Roma: can they challenge for the Serie A title?

Roma, were one of the best and most clinical sides in Europe at the start of last season - but instead of keeping consistent, they started to lose key matches and eventually lost their form. 

They eventually finished 2nd place with 85 points, 17 behind the league champions Juventus who ended up steamrolling past the opposition and only lost 2 games all season - making it look easy for the teams behind them.

After their 2nd place finish, Roma have consequently qualified for the UEFA Champions League this season, which they will hope does not act as a distraction from their domestic duties.  

Having only conceded 25 goals in 38 matches, it highlights that their defensive capabilites are strong but they need a potent striker who can score 20 goals+ a season.

Mattia Destro and Francesco Totti were leading the top scorer charts for Roma; but they had only scored 23 goals between them. 

If they can sign a world-class striker, they should have no trouble doing well in both the Champions League and Serie A.

Everyone criticizes the Serie A, saying that it is a "one-team league", just because Juventus have dominated it for a few years. However, that is not true, and it's the job of teams like Roma and Napoli to go against the stereotype. 

Juventus have a world-class team, that's true. But, they are not unbeatable. People should realise that. 

FINAL VERDICT: There is no real reason why Roma cannot challenge for the title, and do one better to win the trophy itself this campaign upcoming. But they know that it will not be easy, they will have to stay consistent throughout and avoid injuries at all costs. 

They have proved that they are an improved side in recent years, and their current transfer business suggests that they are hungry for titles, which is encouraging to see. 

Ashley Cole has joined Roma from Chelsea, and his experience will be greatly appreciated

Wonderkid: Iturbe signed for Roma, the transfer fee around £17million pounds from Porto

Shrewd business: Also.... announced the free signing of Milan midfielder Urby Emanuelson

The loss of midfield maestro and Dutch playmaker Kevin Strootman in January was a big void left in the centre of midfield alongside Pjanic and de Rossi - perhaps if they have all of their players fit then they are less likely to make mistakes and can challenge Juve to make for an intriguing watch.

I will have Serie A action, match reports, LIVE Commentaries and more over the coming season, alongside the biggest European leagues currently. So get ready, the new season is only a few weeks away!