Tarantino on failed Roma return: 'An opportunity that did not materialize'

Jeremías Lazaro, a 2004-born midfielder at Argentine club Instituto Córdoba, revealed that Paulo Dybala contacted him via video call through a mutual connection to offer representation services. Lazaro declined the offer, as he had already signed with another agent, but praised Dybala for providing advice during a period when he was playing little. Lazaro said of their conversation: "With him I had a chat, we spoke on Instagram, I made a video call with him because, well, he wanted to be my representative. But I had already signed with my current agent. Obviously we remained on excellent terms, there's a desire to meet at some point, which will surely happen. But I'm really happy because he's a fantastic person. He gave me a lot of advice and, honestly, talking to him reassured me." Dybala founded a Milan-based consulting firm called La Favorita srl over two years ago, which manages athlete image rights, endorsements, and intellectual property across multiple platforms including artificial intelligence and blockchain-based assets like NFTs. The venture reflects Dybala's broader business interests beyond his playing career at Roma, similar to how Francesco Totti established his own management company. The arrangement shows Dybala is actively building a portfolio in sports representation and consulting, positioning himself for post-playing opportunities in football management and athlete advocacy.

AS Roma's pursuit of a new sporting director is approaching conclusion. Tony D'Amico is currently in Bergamo negotiating the termination of his contract with Atalanta, a necessary step before he can officially join Roma as director of sport. The two clubs have yet to reach full agreement, however, with D'Amico expected to forfeit certain monthly payments as part of the exit deal. Atalanta president Luca Percassi is reportedly unwilling to expedite the arrangement, which may delay D'Amico's arrival at Roma until 1 July, when he will gain full decision-making authority at the club. Meanwhile, head coach Gian Piero Gasperini continues to pursue English winger Mason Greenwood as a primary transfer target. Marseille has set Greenwood's asking price at €55 million. Should that move prove unfeasible, Roma has identified Peixoto (referred to as Paixão in transfer discussions) as a backup option. Complications have also emerged at Fenerbahçe, where uncertainty surrounds which of two candidates will secure the English player's signature.

Francesco Totti spoke from Istanbul during an EA7 World Legends event, reflecting on Roma's recent performance. The Roma legend expressed surprise that the club reached the Champions League, suggesting he had not anticipated their qualification. Totti also offered commentary on the Italian national team, though details of his specific remarks remain unclear. His comments highlight ongoing interest in Roma's competitive progress under current management, while Totti himself remains in discussions regarding a potential role with the club for its 2027 centenary celebrations.