As Roma search for their third manager of the season following Ivan Juric’s dismissal, speculation is rife about who will take the helm at the Stadio Olimpico. According to Caliomcercato, Roberto Mancini remains the frontrunner, but a surprising twist has emerged with the possibility of Rudi Garcia making a return to the club he led from 2013 to 2016.
The Friedkin Group, Roma’s owners, are under pressure to make a swift and effective appointment. Rumors circulated that they were spotted in Ladispoli at the luxurious ‘La posta vecchia’ hotel, a claim the club has strongly denied. Nevertheless, some fans expressed their frustration by displaying a banner outside the hotel reading “Friedkin Go Home.”
Several names have been linked to the vacant position, but some are already fading from contention. Edin Terzic, formerly of Borussia Dortmund, and Frank Lampard seem unlikely choices at this point. A return for Daniele De Rossi has also been ruled out, despite his recent conciliatory comments.
The unexpected emergence of Rudi Garcia as a potential candidate has caught many by surprise. Garcia’s previous tenure at Roma was largely successful, securing second-place finishes in Serie A in consecutive seasons. Currently unattached, Garcia is available following his brief stint with Napoli last year.
However, Roberto Mancini remains the favorite for the position. The former Italy national team coach is reportedly seeking a contract of at least two and a half years with a salary exceeding €5 million. Other candidates like Paulo Sousa and Vincenzo Montella face obstacles due to existing commitments or high release clauses.
As the Friedkins deliberate from their European base in London, the Roma faithful anxiously await an announcement. With crucial matches on the horizon, including a clash against league leaders Napoli, the new manager will need to hit the ground running to salvage Roma’s faltering season.
