Roma’s decision to part ways with Daniele De Rossi has seemingly breathed new life into the Italian giants. Ivan Juric’s tenure began on a triumphant note, as Roma secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Udinese on Sunday. This morale-boosting win marked Giallorossi’s first triumph of the season, following a sluggish start.

As Roma prepares to host Athletic Bilbao in their UEFA Europa League opener, the Stadio Olimpico faithful will be eager to witness a continuation of this resurgence. The past three European campaigns have been remarkable for Roma, with the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League title followed by consecutive deep runs in the Europa League. Roma’s home record in the group stage has been impressive, with seven wins from nine matches across the last three seasons. Their sole defeat came at the hands of Real Betis. This statistic will bolster confidence as they welcome Athletic Bilbao. The Basque outfit has regained momentum after a slow start to the season. Four victories in their last five outings, coupled with eight goals in their previous three games, demonstrate Athletic’s growing potency. This European clash marks Athletic’s first since the 2017/18 Europa League campaign, where they topped their group before bowing out in the last 16. Their record in Italy is less impressive, with only one win in their last nine competitive matches. However, Athletic’s recent away form offers encouragement. Four victories in their last six competitive travels, including consecutive September wins, suggest Ernesto Valverde’s men are capable of posing a threat in the Eternal City.

Artem Dovbyk’s recent form has been crucial for Roma, scoring the opener in consecutive matches. Athletic will need to nullify the Ukrainian’s influence, having already faced him in La Liga last season. Gorka Guruzeta’s brace last weekend has propelled him to the forefront of Athletic’s attack. The Spanish striker has scored all six of his last goals in the first half, emphasizing Athletic’s propensity to start strongly. With both teams seeking to assert their authority in the Europa League, this encounter promises to be an enthralling contest. Roma’s renewed vigour under Juric will face a stern test against Athletic’s resurgent force. As the Europa League group stages commence, Roma and Athletic Bilbao are poised to embark on a high-stakes adventure. The outcome will significantly influence the landscape of this season’s competition.

Roma’s European pedigree will be pitted against Athletic’s growing momentum. The Stadio Olimpico will be abuzz, urging the Giallorossi to secure a victorious start to their Europa League campaign. Juric’s tactical acumen will face a stern examination against Valverde’s experienced Athletic outfit. The battle for supremacy in Group will commence in earnest.In this captivating encounter, individual brilliance will play a pivotal role. Dovbyk’s scoring prowess, Guruzeta’s first-half heroics, and the goalkeeping exploits of Rui Patricio and Unai Simon will shape the destiny of this clash. The stage is set for an unforgettable Europa League opener. Will Roma’s resurgence continue under Juric, or will Athletic Bilbao’s away form prove decisive? The world will be watching.

As the referee’s whistle signals the start, Roma and Athletic Bilbao will embark on a thrilling journey, each driven by an unrelenting desire for victory. The Europa League beckons, and these two proud clubs are ready to take centre stage.

Best Tip: Roma win or draw

Correct score: 3-1