Roma manager Daniele De Rossi shared his thoughts following the 1-1 friendly draw against Olympiacos in Rieti. The Giallorossi have been among the most active during the transfer window, securing the likes of Matias Soule, Artem Dovbyk and Enzo Le Fee. Speaking after the match De Rossi confirmed that there were more moves on the horizon, and began by analysing his team’s performance:
“We did some things well in both halves, others not as much. I wasn’t pleased that we went back to the goalkeeper too often. It’s important to use the keeper to draw out opponents, but constantly playing around in our own box when pressed is dangerous and serves no purpose. We know what we need to do and we’ll improve on it.”
Regarding Tammy Abraham’s performance amid transfer rumors linking him to Milan, De Rossi stated:
“He didn’t seem off his game to me. He played like the others did. It’s not easy to be sharp in just 45 minutes when I have to make substitutions and give everyone playing time. I didn’t see him out of form at all.”
When asked about potential midfield pairing Le Fée with Paredes, De Rossi expressed:
“I like him. But we’ve been calm through all the transfer rumors. If we signed a player, it’s because we think he’s important. I know the player’s value, so I’d be relaxed even if he played less well today. Of course, we’re all happier when he performs well like today.”
On Roma’s transfer activity following Dovbyk’s signing, De Rossi revealed:
“Dovbyk and Soulé are very important players. I’m fortunate to have a club behind me making these kinds of investments. I know more will come because this club wants to do things properly. It’s been tough weeks of work both on the pitch and on the phone. We’re happy these deals have gone through. Some happen more easily, while others like Dovbyk’s needed intervention from the top. President Dan Friedkin stepped in at one point and unblocked everything. These things get resolved at levels above us, so I thank him for that as well.”
