Emotional Giallorossi coach celebrates under the Curva Sud as Roma move one step closer to the Champions League
Gian Piero Gasperini delivered one of the most emotional moments of Roma’s season after the derby victory over SS Lazio, celebrating passionately beneath the Curva Sud before admitting that earning the fans’ trust “is worth more than a Scudetto.”
The Roma coach initially stayed away from the curva after the final whistle, but supporters called him over—and what followed became an unforgettable scene.
Gasperini applauded, danced, sang with the crowd and even bowed toward the fans, acknowledging the bond that has grown between him and the Romanisti after months of skepticism surrounding his arrival.
“Now it depends only on us”
Before the emotional celebrations, Gasperini focused on the importance of the result in Roma’s race for a Champions League place.
“Now everything depends only on us,” he said.
“It won’t be easy in Verona because every team gives everything at this stage of the season.”
The Roma manager admitted he did not expect Juventus FC to lose, but stressed his squad remained fully concentrated on the derby.
“We only focused on ourselves because we had a difficult match against a strong team.”
After a difficult opening spell, Roma took control of the game.
“In the first part we suffered a bit, then we unlocked it from a corner and after that we created a lot while they created very little.”
Still, Gasperini warned against premature celebrations.
“We must not get carried away by the enthusiasm. Verona is the final step toward an objective that would be truly beautiful.”
“This team has many captains”
The Roma coach also praised the mentality and leadership inside the squad, highlighting the unity built throughout the season.
“There are great values in this group,” he explained.
“Today is an incredible day for Mancini, but this team has many captains.”
Gasperini revealed he never encountered problems managing the dressing room despite constant pressure and rotation.
“I’ve never had any issues with team selections or training sessions.”
He even pointed to the dramatic 3-3 draw against Juventus earlier in the season as a turning point for Roma’s attacking confidence.
“For many people that match was a difficult moment, but for us it gave awareness of our attacking strength. From that moment we started scoring through many different players.”
Optimism over Dybala renewal
Gasperini also sounded positive regarding Paulo Dybala’s contract situation, suggesting all parties are aligned.
“We’ll see next week. Fortunately the ownership is here, and when the Friedkins are around everything becomes easier,” he said.
“There is willingness from the player, from me and from the club to renew.”
The Roma coach praised both Dybala and the other players with expiring contracts for their commitment.
“They have shown professionalism and attachment to the shirt. My opinion of these players will never change.”
“I was the least suitable candidate”
The most powerful moment came when Gasperini reflected on the relationship he has built with Roma supporters despite his background.
“The fans have always been there,” he said emotionally.
“I knew that, as someone from Piedmont, from the Juventus school, and an honorary citizen of Bergamo, I was probably the least suitable candidate to connect with the people here.”
But football changed everything.
“I came here to coach football, and I think people appreciated me for that. Winning the trust and credibility of the fans means more to me than a Scudetto.”
For Gasperini, the derby victory was more than three points—it was the clearest sign yet that Roma has truly become his team.
