Gian Piero Gasperini, at the end of Roma-Lazio (2-0), spoke with satisfaction in a press conference about the derby victory: “It’s undoubtedly like this, but we’re happy.”
“Today it couldn’t have been any other way, but now it’s up to us without placing our hopes on the others. The match in Verona will be important and difficult: all the teams are giving it their all. We’re happy with the derby, and then we have a week… if we were to win, it would be an extraordinary season.”
The Giallorossi coach has always stated that qualification for next season’s Champions League would be decided on the final matchday: “I’ve played a lot, and I’ve always played until the very end in the Champions League. I knew that during this period, it would be a different season. We’ve given each other so much: the partnership has been wonderful, and I’ve always thanked the group, which I’ve never had any doubts about.”
The Roma coach is positive about his first year in the capital: “This season is extraordinary for what we’ve achieved: I’ve never had any problems with the team, and like me, they’ve always believed we could achieve this result. Now there’s only one game left, and we should be good: it’ll be a great challenge.”
Gian Piero Gasperini wants to win something important: “Absolutely yes: I gave myself three years. Reaching the Champions League was difficult, I had set myself this goal. When it comes to a sustainable team, you only become one through results, and you always need to raise the bar.”
The Roma coach expressed satisfaction with the bond he’s created with the Giallorossi fans: “It’s always been sold out, and it would have been today too. This only happens in a few places. I knew that, as a Piedmontese, formerly of Juve and Atalanta, I was the least suited to connect with them. But I’m here to play football, and the people appreciated me for that. Results matter, but what’s even more important is having gained credibility: that’s worth more than a Scudetto.”
For the Grugliasco-born coach, Mancini’s goals aren’t a coincidence: “Let’s not joke, it’s not a coincidence. He’s already scored plenty of goals like this: in a derby, though… they’ll remain indelible in his career.”
