Gian Piero Gasperini, the head coach of Roma, held a media conference ahead of their Europa League match against Rangers, emphasizing the importance of every moment in the game. He indicated that forward Dmytro Dovbyk is available for selection but highlighted the significance of readiness for the match against a challenging opponent at a passionate stadium.
Gasperini acknowledged the difficulty posed by Rangers, particularly following their recent successful performances since the appointment of a new coach. He stressed that Roma must be in peak physical condition to handle the energetic style of play that Rangers are expected to bring, describing the upcoming match as a strenuous test of their athletic capabilities.
Looking ahead, Gasperini noted the need for Roma to secure vital points in their next fixtures, particularly focusing on the importance of winning at least three of the remaining five games in their group to ensure qualification. He pointed out that all teams in Europe are well-prepared, making every match challenging. He also mentioned the difficulties faced by Italian teams when confronted with a higher tempo of play, contrasting the fast-paced matches typical of European competitions with those in Serie A.
He reflected on past encounters, acknowledging that the dynamics change based on game situations, like taking the lead. Despite their current struggles with conversion rates, Gasperini expressed confidence that creating scoring opportunities is a positive sign.
When addressing the idea of resting players, Gasperini rejected the notion, stating that players rest at home rather than during matches. He also clarified that while rotations might occur, his approach is more about managing player conditions during the games. He further provided updates on squad selections, confirming that stars Paulo Dybala and Leon Bailey will miss the match, but expressed faith in the capabilities of his squad—including the promising forward, Soule, who has shown potential despite facing the challenges of consistency.
Roma’s commitment to victory in their upcoming clash against Rangers underlines their determination to advance in the Europa League, with Gasperini confident in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion despite the hurdles they anticipate ahead.