Montella on coaching at Roma: the role of the manager when the club is absent

Radio commentators have questioned Roma's transfer outlay this summer, focusing on the club's pursuit of Rodrigo Mora and Luis Henrique. Carina stated that Mora's arrival will be structured as a loan worth 7–8 million euros—described as "a down payment, because with a loan like that you have to buy him afterwards"—though the player's valuation stands at 50 million euros. Carina acknowledged that Mora had played as a winger under a previous manager when tactics shifted to 3-4-3, adding: "The operation will happen with a loan of 7–8 million, a kind of down payment, because with a loan like that you then have to take him." He noted concerns about the fee level: "At 50 million you have to come here and make a difference." Pruzzo expressed stronger skepticism about the spending strategy, stating: "I cannot believe Roma can spend 30 million for Luis Henrique, who wouldn't even be a starter. I don't believe it even if you show me him landing at Fiumicino." He suggested Roma had 100 million euros available and appeared willing to spend without restraint. Orsi added that Robinio Vaz, another target, represents a 25-million-euro gamble, emphasizing that Mora must deliver immediately given such valuations. All three commentators questioned whether the club was deploying its budget efficiently, with concerns raised about the overall transfer strategy and commission costs.

Roma's interest in Inter's Luis Henrique dominated discussion on Roman radio stations on 12 August, with prominent voices divided on the wisdom of the reported transfer. According to Stefano Agresti, Roma and Inter have reached agreement on the player's transfer, with only the player's approval outstanding. However, legend Roberto Pruzzo expressed strong scepticism about Roma's alleged €30 million valuation. Pruzzo stated: "I cannot believe the fact that Roma can spend 30 million for Luis Henrique, who moreover would not even be a starter. I don't believe it even if you show me him landing at Fiumicino." Ugo Trani suggested Roma could pursue the deal on more favourable terms—a loan with a purchase option or obligation—but cautioned that a straight €30m transfer seemed unrealistic. He also noted that if Roma were to offer €28 million to Inter, the player would likely accept, but questioned whether Henrique was truly a priority given other available targets. Trani added that a more pressing question was whether Henrique could be the key to securing another Inter target, Endrick, for Roma. Nando Orsi raised concerns about Roma's recent spending, citing Robinio Vaz as an example of a €25 million investment who has yet to make a significant impact. He stressed that Roma must demonstrate a clear return on such heavy expenditure.

A new Netflix documentary about José Mourinho became available today, featuring three episodes covering his time at Porto, Chelsea and Inter. The film also includes reflection on his period at Roma, where Mourinho discussed his tenure three years ago. Mourinho drew a parallel between his early work at Porto and his Roma appointment, framing both around achieving objectives aligned with each club's potential. He spoke of having promised to deliver a "small miracle" at Roma, distinguishing his achievements from the greatest feats. "With my career I have won the right to be happy," Mourinho said. "I won't have won the Champions League at Roma, but I was happy. When things go badly, they go badly." The documentary's first season does not cover his full managerial portfolio but focuses on his trophy-winning spells across his three featured clubs.