Following a draw in Group C of this year’s edition of Europa League with the likes of Real Betis, Ludogorets and Helsinki, Roma General Manager was asked to comment on the Giallorossi’s ambitions for the season as well as the club’s ongoing transfer window with links to Andrea Belotti and Mady Camara.
“When you reach this level in Europe, it is always difficult. Betis are a team we know very well. They had a wonderful campaign last season, we had the opportunity to play with them in the summer of last year,” he told Sky Sport.
“It will be an important challenge. It is a competitive group, but we are here to move forward in the competition. We have the responsibility to do well, win the group, to move forward. That is our goal right now,” added the Portuguese director.
Regarding the market, Pinto did not go into too much detail. “It’s not over yet, we still have 4-5 days and I have work to do, so we’ll see what happens. We’ll work hard until the end of the transfer window in order to have a stronger team than last season. Our fans can trust us on this.”
Pinto discussed the emergence of several younger talents over the past year. “Last season Zalewski, Bove, Darboe, Boer and Felix started several times for us, then we also gave a chance to Missori and Volpato.”
“The coach follows the youth sector a lot. Now Faticanti and Volpato are the guys who have greater potential going forward. They have quality, but also the responsibility to work and be professionals. We are fortunate to have Mourinho who gives plenty of opportunities to younger players.”
On Wijnaldum’s recovery, Pinto concluded, “I think he’ll be our strongest reinforcement for January,” alluding to the Dutchman’s return from injury.
