As Claudio Ranieri prepares for his final home match as Roma`s manager, he reflects on the unique bond between Roman coaches and the club. “The difference is that we are Romans and Roma fans. Perhaps another coach doesn`t experience what we feel,” Ranieri stated in a press conference.
The match against Milan at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday will mark Ranieri`s 500th Serie A appearance as a coach and his last home game with Roma. He reminisced about his youth in the club`s academy, saying, “When I was a kid in the youth sector, my heart would race just seeing the players on the pitch. Climbing those steps is an indescribable feeling.”
Ranieri expressed gratitude for the fans` support, even during challenging times. While unaware of any special welcome planned by the fans, he stated, “If they`ve prepared something, it`s right that they didn`t tell me.”
Looking back on his career, Ranieri said, “I`ve reached 500 games in Serie A, and I`m happy. I completed a thousand in London, but I`ll reflect on those achievements in about a month. I hope I have time to contemplate what I`ve accomplished.”
Regarding recent team decisions, Ranieri explained Alexis Saelemaekers` reduced playing time, noting, “Soulé adapted well on that side, and Saelemaekers formed an incredible combination with Dybala. After Paulo`s injury, I noticed he wasn`t the same, so I made a change, but Alexis remains an important player.”
As Ranieri`s tenure with Roma comes to a close, his words reflect the deep emotional connection between the club, its Roman coaches, and the passionate fanbase.