Chelsea were ready to offer around €60 million plus the loan of Jamie Gittens, the very winger Roma were desperately seeking.
But Gian Piero Gasperini wouldn’t listen: Manu Koné had to stay at Trigoria. This wall was erected on the final day of the summer transfer window, and, in light of what happened in the following months, it speaks volumes about the French midfielder’s importance to the team’s stability.
This behind the scenes look is revealed today by Il Messaggero, which emphasizes how the relationship between Koné and Gasperini wasn’t always easy, especially towards the end of last season. Now, however, the situation has changed.
The Frenchman has become one of Roma’s key players, especially for his ability to protect the defense, win back possession, and quickly transform defensive play into attack. The numbers confirm this.
Returning to the starting lineup against Sassuolo after a three-week layoff with a muscle injury, Koné completed all 56 attempted passes, winning five of six duels and recovering three balls. It was a solid performance, which restored Gasperini’s role as a key player in midfield.
