Ranieri: New Roma signing Gourna-Douath shows promise but needs development

Roma manager Claudio Ranieri has shared his thoughts on recent signing Lucas Gourna-Douath, who is set to make his first start for the club against Venezia in Serie A on Sunday. Ranieri also explained the reasoning behind his candid pre-match press conference on Friday.

Gourna-Douath joined Roma on loan with a €18 million purchase option at the end of the January transfer window. After being an unused substitute in Wednesday’s Coppa Italia loss to Milan, the young midfielder is expected to make his Roma debut against Venezia.

Speaking to DAZN before kickoff, Ranieri said of Roma’s new additions: “We scouted them and were impressed, otherwise we wouldn’t have pursued them. Gourna-Douath excels at winning the ball back and plays simply. He’s not the finished article yet and needs more training, but he has potential to do well for Roma.”

When asked about his direct approach in Friday’s press conference, Ranieri responded: “As a Roma supporter myself, I believe the fans appreciate honesty. I don’t like deception. We hope our plans will prove to be excellent decisions.”

Ranieri also explained his decision to rest Mats Hummels and Leandro Paredes against Venezia: “It’s based on what I’ve observed – sometimes data can be misleading. I couldn’t rest Hummels for the Coppa Italia with Mancini suspended. Recovery is as crucial as training, so I preferred they take time off to recharge with their families.”