Following his recovery from a ruptured Achilles tendon, Roma fullback Leonardo Spinazzola is looking to return to his best form.
The Italian international was recently interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport where he was asked about several topics including Dybala’s decision to join the Giallorossi, working with José Mourinho and the impact of winning the Conference League.
“We can raise the bar and aim to qualify for the Champions League and I think we’ll succeed,” said the Euro champion.
“The group has been working with the coach for a year, plus we’ve seen many good reinforcements come in recently.”
“In such a tight season it’s what you need, otherwise you inevitably end up losing something along the way.”
“Dybala’s an incredible player: he can score or make the game-winning play at any time.”
“He’s somebody who helps you win games. And he’s also a kind, quiet guy, one who always applies himself. A great person.”
On Mourinho, Spinazzola commented, “Last year he gave me a big hand in my recovery, he gave me strength and tranquillity.”
“He jokes on the pitch, but he wants you to work very, very hard. If you give him effort he asks for, then in return he gives you so much.”
“He is a transparent and direct person. And if you don’t have these skills, you can’t coach teams like Real Madrid or Chelsea, with the best players in the world. And above all, you can’t win everywhere like he did.”
When asked about the importance of winning with Roma, Spina compared Italy’s celebrations for winning Euro 2020 and Roma’s for their recent Conference League win.
“I know that after the victory of the European Championship there was less than half of the crowds we saw on May 26th in the streets of Rome.”
“At Juventus winning was normal. Here it’s not, and we all needed it: the team, city, club and fans.”
On Georginio Wijnaldum’s potential arrival in the capital, the fullback concluded, “With him you raise the bar in terms of quality and experience.”
