The Calcio Perspective: Why Roma’s Coach Ranieri Should Retain Soule in the Starting Lineup

Matias Soule’s (21) brilliance is shining through. At the Tardini Stadium in Parma, it was the Argentine donned in the number 18 jersey who proved pivotal in the encounter between Parma and Roma, executing a remarkable free kick that has drawn comparisons to Diego Maradona’s iconic strike against Juventus in 1985, and to one of the many memorable goals scored by Francesco Totti during his illustrious career with the Giallorossi.

Following the match, Soule maintained his humility, which is commendable, yet his left foot hints at a future among the elite. Of course, to become a true champion—one who reliably makes an impact—demands patience and tireless effort, but the innate talent he possesses is unmistakable.

So far, Claudio Ranieri has deployed him sparingly, almost as if by design, making each rare start feel like an unexpected gift—a regrettable state of affairs, although it’s understandable given his competition with Paulo Dybala, a player whose place in the starting eleven is rarely in doubt. Nevertheless, moments like this demonstrate that Soule merits more time on the pitch.

The crucial free kick was preceded by an astute through ball from Eldor Shomurodov, marking one of the Uzbek striker’s finest contributions since joining Roma. Soule sprinted after it and was fouled just on the edge of the box.

Initially, the referee pointed to the penalty spot, believing that the infringement took place inside the area, but a VAR review accurately determined the foul occurred just outside.

A free kick resulted, along with a red card for the opposing defender. Then came the pivotal moment. Soule and Leandro Paredes stood over the ball, while Gianluca Mancini hesitated to let the young Argentine take the shot, despite Soule’s impressive record from set pieces, which included a goal for Frosinone last season.

Yet ‘Mati’ insisted on taking the shot and ultimately got his wish. His left foot delivered an absolute cracker, its perfectly calibrated trajectory instantly reminiscent of Maradona’s famous free kick—a sight forever etched in the memories of countless Argentinians and football aficionados.

The ball nestled into the net, Roma surged ahead, and Soule savoured a dreamy afternoon.

Even following that stunning goal, Soule continued to make significant contributions, aiding his team in clinching the three points. He nearly added a second for himself, winning the ball in the penalty area before forcing a brilliant save from the Parma goalkeeper, Zion Suzuki.

While it would have been the perfect conclusion, what really matters now is that Ranieri keeps him on the field. This is Soule’s moment to build consistency, to play, to learn from mistakes, and to evolve. Errors are an inevitable part of the journey, but squandering talent of his calibre would be nothing short of tragic.

He possesses everything needed to ascend to the ranks of champions, and it is now the responsibility of his coaches to nurture him along this path. The evening in Parma may well mark the beginning of something remarkable for Soule.