Pisilli on Growth Under Gasperini: 'I Want to Become the Player He Wants'

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is actively working to secure contract extensions for defender Celik and winger El Shaarawy, viewing both as important members of Roma's core squad. While Paulo Dybala and Lorenzo Pellegrini's futures at the club appear more settled, Celik and El Shaarawy's situations were previously uncertain. Gasperini has made clear his intention to retain both players, valuing their technical ability and character within the group. Gasperini has emphasized his commitment to building around a reliable, competitive nucleus already invested in the project. Speaking at a recent press conference, he expressed frustration at external doubts about the squad's potential, stating: "Me it bothers that there are those who think this is a group for fifth-sixth place and that it cannot go beyond. If these players had had support and more reinforcements, with someone stronger alongside them, maybe they would have reached higher goals." He further stressed the group's qualities: "This is a very strong group, with a solid base. They always put their face on the line and always play, they never give up. They are always present and, when they lose, they take it badly: not everyone is like that. These are values to strengthen, not to dismantle to take who knows who." Gasperini's push for renewals reflects his desire to maintain continuity while seeking additional quality additions to the squad in future transfer windows.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini spoke forcefully during his post-match press conference following Roma's victory over Fiorentina, which moved the club closer to fourth place. Despite the win, Gasperini expressed frustration over ongoing disagreements, stating: "If I have to work with the ideas of others, it's better to leave." He emphasized the need for clarity and an end to misunderstandings, referencing several conflicts with Massara throughout the season. Gasperini praised the squad's character and resilience, defending the group against criticism that it cannot achieve higher positions. He argued the team deserves credit for maximizing potential without additional reinforcements, and that avoiding future conflicts will be essential next season. He noted that Roma's position three matches from the end provides momentum heading into crucial fixtures, including the derby against Lazio scheduled for mid-May, which Gasperini downplayed diplomatically by suggesting rain might affect perceptions of the match timing. The coach stressed the importance of team unity and challenged the notion that Roma cannot compete for top honours. His comments reflect underlying tensions between the coaching staff and the sporting structure that have surfaced periodically during the campaign.

Gianluca Mancini addressed the media ahead of Roma's Serie A match against Fiorentina on matchday 35, discussing the team's cohesion during a challenging period. The defender emphasized that the squad has remained unified and expressed gratitude toward former manager Ranieri for his contributions. Mancini's comments reflect Roma's efforts to maintain morale and focus as the season progresses. The exact timing of Ranieri's departure and the specific context of his role remain unclear from the available information.

Roman radio commentators have offered largely optimistic assessments of Roma's position in the Champions League race. Lorenzo Pes from Tele Radio Stereo highlighted Roma's belief in their project and the impact of Wesley's return, stating: "The Roma is a team that believes in what it does and feels good, and this is the difference with the competitors. The difference that Wesley makes is total for this team, now we have seen Konè again, Roma of the starters has returned and this makes you hopeful. In the Champions League race there is now also Milan, which seems to me the one clearly in worse shape. Juventus also has pitfalls, now the pressure is on the others. We have to try, given the condition of the opponents." Piero Torri (Radio Manà Sport) praised Roma's physical condition and highlighted Niccolò Pisilli's development, noting the midfielder's ability to play as a deep playmaker and box-to-box option. Roberto Pruzzo (Radio Radio Mattino) emphasized the importance of dialogue between head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and sporting director Massara, citing Gasperini's history of creating both conflicts and strong relationships with club leadership in his previous roles. Marco Valerio Rossomando acknowledged mutual responsibility for decision-making, referencing the summer pursuit of Jadon Sancho as an example where both the coach and director made strategic choices that required evaluation. Francesca Ferrazza noted Gasperini's forceful recent communication, describing his direct approach in press conferences.

Inter Milan has turned its attention to AS Roma following their Scudetto success, with plans to rebuild their squad for the coming season. The club is actively pursuing two Roma players: defender Gianluca Mancini, whose contract expires in 2027, and midfielder Niccolò Pisilli, under contract until 2029. Inter's strategy focuses on rejuvenating the squad, making both players attractive targets regardless of the future of their current defensive setup. Mancini and Pisilli represent different stages of the rejuvenation plan. Mancini, a seasoned defender, could arrive at Inter even if other defensive changes occur, while Pisilli offers younger potential for a long-term project. The move reflects Inter's ambition to strengthen following their title-winning campaign, though Roma is expected to resist any approach for either player. Roma's position on both players remains firm, with the club unlikely to facilitate departures despite interest from the Nerazzurri. The situation highlights the appeal of Roma's current squad to Italy's top clubs, though concrete negotiations have not been reported.

Roma delivered a commanding performance at Stadio Olimpico, defeating Fiorentina 4-0. The victory showcased a dominant display from the Giallorossi, with Hermoso earning standout praise from Italian newspapers for his defensive contributions, while midfielder Niccolò Pisilli was noted as influential across all areas of the pitch. The comprehensive win underlines Roma's attacking prowess and solid structure under current management, with multiple players earning positive marks from the press. The 4-0 scoreline represents a thorough dismantling of their opponents.