Gianluca Mancini: “I would stay at Roma for life.” | OneFootball

Roma defender Gianluca Mancini declared his love for Giallorossi colors in a new interview with Corriere dello Sport.

“From the very beginning, Rome embraces you and draws you into this emotional vortex. They catch you out and about and talk to you about Roma, you meet them at the bar and they ask you why Roma aren’t winning or how strong we are this year.”

“Roma is everywhere; it’s an idea that stands on many legs, and it’s wonderful. Our fans can’t take to the field, so I try to do it for them. Reacting to injustice as they would.”

“Would I stay here for life? Absolutely yes. I’ve been here since 2019, and becoming a symbol would be a dream. I’m Roma for life, I like it.”

“A new contract? We’re not talking about it yet. It’s not a problem for me. There’s no concern whatsoever.”

“The feelings ahead of a derby with Lazio? Your stomach churning, the anticipation almost killing you. You think, I made my debut for Roma in a derby. The rivalry wears you down, that match keeps you awake at night, you’re living a nightmare week and you can’t wait for it to begin.”

“Gasperini? The greatest football and tactics teacher I’ve ever had. On the pitch, he’s a force to be reckoned with, very demanding, and never seeks excuses. With him, you raise the bar, it’s inevitable.”

“Mourinho? A monster who arrived and made me say, “Yes, he can change my story and that of all of us.” José gave us charisma, mentality, and conviction. On the pitch, I was his leader. Sometimes I overdid it, going a little too far… but I did it because I felt he would lead us to victory.”

“Budapest is a wound that causes pain to this day. I never watch images of that Europa League final, I’ve never rewatched that match, and when I scroll through my Instagram reels and find the videos of that penalty before my eyes, I put my phone down. We deserved that cup, that episode condemned us. I was also a negative protagonist with the own goal and a missed penalty. I will carry Budapest forever in my heart.”

“Our objective? A team like Roma can’t stay out of the Champions League for so long. I’ve never played there.”

“Offers from Saudi? There’s been some interest, some enquiries. But I told my agent that I’m too happy here. I love this club and this shirt, and I don’t want to think about anything else.”