Lorenzo Pellegrini discussed his new role, that goal in the Derby della Capitale and the “pressure of being Roman and playing for Roma.”
The son of the Capital city has quickly become a fan favourite, especially after his game-changing substitute appearance in the derby against Lazio, complete with back-heel flick goal.
“It was a bit reckless, as if the ball had gone wide, then many wouldn’t have forgiven me,” Pellegrini told Sky Sport Italia and Roma TV.
Lorenzo Pellegrini discussed his new role, that goal in the Derby della Capitale and the “pressure of being Roman and playing for Roma.”
The son of the Capital city has quickly become a fan favourite, especially after his game-changing substitute appearance in the derby against Lazio, complete with back-heel flick goal.
“It was a bit reckless, as if the ball had gone wide, then many wouldn’t have forgiven me,” Pellegrini told Sky Sport Italia and Roma TV.
“At that moment, you just can’t think. I turned, saw the ball go in and it felt fantastic.”
The former Sassuolo man was signed as a midfielder, but seems to have found his niche as more of a trequartista playing between the lines.
“I have more space to roam and have fun, less focus on tactics and I am really enthusiastic about this new role. I really like playing there and the team is doing well too. We all move well and have more passing options.
“Javier Pastore has much better technique than me, but I don’t think we interpret the role that differently. The group gets on well off the field too, and that’s important. The teammate I get on best with is Stephan El Shaarawy, as our rapport goes beyond football.
“Now it is fundamental for us to get on track both in Serie A and the Champions League, starting with SPAL on Saturday. As we saw, the Coach likes to change things up and everyone knows they can have a chance to play.”
Being a homegrown figure, Pellegrini was asked if he saw himself as Roma captain one day.
“I am not thinking about that, I know how important the role of captain is at Roma. You do feel the pressure of being Roman and playing for Roma, there is a different level of love.
“This jersey is able to reflect the most wonderful characteristics of the club, which is players from its own academy.”