Pellegrini back in Roma starting XI after Ranieri protection | OneFootball

Lorenzo Pellegrini is back in the Roma starting XI for the Europa League against SC Braga, after Claudio Ranieri said he was ‘feeling the weight of the club on his shoulders.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.45 GMT.

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game, Fiorentina-LASK and Ajax-Lazio on the Liveblog.

There are numerous surprises in the starting XI, as Paulo Dybala is again used as a False 9, this time with support from Matias Soulé and Lorenzo Pellegrini.

The captain had not featured at all since the 1-0 defeat to Napoli on November 24, which was the debut under Claudio Ranieri.

The coach had explained the notable absence by insisting that he was protecting the player from the virulent criticism he has received from a certain section of the fans and media this season.

Pellegrini was pin-pointed by many as being one of the reasons for the dismissal of local hero Daniele De Rossi, although there seems to be no evidence of that.

Ranieri protected Pellegrini from Roma pressure

NAPLES, ITALY – NOVEMBER 24: Claudio Ranieri AS Roma head coach before the Serie A match between Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on November 24, 2024 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

“I said when I arrived, in my career I worked with two splendid goal-scoring midfielders: Frank Lampard and Lorenzo Pellegrini,” said Ranieri after the 4-1 win over Lecce.

“However, Pellegrini is going through a period where he feels sad inside. He feels the weight of Roma on his shoulders and that is not right.

“When I see him smile and play in a light-hearted manner, then I will play him.”

Considering the midfielder is in the starting XI this evening in the Europa League, it would seem as if he has rediscovered his smile.