Fidanza backs Pisilli to deliver future success at Roma

Actor Claudio Amendola has discussed Roma's season and prospects in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. Amendola expressed approval of the current squad but acknowledged it remains unfinished, noting that patience will be required under new head coach Gasperini. He suggested that if Lazio lose the Coppa Italia final, the derby with Roma will become their match of the year, as it always does, remarking: "The challenge with Roma for Lazials is a reason for life, but basically we should demolish them." On Ranieri's recent departure as Roma's previous manager, Amendola expressed disappointment with how the situation unfolded. He suggested something did not sit right with him about the circumstances, noting that an experienced figure like Ranieri would not typically make the statements attributed to him. He also commented on the organizational structure at Roma, indicating that the current setup may not align with Gasperini's typical requirements, comparing the position to how English football managers are typically supported. Looking ahead, Amendola identified two key priorities for Roma next season: improved results in head-to-head matchups, which he believes have cost the club points this season, and the addition of two attacking wingers to strengthen the squad's offensive capabilities.

José Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, gave an interview to SportWeek discussing his career highlights and successes. The former Roma manager spoke about the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League final, in which Roma defeated Feyenoord 1–0 with a goal by Nicolò Zaniolo. Mourinho claimed he had predicted Zaniolo would score in that decisive match. The interview covered various chapters of Mourinho's managerial journey across different clubs. This reflects on his tenure at Roma, where he led the club to their first European trophy in over 60 years during the 2021–22 season.

Giuseppe Giannini, a Roma legend, has spoken about the upcoming Derby della Capitale scheduled for the following week. In an interview, Giannini refused to make a prediction on the match but stressed Roma's position in the title race. He stated: "The Roma has need of nine points, that's it. Take them all nine hoping that Juve makes a mistake." Giannini's comments reflect Roma's critical juncture in the Serie A season, with the club needing maximum points to stay in contention. His remarks underscore the importance of the derby and the broader championship battle, particularly in relation to Juventus. The legendary midfielder remains closely connected to the club and continues to attend matches at the Stadio Olimpico. Giannini also reflected on his enduring bond with Roma and the stadium. He described his long relationship with the club: "Today I still go to the stadium. I always like going there. And until Roma-Parma I always paid, then I discovered there's a special section for former players. As a child I went with my uncle, we left the car in a little field near Via dei Gladiatori. The Olimpico is home, you come to know even the blades of grass, but it's never the same as the previous time."

Roma's midfield prospects centre on Manu Koné and Niccolò Pisilli, who are viewed as key figures for the club's present and future. The partnership between the two midfielders is seen as potentially driving Roma's performance in the coming seasons. However, the transfer market remains a significant variable that could impact their availability and the club's ability to build around them long-term. Details remain unclear on specific developments or timelines.

Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has identified Koné and Pisilli as his ideal midfield partnership going forward. The pair started together against Fiorentina and impressed with their quality and substance, earning Gasperini's backing. Bryan Cristante was shifted forward on Monday evening, playing as a trequartista (attacking midfielder), with Niccolò Pisilli deployed alongside El Aynaoui in central midfield—a setup repeated during the second half against Bologna when Manu was absent. Gasperini has made clear his vision for Roma's improvement, focusing recruitment needs on attacking areas rather than midfield. The coach is ready to confirm Koné and Pisilli as a central partnership for next season regardless of whether Cristante, El Aynaoui, and Pellegrini remain at the club. Both players are international representatives—Koné for France and Pisilli for Italy—and young with significant potential ahead of them. These midfielders will serve as reliable alternatives available on the pitch. Market activity could alter the situation. Koné and Pisilli, alongside goalkeeper Mile Svilar, are among the most sought-after players at Roma. Gasperini has identified three priority areas for squad improvement: three attacking players to compete with Serie A's top sides, and reinforcements on both the right and left flanks, as well as a left-side defensive winger.

Roma's midfield has been influential in the team's recent success, contributing to approximately 30 percent of the 52 goals scored in Serie A this season. In recent victories against Bologna and Fiorentina, the midfielders made decisive contributions: El Aynaoui scored and provided an assist, Pisilli added a goal, and Koné delivered an assist. Bryan Cristante, though not among the scorers, has maintained his usual presence in the team, missing only one league match due to suspension. Should Cristante play in the remaining three fixtures, he will equal Masetti's record for tenth place in Roma's all-time appearance list with 364 matches. Niccolò Pisilli has shown marked improvement since January, emerging as a standout performer. The midfielder was reportedly close to joining Genoa during the winter transfer window but remained at the club following El Aynaoui's departure to the Africa Cup of Nations. Pisilli's continued development at Roma represents potential significant financial gain if he is sold before the June 30 deadline. El Aynaoui is set to return following a 40-day absence, while Koné has also recently returned from injury. Koné remains a player attracting interest from several top clubs, including Inter, Newcastle, and PSG, amid speculation he could be sold to comply with financial fair play regulations.