Gervinho: ‘Roma like a family’

Gervinho reveals he found his confidence at Roma, as the club “is like a family” and he wants another goal against Juventus.

Gervinho reveals he found his confidence at Roma, as the club “is like a family” and he wants another goal against Juventus.

The hitman spoke to Roma Channel ahead of Sunday’s Serie A showcase with Scudetto winners Juventus. That kick-off has been changed to 16.45 UK time.

“It has been a positive campaign, in the sense that our objective was to get back into Europe and we achieved it. We could’ve done better, but we are satisfied.

“The Scudetto was decided by details, as we have a good squad, but perhaps not complete enough to be competitive throughout the whole season. We gave our all, but Juve had more strength in depth.”

Gervinho had struggled at Arsenal, but regained his confidence and his scoring touch in Rome.

“I think nine goals is a good tally and I can improve, as I created so many scoring opportunities that I didn’t take. It was a good season and I concentrated on giving my best for the team.

“The most important goal was the one against Juventus in the Coppa Italia. It might not have been the most beautiful goal, but it was the most important.

“I feel important in Italy and at Roma. If I had to choose the best goal, then I’ll say the one against Bologna. I hope to score against Juventus again this weekend.

“I knew that Rudi Garcia would give me a lot of responsibility and believed in me, so that influenced my decision to come here.

“I have to say I am also satisfied to have provided 10 assists, as that was an objective I had set myself this season. I wanted to score more goals, but the Coach told me to help my teammates score too.

“I have a good rapport with all my teammates and we joke around, even with the gardeners. Trigoria is like a second family, I am happy with the campaign and thank everyone for the warm welcome I received.

“I am happy to be a part of this club and hope we can achieve many more satisfying moments together next year. We’ll try to return after the holidays stronger than ever.”

Gervinho’s vacation will be brief, as he has to be in Brazil for the World Cup with the Ivory Coast. Is it tougher to win the World Cup or the Champions League?

“Why choose? I’d like to win with Roma and the Ivory Coast! Next season we need an even stronger side for the Champions League, so some new players to be even more competitive.

“We don’t just want to take part in this tournament, as we want to go as far as possible.”