Ranieri sends message to Dybala: ‘Champions should not be tamed’ | OneFootball

Claudio Ranieri sent a motivational message to Roma star Paulo Dybala during his pre-match press conference ahead of the first leg of the Europa League round of 16 against Athletic Club, insisting that ‘champions should not be tamed’.

Roma, who have been on an impressive run of form under Ranieri this calendar year, will host Athletic Club, who finished the Europa League league phase in second place level on points with Lazio at the top, at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night.

Dybala is expected to line up as usual in the Giallorossi starting XI despite playing the full 90 minutes in the 2-1 victory over Como in Serie A at the weekend.

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 02: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma is put under pressure by Maximo Perrone of Como during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Como at Stadio Olimpico on March 02, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Ranieri fires up Dybala: ‘Champions should not be tamed’

While there is an expectation for every player to work hard on the pitch, Ranieri encourages Dybala to treat the game differently to some of his teammates.

Asked if there is anything in particular he would like to say to Dybala during his pre-match press conference, Ranieri replied: “To have fun, he has to have fun.

ROME, ITALY – FEBRUARY 24: Roma Head coach, Claudio Ranieri looks on during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Monza at Stadio Olimpico on February 24, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“Everyone has to run and fight, and he has to have fun. Champions like him should not be tamed, but they should be supported and given a lot of balls in. He has wonderful vision.”