Rosella Sensi backs Gasperini appointment, confident despite Ranieri's departure

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.

Rosella Sensi, former AS Roma president, has expressed confidence in the club's ability to compete for a Champions League place. Speaking at an event in Montecitorio, Sensi said: "I was at the stadium on Monday. I saw a great match, a beautiful Roma, a beautiful team, a great coach, so let's keep our fingers crossed because we are one point behind Juventus. We have few matches left so we can fight," noting that Roma remain in contention with several fixtures remaining in the season. Sensi's comments come in the aftermath of tensions that led to Claudio Ranieri's exit from the club. When asked about reassuring supporters, Sensi declined to take on that role, stating: "It's not my job to reassure the fans because I am a former president and as a fan I am at peace." The former president emphasized the emotional connection Roma's supporters maintain with her, particularly in memory of her father, who was instrumental in Roma's history. Ranieri had managed AS Roma during the 2024–2025 season before departing amid reported internal disagreements. Sensi's measured response reflects the club's focus on remaining competitive during the final stages of the campaign, with the goal of securing European football for next season.