Following Roma’s dominant 3-0 victory over Pisa, Gian Piero Gasperini directly addressed the media regarding any perceived tension with Claudio Ranieri. The Roma manager firmly refuted suggestions of any discord between them, asserting that the team’s sole focus remains on securing a Champions League spot in the remaining six league matches.
Earlier in the day, Ranieri had commented on proposing several managerial candidates before Gasperini’s appointment, with some declining the offer. He also noted that his suggestions to the owners are independent of the coach’s directives.
When asked about his reaction to these comments, Gasperini responded with clarity and composure.
“I have never had a disagreement with Ranieri; quite the opposite,” Gasperini stated, as reported by TuttoMercatoWeb. “I suggested two players I wanted, and one of them arrived. I pointed out the need to strengthen our attack due to the departure of several forwards, but beyond that, everything was fine. There was never any opposition between us. I have always concentrated on my work.”
When pressed further about whether he felt out of sync with the club’s strategic direction, Gasperini was characteristically direct.
“Don’t joke with me. My focus is singular. I have six games to play, starting with a very strong opponent next. We are in a good position, and at worst, we will be one point ahead of them.”
Gasperini drew a parallel to his time at Atalanta, recalling how his team overtook Roma in the standings as evidence of his understanding of the current challenge.
He was effusive in his praise for Donyell Malen, whose hat-trick was the highlight of the match at the Stadio Olimpico. Gasperini also admitted to the fortunate circumstances surrounding Malen’s signing.
“Malen is extraordinary,” he declared. “The key question was whether he could play as a centre-forward, and I got that right. He has the pace, the ball control… we played against him in pre-season, and when you see certain players, you immediately recognize quality.”
With a smile, he added that he had no prior knowledge of Malen’s availability from Aston Villa until just two days before the deal was finalized, attributing it to good fortune rather than exceptional scouting prowess on his part.