Roma manager Ivan Juric addressed the media ahead of his team’s Serie A match against Monza, emphasizing the need for improvement and adaptation in a congested fixture list.
Juric began by highlighting the team’s potential for growth: “In this period, we have a large margin for improvement, both in terms of ideas and as a team. To compete well on all fronts, we need to use as many players as possible.”
Reflecting on the recent Europa League defeat to Elfsborg, Juric acknowledged areas for improvement: “I think we had several clear chances. However, we need to work on the final third; these things need to be improved. The players perceive that we arrive and have great qualities. If we want to do it well, we need to raise our level.”
Regarding team selection, Juric emphasized a cautious approach: “We go step by step. Some things I’m fine with, others I want to change. If the responses are positive, I don’t want to upset things too much.”
The manager also addressed the tight turnaround between matches: “We returned at 5 AM, then today we’ll have the final training session, and we hope to recover as best we can. We have little time, but that’s okay.”
Juric touched on the recent managerial change, referencing captain Lorenzo Pellegrini’s comments: “I think Lorenzo explained well what happened the other day in the press conference. Obviously, we need to push hard for the general good of the team, and the boys understood everything immediately.”
Finally, Juric praised the fans’ support: “The negative situation is clear now, but the presence of the fans is fantastic. There’s always high pressure that gives a lot of adrenaline. From negative, it can transform into something beautiful in my opinion.”
Looking ahead to the Monza match, Juric emphasized its importance: “Getting the third win would be a big step, something we wanted to achieve, like a small final. It ends a cycle of 5 games, winning this would be fantastic.”
