As Roma prepare for their upcoming match against Atalanta, head coach Claudio Ranieri spoke to the media about various topics, including team dynamics, player management, and the importance of fan support. The Giallorossi are looking to build on their recent performance against Tottenham and find consistency in their play.
Ranieri emphasized the need for his team to be well-prepared for Atalanta, a side he described as “a perfect machine.” He praised Atalanta’s impressive track record, noting their offensive capabilities and tactical discipline. “Atalanta has scored 35 goals after their loss to Como. They are first in goals scored, first in goal opportunities, and second in crosses,” he said. He acknowledged the challenge they pose, stating, “This team will eat you alive, and I don’t want my players to be eaten.”
The coach also highlighted the importance of making the fans proud. “We need to make our fans fall in love with us again. When things aren’t going well, they express their frustrations. We must give our all, and they will understand if we do,” he noted.
Ranieri discussed the versatility of his players, particularly focusing on Alexis Saelemaekers. “He loves playing high on the left but has told me he feels comfortable on the other side as well. He needs to help the team,” he explained. The coach is keen on finding players who can adapt to various situations on the pitch.
When asked about the influence of Atalanta as a model for Roma, Ranieri acknowledged their success as an example to follow. “Atalanta has become an emblem of Italian football. They have gradually improved and are now a force in Europe,” he stated, adding that patience is crucial for Roma’s development.
Ranieri also addressed Paulo Dybala’s role within the team. “I evaluate Dybala training session by training session. He can face challenges, and I need to understand them,” he said. He emphasized Dybala’s impact when he is fully engaged, recalling his assist for El Shaarawy against Tottenham.
Regarding Lorenzo Pellegrini’s current form, Ranieri reassured fans about his mental state: “I told him to enjoy himself and reset his mindset. He is sensitive and feels the pressure deeply.” He clarified that Pellegrini was not responsible for Daniele De Rossi’s departure from the club, stating that neither Pellegrini nor teammates Mancini and Cristante wanted De Rossi to leave.
Ranieri concluded by discussing Artem Dovbyk’s situation, noting that while Dovbyk faced minor knee issues in Ukraine, he is now fit and ready to contribute. “We know how to serve this striker better; we just need to help him,” he said.
