The tension between Roma fans and the club’s management has reached a boiling point, as supporters continue to express their frustration through increasingly aggressive protests. The discontent among Roma’s fanbase has been particularly pronounced following the controversial dismissal of beloved manager Daniele De Rossi.
The Curva Sud, Roma’s most passionate supporter group, has been at the forefront of these protests. Their dissatisfaction extends beyond the team’s poor performance on the pitch, encompassing broader issues with the club’s management under the Friedkin family’s ownership.
Fans’ grievances are multifaceted, ranging from disappointing results to questionable marketing decisions. One particular point of contention was the release of a training top in a color reminiscent of rival team Lazio’s sky blue, a move that many supporters saw as tone-deaf to the club’s traditions. Another sore point has been the ownership’s reluctance to reinstate the club’s classic badge, a decision that many view as disregarding Roma’s rich history and identity.
The situation escalated further following Roma’s humiliating 5-1 defeat to Fiorentina. A group of ultras confronted the team at Rome’s Termini train station upon their return. Captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, along with teammates Gianluca Mancini, Paulo Dybala, Bryan Cristante, and Leandro Paredes, faced a barrage of harsh words and chants from the angry supporters.
As Roma prepare for their upcoming match, the atmosphere around the club remains highly charged. The Stadio Olimpico, usually a fortress of support, is expected to be only partially filled, with approximately 60,000 fans anticipated. However, the mood is likely to be far from supportive, with whistles and critical sentiments expected to dominate the evening. A banner unveiled by the ultras read: “Club of clowns, team of flops, pack your bags… get the hell out!”