The new season saw one of the biggest Italian clubs left without a manager already after first two rounds. Luciano Spalletti obviously had enough after his team was demolished in the derby against Juventus and right after the game he resigned from the post of Roma boss. New coach on Roma bench, Claudio Ranieri stated on his presentation that he will try to shake things up, so his team could contend for the title this season. Ranieri signed a two-year contract worth six million Euros and he will have the chance to make a debut in ten days when he and his men travel to Siena.
“Spalletti’s Roma played attractive football, but my philosophy is somewhat different This team asks for pragmatic approach. We must shake things up a bit, as it is about time for the team to start improving the results. Perhaps the players have low self-esteem” said Ranieri, who was born in Rome.
Roma lost to Genoa 3:2 in the opening round and then lost to Juventus (3:1). Roma president, Rosella Sensi admitted to have been surprised with Spalletti’s resignation. “I respect Spalletti, but I didn’t expect the captain to be the first one to leave the sinking ship. Still, I suppose he had his reasons for such a decision”, she said. Three years ago, Spalletti came in second with Roma but last season they were sixth.
“In the last four years this team have had several remarkable results, together with attractive play in Europe. Fifteen months ago, Roma were only a half an hour away from the champion’s title. As a Roman, I am very proud to have seen such Roma. I came back home eager to achieve success together with my team” said Ranieri.
Ranieri started his playing career in Roma, season 1973/74 but he made only six caps in the A squad. After that he left the capital and played for Catanzaro, Catania and Palermo. So far in his coaching career, Ranieri lead Fiorentina, Valencia, Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, Parma and Juventus that sacked him last year.
The financial problems prevented the Roman club from signing some big names and the play still depends on 33-year old captain Francesco Totti. Club president was welcomed in the training centre with the graffiti from the fans that ask for her resignation.
“I agree that we didn’t live up to the expectation last season and didn’t get off to a great start this season. But we have brought several youngsters back in the transfer window and it seems to me that the team possesses certain quality. The nucleus of the team is the same, but I can understand fans’ dissatisfaction”, said Sensi.
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I wish him all the best. Its a difficult job but lets see how he goes on about it. Good luck.