Gasperini on Roma’s preseason training, the market and more | OneFootball

Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini spoke to reporters gathered at St. George’s Park in England as the Giallorossi enter the final stretch of preseason.

“We’ve done well so far,” said the Italian technician when asked to evaluate Roma’s preseason.

“We’re now in the final stages of preparation. This is an ideal place for the climate, and we have these already challenging matches, which are good tests.”

“Dybala? He’s here with us and is following a differentiated program to recover from his surgery. We know it’s a situation that needs to be monitored, but we hope that next week, once we return to Rome, he’ll be able to rejoin the group.”

“The market? There are some roles that need to be filled. Everything will depend on how strong we can be in the attack, and that will determine the strength of the team, which is taking shape.”

“All teams spend huge sums on forwards. The offensive department is the most sought-after and most expensive. Teams with strong attacking players are more competitive.”

“Dovbyk? He was paid a good sum. He’s proven to be a valuable center forward, he’s scored his goals. We’re working to improve some of his weaknesses, like his ability to be in the game. He shouldn’t be too early or too late; it’s like in music: if you’re out of time, it’s a problem.”

“I’m happy with all the lads, who have been commendable. It’s a team that works hard, that has team spirit, that has a sense of belonging. You can say many things, but not that there’s a lack of commitment and attachment to Roma.”

“Wesley? He’s a player Roma were looking for. I knew him well because we had practically sealed the deal with Atalanta, but then it fell through at the last minute. It wasn’t a specific request of mine, but a profile the club was pursuing for that position. We’re talking about a 2003-born player who plays for the Brazilian national team and has plenty of room for improvement. Playing for Flamengo at that age means you already have a lot of experience. If he were a complete player, he would have cost a different sum.”

“Echeverri? I never talk about individual players who aren’t ours, I’ve never mentioned names. I have great respect for Roma’s scouting department, which is top-notch. I can sometimes make suggestions, but the line is clear: I like good players.”

“The captain’s armband? There’s no such problem. I’ve always given the armband to the player with the most appearances in the team. There are no other hierarchies.”

“Ghilardi? He fits the profile of what Roma is looking for and the reason why I was called. There is this need on the part of the owners to work and build with a view to the future with young players, with the prospect of creating a squad that can, over time, become increasingly stronger.”

“The boys are all doing well. I found a great group of guys who want to have a good season.”