmed his departure from AS Roma at the end of the season, stating that Sunday's derby against Lazio will likely be his final appearance at the Stadio Olimpico in a Roma shirt. The Argentine forward revealed that his contract includes a clause triggering his exit after the next two Serie A matches, and that the club has not approached him about a renewal.
Speaking after Roma's dramatic 3-2 win over Parma, Dybala told reporters, including those from La Gazzetta dello Sport, "The match against Lazio will probably be my last at the Olimpico under the Roma shirt. The club hasn't contacted me for an extension. My contract says I'll leave Roma after the next two games." He added, "I'd like to know what the future holds, but I prefer to keep my opinion to myself for now."
Dybala's time in the Italian capital has been a mixed bag. Arriving from Juventus in the summer of 2022, the 32-year-old made 138 appearances for the Giallorossi, scoring 45 goals. However, injuries have repeatedly hampered his impact, preventing him from playing more than 28 Serie A matches in any single season. This campaign, he has started just 13 league games, underscoring his frustrating spell in Rome.
Despite flashes of brilliance, Dybala struggled to carry Roma to sustained success. While the club reached the Europa League final in 2023 and embarked on memorable European runs, they have failed to qualify for the Champions League during his tenure—a goal that remains within reach this season. Roma currently sit fifth in Serie A, level on points with fourth-placed AC Milan, with two matches remaining. A return to Europe's top competition would be a fitting farewell, but Dybala's departure seems inevitable regardless.
Beyond Roma, Dybala is expected to leave Italy for the first time in 14 years, with a return to his boyhood club Boca Juniors the most likely outcome. The forward began his Serie A career at Palermo before starring for Juventus and later Roma. His exit would mark the end of an era for a player who, at 32, still has the quality to perform at a high level but has been hampered by persistent physical setbacks.
The decision not to extend Dybala's contract reflects Roma's strategic shift under new ownership, focusing on younger talent and financial sustainability. Dybala's wages, combined with his injury record, made a long-term commitment risky. For the player, a move to Boca offers a chance to end his career in Argentina, where he could become a central figure once again.
Dybala's omission from Lionel Scaloni's preliminary squad for the upcoming World Cup adds another layer to his story. While he remains a talented playmaker, his lack of consistent game time and recent injury issues have seen him fall out of favor with the national team setup. A fresh start in Argentina could help him rediscover his best form and perhaps force his way back into the international picture.
For Roma, Dybala's departure will require significant squad planning. The club will need to replace his creativity and goal threat, although his absence also frees up wages and opens the door for a more reliable attacking option. With a potential Champions League spot on the line, the final two matches—against Lazio and then Empoli—will define not only Roma's season but also Dybala's legacy at the club.
As the Argentine prepares to bid farewell, his words carry a sense of acceptance. "I prefer to keep my opinion to myself," he said, hinting at disappointment but also resignation. His Roma adventure may not have lived up to expectations, but it provided moments of magic and a connection with the fans. The curtain falls on Sunday's derby, and then a new chapter begins, likely in Buenos Aires.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.