Gasperini on Roma's three-year title plan: 'We wouldn't mind moving it forward'

Gian Piero Gasperini has outlined Roma's long-term strategy in an interview, stating that the club's blueprint targets a Serie A title within three years but remains open to accelerating that timeline. "Our plan was to get there in three years. We wouldn't mind bringing it forward," Gasperini said. "But we are aware that the road is long. In football there are no straight paths or clear routes. There will be ups and downs. If we manage them well, who knows…" The interview took place at an event marking the launch of Gasperini's Freisa 3-4-3 wine, named after the tactical formation that has defined his managerial philosophy. When asked about the comparison between the wine's modest status—it is not considered at the level of Barolo or Barbaresco—and Atalanta's rise, Gasperini reflected on his attachment to building something great gradually from a lower starting point. "It's an excellent grape, but it's not a big one, not considered at the level of Barolo or Barbaresco. My grandfather and my father bottled Freisa from demijohns. I have an emotional bond with Freisa. And I love the idea of building something great, step by step, starting from a rung perhaps below." Gasperini also addressed his departure from Atalanta after nine years, where he secured consistent Champions League qualification and won the Europa League. He acknowledged that leaving came when he "realised it was humanly impossible to do more." On his emotional farewell press conference last season ahead of Roma's fixture against Atalanta, he disclosed his deep connection to Bergamo: "Bergamo was the longest and most intense stage of my existence as a wanderer of football. I have no regrets, but I feel a profound nostalgia for a community where I had integrated perfectly. Unsurprisingly, I often go back. I miss everything about Bergamo." He revealed he has not sold his house in Bergamo, leaving open the possibility of a future return.

Lorenzo Pellegrini returned to speak ahead of Serie A's resumption after the international break, offering an update on his fitness and Roma's title ambitions. The midfielder, honoured at the twelfth edition of the Giuseppe Colalucci Prize, confirmed he is available for selection after two substitute appearances before the pause and declared himself ready for the restart. "I feel good, we're also celebrating my return to the pitch," Pellegrini said. "This break was perfect because it gave me the chance to train and push. I'm very happy and charged for this restart." Roma sit top of Serie A after five matches, and Pellegrini acknowledged the unusual situation of entering the campaign with genuine title hopes. When asked whether fans can dream of the Scudetto, he said: "Fans must dream just like anyone in sport—nobody takes to the pitch thinking they'll lose. We all dream. There were five matches where the lads were exceptional. There are always doubts at the season's start, but from training I could see the level is high. I'm pleased because we deserve this enthusiasm. Let's carry on this way until March and then set more concrete objectives." On Roma's next fixture against Como on Sunday and whether it might determine who emerges as Inter's main challenger, Pellegrini was cautious. "It's hard to say—we're still in the early stages of the season," he explained. "Now it restarts after a long break, which is new for us too. We have lots of fixtures because we'll also play in the Champions League. It's complicated to say this match will decide the anti-Inter contender. It will be a good match for sure, the best thing for people watching."

Lorenzo Pellegrini expressed confidence in Roma's title ambitions while speaking at the twelfth edition of the Premio Giuseppe Colalucci. The midfielder said fans should dream of the Scudetto and stated he is ready for his return to action, though he cautioned that clarity on Roma's championship credentials will come in March. Pellegrini's comments underline his commitment as Roma continue their campaign this season. His readiness to feature again marks an important moment for the squad's depth and attacking options as the club pursues silverware.