Interviews

Udinese executive Federico Balzaretti protests refereeing decisions in defeat to Roma

Andy Mattioli
UDINE, ITALY - AUGUST 20: Federico Balzaretti, former Italian footballer and current director of football at LR Vicenza ahead of the Serie A TIM match between Udinese Calcio and Juventus at Dacia Arena on August 20, 2023 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Udinese sporting director Federico Balzaretti protested the referring decisions behind tonight’s display against Roma.

After the Friulani fell in the final minutes at the Stadio Olimpico, Balzaretti stepped in front of the cameras at DAZN.

“On a technical level it was a difficult match in the first half, in the second half we were the better team. We had deservedly drawn and then we wanted to win it. We have to continue to build on the second half,” said the ex-Roma fullback.

“Nervousness on the bench? Whoever referees at the Olimpico must show more personality than what we saw this evening. You come to referee in a stadium that conditions you, the fans here put pressure on officials, they are good at it.”

“Rome is a team and a city that I will carry in my heart forever. They were fantastic years as a player and as a manager. Playing against them and seeing the Curva Sud is always exciting.”

Match Center

MatchDay 36
12 May 20:45
Atalanta
ATT
Roma