Former Torino and Italy manager Gian Piero Ventura – who recognized Andrea Belotti’s talent and brought the striker to Torino from Palermo in 2015 – discussed in a lengthy interview with Centro Suono Sport the 28-year-old’s progress and decision to join Roma as a free agent.
“I had seen him play in Palermo and in my opinion he had great potential. At that time we were looking for players who could help us achieve financial and sporting results while still young. He had all the characteristics we were looking for,” said Ventura.
“I think Roma have made a great deal, but then obviously the pitch will have the final word on the matter. In the three years that I worked with him, he never skipped a workout, every time he trained with everything he had and it was synonymous with great professionalism.”
On Belotti’s ups and down with Italy, Ventura sounded optimistic, “I am convinced that Andrea will return to the national team, last year he had a tough time but I believe that Roma made a great deal in signing him.”
“Roma find themselves a hungry player, who has that fire which perhaps had faded after so many years with Torino. In my opinion he will be an important player for Serie A and certainly also for Roma.”
“I am sure he will meet this challenge with great determination. I knew him as a player with a great fire inside.”
“I know that Mourinho will get along well with Belotti because he is a full-on professional. Mourinho will be happy with him.”
