Roma manager Paulo Fonseca was confident in his pre-match press conference early this afternoon ahead of his side’s league fixture tomorrow against Sampdoria.
Fonseca revealed that his side worked well in training this week despite a shorter holiday break as they prepare for their first match since their 3-2 victory against Cagliari on the 23rd of December.
“The team is doing well and came back motivated after the break. The team has trained well this week and we’re ready to begin the new year in the best way possible,” explained the Portuguese tactician.
“I would have liked to have had a longer break, but we realise that’s not possible this season, there isn’t time for extended breaks. We have a lot of games ahead of us and while the consensus is that we need to give the players more rest, it’s just not possible.”
Fonseca was then asked about incoming compatriot and the Giallorossi’s new General Director, Tiago Pinto. The 36 year-old officially began his new role with Roma yesterday but he has yet to arrive in Italy after he tested positive for COVID-19 just under two weeks ago.
“Tiago and I have been talking and now we’re just waiting on him to get here,” Fonseca revealed.
in regards to tomorrow’s fixture and who will be available, Fonseca reiterated that, “Pastore is not ready. He only just returned from a long injury and needs continue working before he can be called up.”
“As for Sampdoria, they’re have a good campaign and Claudio Ranieri is doing a great job, he’s a fantastic manager. They’re very strong so I expect a difficult match tomorrow.”