Lorenzo Pellegrini’s future at Roma has taken a dramatic turn following his stellar performance in the recent derby against Lazio. The Roma captain, who had been the subject of transfer speculation, has seemingly cemented his place in the team and silenced critics with a crucial goal in the 2-0 victory.
Gazzetta dello Sport report that the match on January 5, 2025, proved to be a turning point for Pellegrini. Reports suggest that on the eve of the derby, he approached manager Claudio Ranieri, expressing his unwavering desire to play despite recent criticism from fans. Ranieri, known for his psychological acumen, recognized the player’s determination and gave him the nod to start.
Pellegrini’s decision paid off spectacularly. Within ten minutes of kickoff, he scored a beautiful goal, reminiscent of his previous derby heroics. This moment not only helped secure the win but also rekindled his connection with the Roma faithful, who gave him a standing ovation when he was substituted later in the game.
The goal and overall performance have drastically altered Pellegrini’s trajectory at the club. Previous rumours linking him with a potential January move to Napoli have been quashed. Instead, there’s now talk of a possible contract extension beyond his current 2026 expiration date.
Roma’s management are reportedly considering discussions about Pellegrini’s long-term future, especially if the team continues its upward trajectory under Ranieri or a potential high-profile manager in the future. The club sees Pellegrini as a central figure in their ambitions to climb higher in the Serie A standings.
For now, Pellegrini is taking a brief respite, embarking on a short vacation in Trentino-Alto Adige with teammate Gianluca Mancini. Both players have experienced a resurgence under Ranieri’s guidance, which has fostered improved team spirit and on-field performances.
