Roma manager Claudio Ranieri addressed the media following his team’s victory against Udinese in the twenty-second round of Serie A. The experienced coach expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance and shared insights on various aspects of the game and the club’s future.
Ranieri began by praising the team’s mentality, which he believes was also present in their recent match in the Netherlands, despite the lack of goals. He emphasized the importance of maintaining this attitude, stating, “This is what we need. If the opponents are better, we’ll congratulate them. Against AZ, we weren’t attentive enough on a throw-in and they punished us. Today, I congratulate the team.”
When asked about squad rotation, Ranieri explained his decision-making process, considering factors such as the heavy, sandy pitch in the Netherlands. He also expressed satisfaction with new signing Rensch’s debut, saying, “I already know what he can give us. His teammates will need to get to know him, but for me, his performance today was positive.”
Regarding the team’s ambitions, Ranieri refused to set specific targets, stating, “I never give illusions to the fans. Everyone talks about three difficult games and then an easy path, but there are no easy games. It’s not important who we play against, but how we prepare mentally. Physically, we’re doing well.”
The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent approach regardless of the opponent. “I want us to go into every match without even knowing who we’re playing against. Facing Como, Parma, Venezia – these are all very difficult matches. Only if Roma plays like Roma will we have our chances,” he declared.
When questioned about potential transfers, Ranieri expressed his desire for a squad of 25 players. He praised the versatility of players like Zalewski and mentioned the arrival of Rensch and the impending departure of Hermoso.
Addressing speculation about Shomurodov’s future, Ranieri stated, “No thoughts about the market. As long as I’m here, the players are mine. Udinese is different from AZ Alkmaar; I thought Shomurodov would be useful here. If there’s an opportunity to improve, I follow the club’s lead, but he’s a serious professional, and I’m happy with him.”
Ranieri also shared his admiration for Kone as a playmaker and expressed his fondness for Lucca, describing him as “an excellent player, young, strong in the air.”
