Interviews

Roma legend Sebino Nela: “Ranieri is the right choice.”

(Photo by Getty Images)
Andy Mattioli

Roma legend and Hall of Fame member Sebino Nela spoke in favor of Claudio Ranieri’s appointment as Roma’s new head coach.

In an interview with Il Tempo, Nela backed the veteran technician, arguing that he is the right man for the job at this difficult time.

“I think it’s the best solution,” said Nela. “I think an interim coach of Ranieri’s caliber could be very useful in a particular moment of the standings, of the team’s performance and also for the Romans.”

“Then in May we’ll talk about it again, if the owners decide to bring in another coach, but this seemed the most logical solution to me.”

“Ranieri’s future executive role at Roma? If Ghisolfi were to stay, a technical director of Ranieri’s caliber could be very useful.”

“As you recalled, he also said that other figures would be needed, I totally agree with that. This would “lighten”, if we want to put it that way, the president’s work. Once the club is structured, the president can take care of his business calmly.”

“This team can repeat what it has done in recent years in terms of standings, which is to participate in a European competition. I don’t know if it’s the Champions League, Europe or Conference, but we are in line with past seasons. In my opinion, this is a good team.”

“One thing is certain: you have to get to work, chat as little as possible and think exclusively about the pitch. Ranieri can do very well, because he is an experienced coach and good at communication, something that has become fundamental in Rome.”

“I know what a great responsibility footballers have. There are no excuses when you work for a coach who has been doing that job for 20 years. You can’t always blame the coaches.”

“And those in the locker room, who I don’t know, who have more responsibility, must make themselves available to everyone, because it’s a collective job.”

“Now the coach arrives, whether you like it or not, you have to do what he tells you, without too many stories, otherwise you won’t get anywhere.”

“The Friedkins? An owner can stay away from the city, from the club. The important thing is that there are people who know how to manage a football team well. I put myself in the shoes of the coaches: they have to hold pre- and post-match press conferences, both in the league and in the cup.”

“In all of this you always have to hope that things go well because every Sunday we also have to deal with refereeing errors. I believe that a manager of substance, recognizable even by the public, is necessary, because the coach cannot always go in front of the camera to explain.”

“We hope that together with Ranieri the club can also introduce new management figures.”

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