Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini was interviewed by Sky Sport today ahead of this weekend’s clash against Torino. These are his words:
The league begins again.
Certainly we have to do better than the first round and we are aware of that. To get into the top four, we need to do better.
Which technical aspects does the clash with Toro present?
It will be a good challenge — they’re not coming here for a stroll in the park. They will be motivated and ready to play their football. Everyone wants to win but we have to want it more because we’re at home.
What about fourth place?
It’s not at risk right now because despite the difficulties in the first round of the season, I am confident. I believe we can reach our goal and finish in the top four. It would be an absurdity not to get there. We have to do better than the first round and win matches. We’re into the quarterfinals for the Coppa Italia after a great atmosphere against Entella.
There’s competition for the trequartista role with Zaniolo and Pastore.
There’s three of us for one place, but I always put myself at the disposal of the manager. I played as a mediano against Entella and felt good there, even though I’m freer when I play higher up. Right now, I’d even play as a fullback for the team.
What changes do you have to make when playing as a mediano instead of a trequartista?
The thing I like most about the trequartista is that you do not have to think too much about tactics while as a mediano, you certainly have to be far more aware because you have to shield the defence. I’ll try to get used to that role, though, the more I play there.
When you hear on TV that your name is linked to PSG, what do you think?
I don’t think anything — I turn off my TV, get into my car and go to Trigoria.
Would you like to be captain?
Representing your city and its colors is a beautiful responsibility and a great honor. Wearing the armband in your city means something more. I’m working with the club to continue growing.
If you had to decide whether to reach the top four, win the Coppa Italia or return to the Champions League semi-final, what would you choose?
Arriving in the top four is a goal, but it would not be my choice. We set the goal for ourselves to reach the Coppa Italia final. But I would like to repeat the Champions League semi-final because of the joy of the fans. Seeing Roma play in the semi-final was an incredible emotion.
