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De Rossi: The biggest regret is that he has never won Serie A with Roma and will return to coach in the future? It is not ruled out that it is possible

7:49am, 1 June 2025【Football】

According to the Evening Post on May 31, former Rome coach and Roman legend De Rossi was interviewed. He talked about personal topics and related topics when coaching Rome.

The reporter went straight to the point: What happened?

"You shouldn't ask me. We have planned a long-term project, and I have a mind of growing up with young players and some veterans. The goal is to strive for the Serie A championship at the 2027 Centennial Celebration. However...."

However, your coaching record is sluggish

"I understand that there is no time in the world of football without results, but everything ends too hastily. The season usually starts in mid-August. We have brought 16 youth training players before the season. The lineup has not yet taken shape when the transfer window opens. I have only trained them for a few days for the last 4-5 new players."

You have always said 'I will coach Roma one day'. Is it a joy or a sadness to realize it in advance?

"Both feelings are extremely strong. But I value this honor and happiness, proving that I am worthy of coaching the mother team. Leaving too early will keep me in the future and coaching. This does not constitute obsession, but many coaches like Ranieri have returned many times. As the lyrics of Califano say: 'I do not rule out the possibility of returning'."

What are you dissatisfied with the Friedkin family?

"Maybe they had not communicated with me before making such a decisive decision. Given our relationship, I should have called more actively. But I still thank them for giving me the opportunity to coach. Although the dismissal decision was made by them, I believe that he was misled by some outgoing people, his words and deeds were not working for the benefit of Rome."

Rome once forbidden you from attending public events

"It hurts me at the time. If the woman I love leaves you, you cannot watch her holding hands and laugh with others. But time has changed, I can watch Rome again and rejoice in the victory of the team."

Have you ever thought that 'I can do the results of Ranieri'?

"No, because every coach is unique. Ranieri's wisdom, experience and pragmatism were crucial at that time. I can only say that when I witnessed the flag flying against Bilbao, I was no less excited than him. I longed to be in that red and yellow ocean. It was the purest spectacular scene created by fans spontaneously, without any intentional arrangement, each holding a half-yellow and half-red flag, just like a scene in childhood."

You still hold a two-year contract

"Yes, but I hope to sign with other clubs as soon as possible. The contract is not a constraint for me."

How do you view the rules of "coaches are banned from coaching other Serie A teams after the beginning of the season"?

"Extremely absurd! The rules around the world are different, Italian football is also deeply trapped in bureaucratic quagmire. It is very difficult to take the coach license exam, and it is difficult for non-football practitioners to be qualified. Why? Why can't the boss choose the head coach on his own? Not to mention those unbuilt stadiums."

Talk about the blockage of the new stadium in Rome

"Some people intend to block the Friedkin's billion-euro project in order to protect the small wasteland with a few trees. Previously, the Thor Divalais planned to abort the semi-destroyed historical stands to protect rats. This is simply crazy! Lottito's Framinho stadium plan is also difficult. There are better facilities than our poor and backward countries, all due to bureaucracy."

What do you leave for Rome?

"A healthy team, a passion for a job, and some correct decisions."

You promote Sveral and introduce Angelino, Sule, and Conne. Are there any unfulfilled ideas?

"Of course, all coaches will encounter it. We should not only mention the things that suit me: I originally wanted to revive Moise Keane, but I also refused to introduce Retje, who later became the king of shooters."

Current job search standards?

"Seeking inspiring projects, the urban atmosphere of football, and the decision makers who are eager to work with me."

Summary of your football philosophy in three words

"The whole game has one-on-one ability, courage, and an organizational system for controlling the game."

The most influential coach?

"Sparetti, Louis Enrique, and Conte, who is obsessed with victory."

Urban legend about you in the era of players

"Rumors are overwhelming, depicting my life indulgence: beard storage is to cover the scars on my face; alcoholism is named 'Beer Captain', and it is actually at most pizza with a glass of beer; long-sleeved jerseys cover the fascist tattoo... Think about it! My extreme left-wing mother would chop my arms. Looking back at these outdated lies now is ridiculous, but when the rumors hit, you are afraid of being labeled. I always wonder, who is this? Who hates me so much? Why do people spread it freely? Must cut the rumor chain effectively: I did it. Mobile chat is the same: 'forward key' is 'despicable key'."

The biggest regret?

"Didn't win the Serie A championship with Roma and join Boca youth too late."

Dream?

"Satisfied with your coaching career at the age of seventy is just like your satisfaction with your player career now."

Nightmare?

"Dreams may keep me away from my family." Will Rome reappear the Toti-de-Rosi-style flag?

"Maybe there will be people who are slightly less in love with Rome but win more. There will be players who surpass me, and I think it is difficult for me to surpass Totti."

Is it a pity to not see Totti return to Rome?

"I feel sorry, but I understand the concerns of the Chairman when facing the club flag. It is not easy to manage such important people. They bring glory, but if they leave, it will cause fans to turn against each other."