Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini called the Europa League final against Sevilla ‘the crowning of a journey’ and was evasive when asked about coach Jose Mourinho’s future.
The Giallorossi are gearing up for their second European final in as many seasons, having won the Conference League under Mourinho last season following their win over Feyenoord.
Sevilla are known to be modern experts of the Europa League, setting up a tough task for Mourinho and his Roma squad. In the background, doubts are continuing to emerge regarding the Portuguese coach’s future in the Italian capital.
Speaking in a press conference, Pellegrini first discussed how Roma are feeling heading into the Europa League final.
“Let’s say that we come to this final aware because when you come to play a game like this you have made a journey that has left you with something. We know how much we wanted to be here today or tomorrow, so I would use the word conscious.
“Tense is normal because it’s a final. To arrive here has brought so many sacrifices and it’s right to have that emotion that leads you to do things better.”
He was asked about a conversation he’d had with Mourinho regarding the coach’s future at the club.
“As he said before, we spoke to each other in all honesty and it is right that these things remain between us. Then, when it is appropriate, he will be the one to talk about his future.”
The 26-year-old touched on how it feels to play in two European finals as Roma captain.
“The biggest thing that can stay with you is to never settle. Last year we gave our 100% in the Conference League and winning it was incredible. We gave 100% in the Europa League and now our desire is to win it again.
“We left everything on the pitch, even when it wasn’t enough. We are here and we are grateful for the path we have taken. So many in or out games and eleven men took the pitch. This final is the crowning of a journey and we are looking forward to playing it.”
Pellegrini was asked why Spanish teams seem to do so well in European competitions.
“I think it depends because they are used to playing these games with this intensity. But it will be difficult for them too. We are proud to be here, we have come a long way.”
He was also asked how the players feel when they’re accused of ‘parking the bus’ to secure wins.
“We laugh. We have always analysed the opponents, analysing the best way to curb their strengths and since we are here I would say we are there unlike those at home.”
Finally, Pellegrini discussed what’s changed since the last time Roma played Sevilla, a 2-0 loss back in August 2020.
“Initially, there was some change in sight. What happened afterwards is what we wanted: to create a group that cares. I connect to the coach’s question, running and sacrificing doesn’t mean closing ourselves off, but wanting to be here. Then came the coach who forged us.”