Former Roma president Sensi backs team's Champions League bid after Ranieri's departure

Rosella Sensi, former Roma president, has commented on the club's managerial situation and Champions League ambitions. She expressed confidence in Gian Piero Gasperini as a "great coach," and stated that as a supporter she feels reassured following Claudio Ranieri's departure. Sensi's backing comes as Roma reshapes its technical staff under new direction. The club continues to pursue Champions League qualification, with the former president's perspective offering insight into the confidence surrounding the current project despite recent transitions.

Antonio Cassano has renewed his criticism of AS Roma during his podcast, claiming the squad is of very poor quality and advising head coach Gian Piero Gasperini to consider leaving the club. Cassano's comments add to ongoing debate about Roma's competitive level and squad composition. The former player's remarks come as Roma continues its season under Gasperini's management, though the specific context of the podcast episode and any detailed reasoning behind Cassano's assessment remain unclear from the available information.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has made his preference clear to Roma's hierarchy: he wants to keep all players currently on expiring deals, including Paulo Dybala, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Zeki Celik, and Stephan El Shaarawy. Gasperini stated his intentions after establishing his authority at the club, and the board will need to manage the financial implications of extending these contracts. Roma's leadership has long prioritized reducing payroll, and renewal decisions represent the most straightforward cost-cutting approach. Dybala, the highest-paid squad member, would need to accept a significantly reduced salary given his injury history, as would captain Pellegrini. Celik, whose status has improved this season, is reportedly seeking higher wages. However, Bryan Cristante and Gianluca Mancini have already agreed new terms. Gasperini values the group's cohesion and harmony, preferring to maintain squad stability if possible, though recent poor form briefly halted extension discussions. Dybala has not yet reached agreement with Boca Juniors and reportedly prefers to remain at Roma for another season. The negotiations remain complicated by uncertainty surrounding the sporting director's position. A successful qualification for the UEFA Champions League could provide additional budget flexibility and prompt a revised contract strategy.