Ranieri comments on 4-1 win over Sampdoria

Here’s what the coach had to say...

What significance does this victory hold, considering the quality of the opposition and Roma’s current situation? 

“We are certainly not going through a good period, otherwise they wouldn’t have called me. We had to respond after the slip-up in the second half against Como and the lads delivered a performance full of determination, desire to win and fight for every ball, which is what I always ask of my teams. They have quality, but if the opposition show heart, determination and battling spirit, quality alone doesn’t achieve much in football. There must be quality, but also a sense of belonging and competitive aggression because Como outplayed us in that respect. 

“I told the lads, ‘You ran more against Como than in other matches, raising our average. This means,’ I explained, ‘that you didn’t play as a team, you didn’t run as a team, and you put in a poor display.’” 

Did you expect Dovbyk to stake his claim like that? Has he come into his own?

“I hope so. He’s still not training as he should, not because he doesn’t want to, but due to a series of small issues: whether it’s the flu, a knee problem or something else. Unfortunately, with a large frame like his, he needs consistent training, but of course, goals help you train better and build confidence. It restores his belief and that’s important for him and the team.” 

(Question from Christian Panucci, Mediaset pundit) Isn’t it better to focus on the team’s problems now rather than talk about a new coach?

“You’re right, but the media has to ask, they have to create a buzz and interest... So, the more it’s discussed, the better. And we respond. Jokingly, the other day I said, ‘Why? Am I not good enough?’ We’re focused on this season, which is the most important thing because if Roma don’t get back on track, you can’t approach top coaches. “Let’s focus on doing well this year, until March or April, and then we’ll see what happens and who we can bring to Roma. This club isn’t for just anyone. We need a coach who can handle the emotions, intensity, determination and expectations of such a big club.”

What does a third coach like you need to do to sort things out?

“What I’ve always done in my career: train and focus on hard work because only through work can you resolve a team’s problems. I’m fortunate to have a team with great quality. The lads are very serious in training and I firmly believe you play how you train. We need to keep hammering this point home because it’s normal for a great team to have a poor start to the season, but, as I always say, you only see the real winners at the finish line.” 

As of today, what are the positives you’re building on and what negatives can’t you resolve yet?

“In terms of positives, it’s their approach towards me. I told them, ‘Help me, because I can’t get to know 27 players overnight, whereas you only need to get to know one person: me.’ I strongly believe in the connection that develops between a coach and the players. I always demand the maximum, and they are giving me their all. The disappointment was the second half against Como because since I’ve been here, even in defeats against Napoli and Atalanta, the team has always shown determination and a desire to achieve results, whether we managed it or not. I’ve always liked the team’s level of intensity and determination. The second half against Como surprised me. I didn’t expect it and hope it was just a blip. Now we’re already thinking about Parma, a team with a devastating attack because they have real quality. We’ll need to be very focused.”

Could you rely on Dybala?

“I always do.”