Roma defender Gianluca Mancini discussed at length the importance of Jose Mourinho’s leadership as well as the team’s objectives for the year as the season enters its most crucial stretch.
“There’s plenty of charismatic leaders in the locker room,” Mancini said in an interview with Starcasino Sport, one of Roma’s Premium Partners.
“I consider myself a leader in terms of attitude which includes working hard in training and giving everything on the pitch… I think it’s important to keep in mind that there are many leaders within the team.”
“From the moment I first arrived in Rome, I felt something special thanks to these fans. When I came as an opponent to the Olimpico I felt I was in a warm and passionate environment. When I made my debut from the start, in the derby, I felt something inside which to this day continues to make me want to always give everything for the city, the team and my teammates.”
“Mourinho’s arrival was a spark for us. From the day he arrived the stadium was packed on every matchday which gave us a sense of major responsibility.”
“Winning the Conference League was special, even more so after seeing the city in celebration. The goal was to get to the final, the path was tortuous and we knew it, we didn’t know the competition and it turned out to be difficult. Then when you win and bring a trophy to Rome it’s something that stays with you forever.”
“Mourinho? The coach is direct, frank and incisive, he knows how to cradle you and knows how to “beat” you if necessary. He is the true leader of the team and a point of reference. He changed my way of reading matches and game situations. I’ve never played to win like I’m doing with him. He changed the mentality in training: we always give our best and want to improve.”
“The goal for this season is to improve on last year’s standings and, therefore, conquer a placement in the Champions League. Every Sunday we try to win by always giving our best.”
