Former Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini has been one of the main advocates for Paulo Dybala’s move to the Italian capital.
The Italian executive has been thoroughly impressed with the Giallorossi’s big summer signing and reiterated his admiration for the Argentine international’s talent in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I immediately realized what a talent he was the first time I saw him play at Palermo,” he told the Italian newspaper.
“At the time I was working for Roma and we couldn’t afford him,” Sabatini remarked when asked about whether he had scouted Dybala during his tenure at the capital club.
“I’m not surprised with how well he’s doing now. He’s a champion, a deadly sniper. Roma did extraordinary business in signing him,” he added.
“Mourinho’s presence at the club was decisive in Dybala’s choice and I am not surprised: the influence of the Special One on the players is enormous.”
“There is no such team that wouldn’t regret not acquiring Dybala. And Roma is never a second choice, because this club is clearly undergoing major changes and wants to continue to develop.”
Finally, Sabatini dismissed a question about Dybala’s release clause which would allow him to leave the club next summer. “I can only tell you that those who come to Roma hardly ever choose to leave. Here there is a fan base that knows how to push you towards all kinds of goals. The welcome they gave Paulo was something exceptional.”
