Shakhtar Donetsk’s Head of Scouting, José Boto, discussed this Thusday’s Europa League showdown against Roma.
The two clubs will square off in the Italian capital in two days for the first leg of their double-fixture. Boto, who joined the Ukrainian side from Benfica in 2018, conceded that it’s going to be a challenge for his side.
“Roma are a great team so I wasn’t happy with the draw,” he admitted to Rete Sport.
“They’re a tough team with a great manager and a candidate to win this competition. We would’ve preferred to meet them later on but we’ll face them as best as we know how. We will play our football and try to exploit our strengths.”
He continued, “I know Fonseca very well, he’s one of the best managers in the world and could coach any team right now. Having worked with him here at Shakhtar, I’m well aware of his worth, his methods, and how he deals with things inside the changing room.”
“As long as he has the support of the club, I’m convinced that he can be very important for the club. I’ve followed Roma since I was a child during the days of Conti and Falcao. In my opinion, people need to be more patient with the club. This is something that’s required if you want to become a great team.”
Boto was then asked about the rumors from the summer that linked him with a move to the Giallorossi. The 55 year-old was said to be one of the on the short list for the General Director role, which was ultimately filled by Tiago Pinto.
“I’m fine here at Shakhtar so I’d prefer not to comment. I respect Tiago Pinto and it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to talk about it.”
He added, “There’s so many inaccuracies in the world of football. We have an important game upcoming against Roma so this is what I prefer to focus on. As for Pinto, though, we worked together at Benfica. He’s a simple guy with a lot of character.”
