Mancini talks Wesley and Richard Rios, conveys optimism with Gasperini at Roma | OneFootball

Amantino Mancini, former Roma winger and now sporting director of Brazilian club Aymorés, appeared on Centro Suono Sport to discuss several topics related to the Giallorossi.

The Brazilian weighed in on some of Roma’s transfer targets, including Flamengo’s Wesley and Palmeiras’ Richard Ríos, and remarked on the club’s new era under Gian Piero Gasperini.

“Wesley isn’t just technically gifted — it’s also about his playing style,” Mancini stated.

“He’s a full-back with incredible pace and stamina. His footwork isn’t the best, but he’s physically strong and covers a lot of ground. He pushes forward, tracks back, cuts inside — he’s doing really well.”

He continued, “If Roma signs him, he can quickly become an important player in Italian football. He’s young and has pace — always playing vertically. Like many Brazilians, including myself, his defensive positioning could use work, but with tactical guidance, he could become truly dangerous.”

Meanwhile, Mancini expressed his belief that Rios would be an ideal fit in Gian Piero Gasperini’s system.

“(Richard) Rios can play both centrally and out wide. He’s strong, doing very well at Palmeiras, and still young,” he explained.

“Gasperini likes physical, high-energy players, and Ríos checks all the boxes.”

Finally, the Brazilian was asked for his opinion of Gian Piero Gasperini and whether he believes he can get Roma back into the Champions League.

“Absolutely — he’s the right man for the job,” asserted Mancini.

“With all due respect, Atalanta isn’t the same stature as Roma. At Roma, he’ll have more technical quality, better players, and the backing of 70,000 fans at the Olimpico.”

Adding, “This is the right moment for a coach like Gasperini. Plus, with Ranieri in the front office, they’ve added two figures with decades of experience.”

“Gasp will be able to do well because his teams fight, run, and play physical football. In today’s game, if you’re not physical and don’t win your battles, you’ll struggle. That’s his bread and butter.”