Roma coach Daniele De Rossi admits that winning the derby against city rivals Lazio felt different as a coach. The Giallorossi secured a vital 1-0 win thanks for Gianluca Mancini’s headed effort, and speaking after the game, De Rossi talked through his teams performance and explained that he still has room for improvement;
“Winning a derby is always great, but as a coach, it’s a bit different. It had been a while since Roma last won this match. During the game, I found myself more distracted; there was much more tension. I even asked the fourth official if the scoreboard had broken because time seemed to stand still.”
“In the post-match, the players went to the stands and brought me there – he continued -. I enjoyed a few hugs with the fans.”
Reflecting on the previous week’s match against Lecce, De Rossi commented, “We always need to maintain this level. Against Lecce, I couldn’t convey the same energy.”
Regarding Abraham’s return, he stated, “I needed two strong players upfront. Anyone entering a derby is always pumped, and after nine months of hardship, he couldn’t wait to return. From day one, he kept saying, ‘I can’t wait.’ But it will take some time before we see the real Tammy.”
With eight wins in eleven matches, De Rossi was asked about his contribution. He responded candidly, “My merits? I despise false humility. This opportunity came to me out of the blue, a tremendous chance to coach talented players. Sometimes they overlook my flaws. There’s still room for improvement, but there’s also some merit. From future captain to future coach? I don’t want to be treated as a former footballer but as a true coach. I feel like a present coach.”
During the press conference, De Rossi added, “There are many people who deserve acknowledgment. As a child, a man raised me, instilling values, a passion for Roma, and now for this absurd job, so I think of my father. My journey is about finding what pleased him; I can’t even imagine being content today.”
