Interviews

Mourinho ahead of Empoli kick-off: “We have great potential.”

Andy Mattioli
ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 01: Jose Mourinho, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the Serie A TIM match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on September 01, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Roma boss Jose Mourinho was asked about the team’s status ahead of tonight’s match with Empoli.

Minutes before kick-off at Stadio Olimpico, Mourinho said to DAZN, “We’re still not close to our potential. If we’re allowed to play all together, without any absences, for even a 4-5 game stretch, then we have great potential.”

“Renato Sanches? We all have love for him, all those who have known him since he had no physical problems. In recent years, unfortunately, even a very strong team like Portugal is still waiting for him, missing his qualities.”

“He has high potential. In recent years he has suffered due to injuries. He must grow progressively, today it is perhaps premature to play him as a starter. But we learned that Aouar couldn’t play at all so Renato gets the start. Let’s hope it goes well. The team needs him and he needs the team. The team must do well to help Renato.”

“Smalling’s absence? We only have four central defenders, without him there are three left. If necessary, Cristante can also play, but today we also have many absences in midfield and he is needed there. Llorente will play in the center and it will be Ndicka’s first game with us, as he is learning to play with us. It’s not an exam or a test, it’s an opportunity to grow.”

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MatchDay 33
19 Apr 20:45
Roma
Verona
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