Interviews

Ex-Roma attacker Julio Baptista: “De Rossi must remain cool in the derby vs Lazio.”

Andy Mattioli
AS Roma's Brazialian forward Julio Cesar Baptista celebrates after scoring agains Bologna during their Italian Serie A football match on March 24, 2010 at Bologna's Dall' ARA Comunal stadium. AFP PHOTO / ANDREAS SOLARO (Photo credit should read ANDREAS SOLARO/AFP via Getty Images)

Former Roma attacker Julio Baptista shared his advice for Daniele De Rossi ahead of his first Derby della Capitale as the Giallorossi’s head coach.

In an interview with Teleradio Stereo 92.7, Baptista discussed the highly anticipated clash with Lazio.

“De Rossi is doing a great job, I hope he continues like this,” said the Brazilian footballer.

“Roma have always been a great team, a great club, but to be considered a great team they must reach the Champions League. If Roma starts to qualify to the Champions League with more continuity, for two or three years in a row, they will acquire greater prestige. However, I have always wanted to come to Roma because I have always considered them a great team.”

“All derbies are matches that are decided with details. You have to be ready when you face such a special match, because we know how much the fans care about it.”

“De Rossi must not let the emotions get the best of him; he must remain cool and composed. De Rossi will have seen many Lazio games to prepare as best as possible and I am sure that he will have found the right countermeasures.”

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