Jose Mourinho explained the role of new arrival Sergio Oliveira following Roma’s 4-2 win over Empoli this evening.
The Giallorossi went into the half time break 4-0 up, with Tammy Abraham scoring a brace, and Oliveira and Nicolo Zaniolo both finding the back of the net once each. In the second half things were a little closer, with Andrea Pinamonti and Nedim Bajrami picking up some consolation goals to make things 4-2 at full time.
Speaking with DAZN after Roma’s win over Empoli, Mourinho first discussed the result and the differences between the first and second half.
“This is a great result. The 4-2 is a great result for us. Before this match we knew about Lazio–Atalanta and Fiorentina‘s draw.
“For us the first half was fundamental. For TV, the second half is better for the audience. Compliments to Empoli for coming back alive and giving their opponents a real run for their money. Congratulations to them.”
The Portuguese coach touched on his tactical decisions in the match.
“We prepared the game well and Mkhitaryan did well. In the second half we lowered intensity and they did well trying to get in and only when we changed to 3 in line with Veretout did we control the game better.
“At the beginning of the second half until 4-2 we were in trouble. But I don’t want to talk about our problems but about the quality of the opponent. Being here and playing this game we did well and interesting for you.”
Mourinho explained how new signing Oliveira fits in his Roma squad.
“He is different from the others but he is not the regista that people talk about. He is not that and I knew that as Portuguese football is my own. I knew he gave a difference in physique and decisions.
“He’s not a technical phenomenon but it’s difficult for him to make wrong decisions. He knows how to manage the timing as he showed at the end by taking a foul. He has played at a club that wants to win and has learned some behaviours and mentality that we need.”
Finally, Mourinho explained why he apologised for coming out of the half time break late.
“I don’t remember if against Cagliari or Lecce the opponent came in late. I don’t like that but it was my fault. I wasted time analysing with the iPad and then I took time with my players. I apologised.”
Roma’s win means that they’ve risen to 6th in the Serie A table, two points ahead of Fiorentina, who have a game in hand.
#Mourinho: “Per noi grande risultato. Secondo tempo? Almeno il pubblico non ha spento la tv…”https://t.co/ErxIMrAU0S#ASRoma #RomanewsEU #EmpoliRoma pic.twitter.com/rzLA42vPTF
— Romanews EU (@romanewseu) January 23, 2022
Way to go Jose and the boys!! Upwards and onwards!!
What Mourinho needs are the right players who will play according to instruction. Roma will qualify for champions league no doubt