Roma director of sport Gianluca Petrachi has pleaded for patience, and says this is still “year zero after the trouble of the last few seasons.”
The Giallorossi suffered a 4-2 defeat to Sassuolo, and followed it up with a 3-2 home loss to Bologna last weekend.
Petrachi was speaking at a press conference to unveil new signings Carles Perez, Gonzalo Villar and Roger Ibanez, and implored for patience.
Roma director of sport Gianluca Petrachi has pleaded for patience, and says this is still “year zero after the trouble of the last few seasons.”
The Giallorossi suffered a 4-2 defeat to Sassuolo, and followed it up with a 3-2 home loss to Bologna last weekend.
Petrachi was speaking at a press conference to unveil new signings Carles Perez, Gonzalo Villar and Roger Ibanez, and implored for patience.
“From my first press conference since joining the club, I have always said that this season is year zero for Roma,” said Petrachi.
“I was called in to resolve the problems of the last few years, with a lot of desire and humility I threw myself into the job.
“Roma underwent a true revolution, 20 players left and 14 were brought in. we didn’t buy players for €70m.
“Some need to understand that patience is needed on everyone’s part. Some things can go well, others less so.”
Petrachi also denied having a row with star striker Edin Dzeko.
“It was written that I was told off by Dzeko, but it’s not true.
“He never asked me for more quality in the team, he knows what his role is and if he must say something he would do it behind closed doors.”
Petrachi then turned his attention to the three new signings.
“I immediately said to Perez that I didn’t like his attitude against Sassuolo. You need to leave the field with a sweaty shirt, it’s not enough to be technically strong.
“I wanted to make him understand what Roma is. I believe in these three lads, who can be the future of the club.
“I feel like this team is mine, even though you want my head already.
“I am annoyed by all of the slander and lies that are being written.”
Petrachi hit back at Bologna director of sport Walter Sabatini, who made the claim that Ibanez joined the Giallorossi for money.
“What Sabatini said is wrong, it’s not true that the player is here for money. In fact he is earning the same money that he was offered by Bologna.
“Ibanez chose Roma because he was convinced by the project and by Paulo Fonseca.”