Giallorossi coach confident over Dybala renewal and takes swipe at Serie A scheduling chaos
Gian Piero Gasperini insisted AS Roma are fully prepared for the Rome derby regardless of kickoff time, while also expressing optimism over Paulo Dybala’s future at the club.
Speaking on the eve of the decisive clash with SS Lazio, Gasperini addressed the controversy surrounding the scheduling of the match after days of debate between Serie A authorities, local institutions and the clubs involved.
“We are so motivated and so focused on this race for fourth place that we would have been ready to play at any time and on any day,” Gasperini said.
At the same time, the Roma coach criticized the lack of organization behind the situation.
“It hasn’t been a great example of planning. I also think about the inconvenience caused to the other teams. Still, it’s nice to play five matches simultaneously.”
“Our motivations are more real”
Gasperini made it clear he believes Roma enter the derby with stronger motivations than their city rivals, with Champions League qualification still firmly in sight.
“Lazio’s motivation is to stop us from reaching the Champions League, and they are an excellent team,” he said.
“But our motivations are more real.”
The Roma coach has repeatedly stressed the importance of securing a top-four finish since arriving in the capital, and he once again emphasized the magnitude of the objective ahead of the final weeks.
“I believe Dybala will renew”
Gasperini also spoke positively about Dybala’s contract situation, suggesting confidence that both the club and the player want to continue together.
“The important thing is that both sides—the ownership and the player—share the same idea,” he explained.
“I see it as something very positive. When both parties want the same thing, a solution can be found.”
The Argentine forward has remained central to Roma’s ambitions despite injury problems throughout the campaign.
Response to Sarri’s protest
Asked about comments from Maurizio Sarri, who had threatened not to show up if the derby were played under certain conditions, Gasperini opted for a calmer tone.
“Football is beautiful because it’s played,” he said.
“Beyond Sarri, who may have had his own reasons, we should remove some of the negative pressure and start enjoying matches more.”
The Roma coach emphasized the importance of protecting the spectacle of the derby.
“A full stadium and a football match should be entertainment, even if we are playing for something huge.”
Friedkin presence “fundamental”
Gasperini also praised the growing involvement of the Friedkin ownership group, highlighting how important direct communication and long-term planning are for the club’s development.
“The center of Roma’s project is the club itself—it’s much broader than just the technical side,” he explained.
“Starting with the stadium project, the continuity of investment and planning.”
The coach stressed how ownership presence improves decision-making inside the club.
“When the owners are present, everything works better. Decisions become much quicker and there are fewer intermediaries.”
He also expressed hope that the ownership would continue strengthening relationships with the squad.
“I hope Ryan can continue building direct relationships with the players who are giving everything for this club, regardless of what their future may be.”
With the derby approaching and Champions League qualification still on the line, Gasperini’s Roma head into one of the biggest matches of the season determined, united—and convinced their objectives are still within reach.
