Galantic on Friedkin ownership: 'They are excited and deeply involved emotionally'

Roma CEO John Galantic spoke to Sky Sport before the club's Champions League match against Fenerbahce on 10 September, emphasising the importance of the competition's return after a seven-year absence and the symbolic significance for the club's centenary year. "It's fundamental to return to the Champions League after 7 years, especially in the year of the centenary," Galantic said. "For the club and the fans it's a very important evening." Galantic confirmed Roma's satisfaction with the summer transfer window, noting that no major players were sold. He stressed the balance required between sporting ambition and financial sustainability within UEFA parameters. Several squad members agreed to reduced wages to remain at the club. "We're very happy they stayed. We've lowered the overall wage bill while also raising the quality of the squad," he said. On the Friedkin Group's emotional connection to the Champions League return, Galantic reported: "There are many messages today and there will be more during the match. One of them is here tonight. They're excited and they're inside this project. They're quiet, they'll have their own style, but they're really very, very involved on an emotional level too." Galantic also noted the club's humanitarian initiative for the Nepal floods.

AS Roma's CEO Guido Galantic spoke ahead of the club's Champions League return on 10 September 2026, stressing the significance of competing in Europe again after seven years, particularly in the season leading to the club's centenary. Galantic addressed the club's summer transfer strategy, confirming that Roma did not sell any major players. "We must, like many clubs, seek a balance between sporting and economic equilibrium that allows us to field the most competitive squad possible while also respecting UEFA parameters, which is not easy," Galantic said. "I thank the ownership and also the players who renewed. Some like Dybala, Pellegrini, Cristante and Mancini took pay cuts to stay at Roma. We managed in the end to reduce the wage bill while increasing the quality of the squad." Galantic underlined that the Friedkin Group's commitment to the Champions League campaign was total, despite their characteristic restraint in public. "They are following us intensely," he explained. "Throughout the evening there will be exchanges of messages. They are excited. They are quiet, they have their own style, but they are really very, very involved also on an emotional level." The return to the continent's elite competition marks a watershed moment for the club under American ownership, coinciding with ambitious plans heading into Roma's centennial celebrations.

Devyne Rensch spoke to Sky Sport before Roma's Champions League match against Fenerbahce, expressing confidence in the team's preparation for the encounter. "I hope it's a good match," Rensch said. "There's no doubt that Fenerbahce are a good side with quality players. They're strong both defensively and offensively, we need to be ready and match the situation. We are. They'll start strong and we need to be strong for that and for the challenge ahead." On Gian Piero Gasperini's arrival and tactical approach, Rensch was positive. "It's going well, very well. I like it a lot, and the other lads in the dressing room do too. The most important thing is always victory of course, and the whole squad and I individually are very happy," he said. Rensch also praised the arrival of compatriot Marten de Roon. "My relationship with him is very good. I've already played with him for the national team and I'm pleased with his arrival. I think he can be a big help to this Roma, both in midfield and outside it. I'm very happy he's come to us," Rensch concluded.