Claudio Ranieri’s unexpected return to Roma for a third stint as manager has sparked a mix of emotions among the club’s fanbase. While many supporters are relieved and grateful to see the 73-year-old back at the helm, some are questioning the process that led to his appointment.
Gazzetta dello Sport report how Social media and radio shows have been buzzing with reactions since the Friedkin Group, Roma’s owners, announced their decision to bring Ranieri back. The move came as a surprise, especially after the club had reportedly considered other candidates, including Vincenzo Montella, who was unable to leave his current position in Turkey before next week.
Many fans have expressed their support for Ranieri, sharing images from his previous spells at the club. During his first tenure in 2009-2010, he nearly led Roma to a Serie A title after replacing Luciano Spalletti. His second stint in 2019 saw him step in for Eusebio Di Francesco. One supporter even likened Ranieri to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, highlighting the manager’s respected status.
Ranieri’s appointment has been largely viewed as a rational choice that needed to be made quickly. Fans have pledged their support, with many seeing him as a steady hand in times of crisis. The sentiment is perhaps best captured by Antonello Venditti’s song “Amici Mai” (Friends Forever), with its lyrics about enduring love that always returns.
However, some skepticism remains, not about Ranieri himself, but about the Friedkin Group’s decision-making process. Critics suggest that the owners may have turned to Ranieri as a last resort after failing to secure other targets. Others draw parallels to the appointment of Daniele De Rossi in January, seeing it as a move to appease fans following José Mourinho’s dismissal.
Despite these concerns, Ranieri is expected to receive unwavering support from the Roma faithful. Many see him as a unifying figure, perhaps even more so than club legends Francesco Totti and De Rossi. There are already calls for Ranieri to transition into a directorial role at the end of the season.
