Pizarro: Roma a notch above Fiorentina

The Chilean feels Roma are improving all the time and are favourites ahead of the Serie A match-up, even though Paulo Sousa's side no longer have the distraction of European football while Luciano Spalletti's men face Real Madrid in the Champions League next week.

“I get the feeling Roma are a notch above Fiorentina,” Pizarro said in an interview with Il Messaggero. “Fiorentina have the advantage of not being in Europe anymore but Roma are on the up and they'll only get better.”

Do you think Roma can beat Fiorentina to third place with Spalletti at the reins?

“The last time I went to a Roma game was in January, against Verona. I was quite shocked to be honest. I saw them again on Saturday against Empoli and they're a totally different team. I don't think Fiorentina are favourites anymore.”

Fiorentina looked good against Napoli though.

“They did and it was a fantastic game to watch. Played at a high tempo – you don't see many of those in Italy nowadays.”

Do you like this Roma team?

“I do. They're a very good side with great players. Excellent midfielders, from [Seydou] Keita through to [Radja] Nainggolan and [Miralem] Pjanic. Real players.”

What would you say Spalletti's best asset is?

“He's a stickler for detail. He makes sure every little thing is in place and it's the details that make the difference. He's also very good at creating team unity. He gets everyone pulling in the same direction.”

Would you like to be involved on Friday?

“I'd pay myself to be able to play in a match like that.”

On which side?

“I have a strong connection with Rome but I had a great time in Florence too and my third daughter, Emma, was born there. I didn't have any children in Rome but I made lots of friends.”