Genoa coach discusses recent transfer moves, takes responsibility for Venturino’s exit, and delivers glowing praise for Roma’s No. 1
Daniele De Rossi has been at the center of one of the most active transfer corridors in Serie A over the past few days, as Genoa and Roma finalized a pair of interconnected moves involving Tommaso Baldanzi and teenage winger Lorenzo Venturino. Speaking ahead of Genoa’s home match against Bologna, the Rossoblù coach offered insight into both operations — with honesty, emotion, and a touch of self-criticism.
De Rossi was quick to clarify Baldanzi’s current status. Although the attacking midfielder is expected to reunite with him at Genoa, the coach stressed that the move has not yet been finalized and that the player is still dealing with injury issues. For now, De Rossi prefers to focus on the squad available for Sunday’s match rather than on future reinforcements.
Looking ahead, however, his admiration for Baldanzi is evident. De Rossi described him as a player he believes in deeply, someone with the technical and emotional traits to resonate with the Genoa fanbase. While acknowledging Baldanzi’s versatility, he downplayed the idea of using him as a false nine, pointing out that Genoa already rely on physical presence in the box and that Baldanzi’s qualities are better expressed elsewhere.
The conversation then shifted to Venturino, whose move to Roma leaves Genoa without one of their most promising academy products. De Rossi did not shy away from responsibility. He admitted that he failed to give Venturino enough opportunities and expressed regret for not showing greater courage in trusting younger players during a difficult phase of the season.
Venturino, in De Rossi’s words, is a “top-level kid” — respectful, hardworking, and blessed with outstanding athletic ability. The coach revealed that he personally contacted Roma to recommend the 2006-born winger, calling him one of his “protections” and wishing him success in the next stage of his career.
Finally, De Rossi addressed the goalkeeping situation, drawing an emotional parallel with his time at Roma. Asked about recent decisions at Genoa, he explained that there is no urgency to alter the current balance, praising Nicola’s recent performances. That calm, he said, contrasts with the situation he faced in Rome, when an injury to Rui Patrício opened the door for Mile Svilar.
Reflecting on that moment, De Rossi admitted that luck played a role — but the outcome speaks for itself. He described Svilar as one of the three best goalkeepers in the world today, praising not only his ability but also the professionalism of Rui Patrício, whose attitude made the transition possible.
For De Rossi, these transfer stories are not just transactions. They are personal decisions, lessons learned, and reflections of a coach still shaping his identity — balancing results, development, and accountability.
