Gianluca Petrachi, the former Sporting Director of Roma, appeared on Radio Sportiva today and, once again, discussed his departure from the club earlier this year.
Petrachi was sacked by Roma in late June for what the club labeled “gross managerial misconduct” after having been on the job for less than one year.
“I say this with a smile, it takes a bit of effort to watch Roma on the television. It was a very difficult and unexpected separation,” Petrachi admitted.
”It’s tough to see a coach plus 8-9 of the eleven players on the pitch be guys that you brought, your team. It’s obvious you’ll feel something and it’s difficult to detach yourself from it especially when you haven’t yet started a new adventure at another club.”
“I cheer for Roma out loud — there are many exceptional guys who have shown a lot during a difficult period at the club, which included a change of ownership and the departure of your Sporting Director. These aren’t simple dressing room dynamics to deal with — even those who are a part of the ‘old guard’ at the club are excellent professionals. Plus you have a manager who was able to unite everyone during this unusual period.”
The former Torino executive then discussed the deal he secured earlier this year to bring former Barcelona attacker, Pedro, to the club on a free transfer from Chelsea.
”When I talked about him with the manager, many thought Pedro was nearing the finish line because he didn’t play much,” he said. “But when I talked to Zappacosta about him, he told me about a guy who was always at 1,000 in training and was a great example for the young players.”
“We decided to take a shot on him because he could play all of the attacking roles in Fonseca’s formation. I’d also like to mention that we got Mkhitaryan for zero, nothing. He’s a top guy and a true leader, he doesn’t talk much — but he’s a leader.”
Finally, Petrachi addressed what could be in store for his future as he still finds himself without a club after his acrimonious split from Roma.
“I have the desire to turn the page. I tried to make it clear to the new owners of Roma that I would gladly continue the job that I started — but that’s not a possibility now,” he conceded.
“I have to think about starting over. There’s been some contact but whoever winds up getting me will get someone who dedicates himself day and night to what he does.”
