Roma boss José Mourinho praised his team’s focus after they extended their league unbeaten after beating Sampdoria 1-0.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s 27th minute goal was enough to sink Marco Giampaolo’s side, who presented very little attacking threat.
The win also boosted Roma’s hopes in a top four finish given Atalanta’s defeat against Napoli this afternoon and ahead of Juve’s face-off against Inter.
“It was a tough game,” Jose Mourinho said to DAZN during his post match interview.
“Giampaolo’s team’s are organised and have their philosophy. But the culture in Rome is that you’re in heaven if you win the Derby and it’s disaster if you don’t–thankfully we managed to keep our feet on the ground.”
He added, “The most important thing was winning tonight and we did so. Perhaps we could’ve done better to add a second goal but we still managed the game really well.”
“As for our goal, if it had been any other manager there’d be talks about what beautiful football it was building from the back but since it’s me, it’s probably tough to admit.”
“But I liked how we managed the second half. Again, I would’ve liked another goal but it’s an important win for us.”
“During yesterday’s press conference, I wanted to point out how often some prefer to only discuss the negative aspects rather than talking about a youngster such as Zalewski.”
“Or for example they’ll say I’m not a fan of Bryan Cristante and want to sell him. This is the same guy who played very well tonight.”
The Special One was also asked about the future of attacker Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who has experienced a rebirth under him this season.
“He’s having a great season. I want Miki to stay here and he wants to, too. The club and Pinto also want him to remain here. Mino Raiola loves his players so it should be fine.”
