Gasperini previews Roma-Como: “Ndicka is available.”

Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at a press conference on the eve of Roma-Como, matchday fifteen of Serie A.

“It’s definitely a highly anticipated match. Como is now a sure thing, not a surprise. Not just because of the investments they’ve made, but because of the quality of their players, the way they play, and how they measure up against the best teams.”

“They’re undoubtedly one of the best teams; watching Como play is always a pleasure. I think tomorrow we’ll see a match with two teams trying to get the most out of their game, without too many subterfuges. It’s not a decisive match, but it’s very important. It determines the standings. It’s a very tight table, with many teams, including Como, so it’s a high-level match.”

Fabregas? “He’s certainly made a significant impact on Como, not only because of the very talented young players, but also because of their playing style. They’re definitely a team that prioritizes results through entertainment and skill, with some interesting variations, such as wingers playing inside. They often put several attacking players on the pitch, a bit like the Spanish school, playing on the team’s technique and dribbling ability.”

“Ndicka is staying; he’ll be there tomorrow; the rest will be seen in the upcoming matches. As for El Aynaoui, Morocco has appealed to FIFA, so we’re waiting for that. This is a league matchday where those who were able to play on Saturday and Sunday were able to use players involved in the Africa Cup of Nations, and we, who have to play on Monday, have been asked not to use them even though it’s the same matchday. We’re waiting for FIFA’s decision.”

“I’m very happy with how things are going. It’s been a very positive impact, beyond my wildest expectations. I came with the intention and hope of doing a good job, with the belief that this could be the right and ideal environment. Despite what was said about the difficult environment in Rome, and the fact that my arrival wasn’t universally welcomed, through hard work, performances, the team’s behavior, the players’ behavior, and the support of the fans, we’ve made progress.”

“We must be ambitious, always. Of course we have to improve; all teams, all clubs want to compete for the top spots in the league, primarily for financial reasons, but unfortunately that’s the case. Even we, to achieve those goals, which are so desirable to everyone, see that everyone is poisoned. We mustn’t be poisoned, but rather cohesive, united. Fans, team, club, and way of working. We mustn’t be arrogant, but very ambitious. And to be ambitious, we have to work hard.”

What is Roma missing to reach the top? Is it just a question of squad and players? “Let’s put it this way. All the ingredients are there, we just have to mix them well to bring them out. There’s the fans, there’s a wealthy club, there’s the possibility of building a stadium, there’s the possibility of developing a team. If there’s been any problems lately, it’s because to achieve certain objectives, we need to do more. It’s not bad luck; you have to make the right assessments, that’s fundamental. Evaluate everything carefully, improve, but then all the conditions for improvement are there.”

“It’s not like we had this much variety against Celtic. I’m very happy for Pisilli, Rensch had already provided some answers, El Aynaoui even more so, I’m happy for Ferguson, El Shaarawy has been here forever. It’s clear that as a team we need to play at the high levels we’re playing at in Europe and in the league.”

“Up to a certain level, that’s fine, but then we’ll have to raise the bar even further when we have more competitive, stronger matches and teams, to reach ever greater heights. We have some young players who are developing, so that’s good. Overall, the team has been a leader so far, both in the core group and those who came after. They’ve always had opportunities, everyone, to play, and everyone will have them to carve out spaces. But hierarchies will always exist.”

“Dybala? Let’s look at today’s training. He had a very positive moment, but like all important players, he has to be in great shape because today’s football doesn’t allow for precarious conditions. Physically, nervously, and motivationally. And you can see it in his performances, on the pitch, in training, and in the match. There’s no doubt about it when he’s in great shape.”

“Dybala and Pellegrini’s renewals? That’s just a financial situation; it’s not something I can get involved in. As for the Champions League clash with Como, it’s definitely a match for Europe. We need to first secure Europe, which isn’t easy, then get to the Champions League, which is more difficult.”

“Like in the Europa League, we’ve already earned 12 points, we’re in the top 24, and in February we’ll definitely be in the Europa League. Then, if we can avoid the playoffs, even better; things always have to be done piece by piece. And tomorrow is an important, though not decisive, step in the fight for Europe and possibly the Champions League.”