Ranieri moved by Roma banners on Stadio Olimpico return | OneFootball

Claudio Ranieri seemed genuinely moved as he took in all the banners welcoming him ‘back home’ to the Stadio Olimpico as coach of Roma for the third time.

The 73-year-old had retired over the summer after taking Cagliari first to promotion and then safety in Serie A, but was convinced to get back in the sport to rescue his beloved Giallorossi.

His two games so far were away from home, a 1-0 defeat at Napoli and 2-2 Europa League draw with Tottenham Hotspur in London, but this evening he was at the Stadio Olimpico against Atalanta.

See how it all unfolds on the Liveblog.

It is the third different spell as Roma coach after 2009-2011 and again as caretaker from March to June 2019.

Roma fans welcome Ranieri home

epa11753674 Roma’s coach Claudio Ranieri (R) looks on during the Serie A soccer match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC, in Rome, Italy, 02 December 2024. EPA-EFE/ALESSANDRO DI MEO

There were numerous banners in the stands marking the occasion and thanking Ranieri for his decision.

‘In the days of the storm and in those without the wind in our sails, as a real Roman you did not hesitate for a moment,’ read one.

‘In our moment of need, you stood up and answered the call, now receive the gratitude of your people,’ was another.

‘Make them honour the shirt the way you know how, come on Claudio.’

‘Ave Claudio, the people of Rome hail your return.’