The Ranieri effect is real. Claudio Ranieri’s leadership has been nothing short of a miracle, transforming Roma from relegation contenders to contenders surpassing Milan and Fiorentina. Since he took charge, Roma has accumulated 33 points (Inter leads with 36) and remains undefeated in the league in 2025.
Starting from the January derby, Roma has earned 26 points, more than any other team. Inter trails behind with 21 points. Their recent draw against Empoli marked their twelfth consecutive match without defeat. This is a Scudetto-worthy performance for Ranieri, who is also preparing for the Europa League quarter-finals, starting with a 2-1 lead against Athletic Club from the first leg at the Olimpico.
TACTICS – Ranieri has turned the season around, a fact acknowledged even by Mats Hummels: “Everything has changed in just a few months.” Ranieri maintained the three-man defense but optimized player positioning. Angeliño transitioned from left center-back to a left midfielder. He reinstated Hummels as a central figure despite previous bench appearances and revitalized players like Celik, Cristante, Soulé, and Baldanzi. Furthermore, his management of Dybala has been exceptional. Paulo is in peak physical condition and plays consistently, only resting against Empoli to be fully prepared for Thursday.
TEAM SPIRIT – Roma’s strength lies in team cohesion, reminiscent of the Mourinho era’s first two years. Overcoming the Juric storm, the team has become more united than ever. Every player is giving their all for Roma, and Ranieri gives opportunities to everyone. He has utilized every available player except the second-choice goalkeeper Gollini. Harmony has returned, and more importantly, so have the results. Roma has secured their fifth consecutive victory, a feat unseen since 2017, and they have rediscovered their winning form away from home, earning three points in recent away games against Udinese, Venezia, Parma, and Empoli. This turnaround is a Ranieri miracle.
THE FUTURE – Who will be Roma’s next coach? Currently, it remains uncertain, perhaps even for Dan Friedkin, who wouldn’t oppose Ranieri staying. The same sentiment is echoed by the team and Ghisolfi. However, the coach has stated clearly: “Leave me be…” He doesn’t intend to stay and is now tasked with suggesting a name for next year’s coach to the Friedkins. Gasperini and Sarri remain potential candidates. Ranieri has promised a top-tier coach for the bench. Many believe the coach is already at Trigoria…