Roma defender Roger Ibañez was interviewed today by LaRoma24 and discussed a variety of topics regarding his time in the Italian capital, including the team’s Conference League title won in May.
The Brazilian recounted the Giallorossi’s journey throughout the tournament and admitted their was a feeling amongst he and his teammates that they had what it takes to win the entire competition.
“That day on the 25th of May was unforgettable for everyone in Albania and for the supporters,” he said.
“In order to tell the full story you’d have to start at the beginning of the competition and the path we took to end up winning. It was really unique but an indescribable feeling.”
“Almost right away we had a feeling we could win this competition and ultimately we did so. This feeling never waivered even after that defeat in Bodø. That match helped us realise you learn more from a loss.”
He added, “That loss was a ‘good’ one because it helped us learn how to be a more cohesive group, a family. From that moment on we stayed united.”
As for the upcoming season, the former Atalanta man made it clear he and his teammates have one goal in mind—aiming to improve on their sixth place league finish in Serie A.
He also touched on his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho and his thoughts about the arrival of Paulo Dybala on a free transfer.
“We’re preparing for the season but we all want to finish in a Champions League place, this is our goal,” revealed the defender. “However, we have to be completely focused right away in order to achieve the objectives we’ve set out.”
“As for the manager, everyone knows his story, he’s incredible both as a coach and person. He’s been very important for me. He’s really good at relating to players.”
Finally, “Dybala? Obviously we all know his quality and strengths, he’s a very good player and a really good guy.”
“Right now we’re integrating him into the group so he can feel settled better. Even in training he displays how incredible of a player he is, he has a crazy amount of quality.”
