Roma manager Claudio Ranieri spike today ahead of Sunday’s match against Juve. These are his words:
How do you beat Juventus?
It’s a good question. First of all, we must be determined and focused, we know very well that we squandered a good opportunity in Genoa. It is important to show the prideful reaction we need to have. When I arrived it seemed that it was difficult to arrive in a Champions League place, but we are right there and we must not leave any stone unturned. There are three games left, the important thing is not to have regrets. We will give the maximum and then see what happens.
Why do all Italian fans seem unhappy?
I don’t know, maybe because the expectations were different. At some point everyone wants to win but in the end only one wins, so congratulations to Juventus.
Your opinion on Dzeko?
Dzeko is a great player – he’s focused, trains hard. Of course it can happen that you have a season where you score fewer goals. Nevertheless, he’s committed and does a lot of important work for his teammates
Zaniolo? Can Kluivert be important against Juventus?
We spoke about Zaniolo and stated he is a full-fledged midfielder. Right now for me, he’s important both as a trequartista and as a winger, which are not his roles. But he has so much physical strength that he can fill these roles. It’s only logical that in his first season in Serie A as a youngster, he grabs a lot of attention but isn’t at a top level every match. He’s been reassuring in training and determine – this is important.
Conte won’t arrive. Is there any chance you will stay?
I came to Roma because my reaction to getting the call from the club, as a Roma fan, was one of excitement and eagerness to help. My job here runs until the end of the season.
Can De Rossi’s return lead to a change of formation?
It could, I still have these two days to decide on the formation to face Juventus, so we’ll see. I will decide what is best for the team.
Pastore didn’t start after his good performance against Cagliari.
Pastore has trained well this week. He understood my reasons for leaving him out of the starting line-up against Genoa. He could be involved on Sunday
Do you exclude staying? Would you do any promoting (of the managerial position) for Roms? Are there conditions for a winning project?
Once signed I had already decided, that I had come here in a moment of need for my favorite club. When the season ends then my job ends. Of course I would like to promote Roma a bit, it’s a priceless asset and the club I support.
