Miralem Pjanic says his choice to stay at Roma was made ‘from the heart’, whilst he backs Mehdi Benatia as also hoping for the same.
The Bosnia international ended months of speculation over his future at the Stadio Olimpico by signing a new contract at the start of the summer.
Miralem Pjanic says his choice to stay at Roma was made ‘from the heart’, whilst he backs Mehdi Benatia as also hoping for the same.
The Bosnia international ended months of speculation over his future at the Stadio Olimpico by signing a new contract at the start of the summer.
“Why? because I believe in the project at Roma, this team, this Coach. It was easy,” Pjanic has explained on making that decision to the Corriere dello Sport.
“I have always been very happy here. I remember that three years ago everything happened very quickly.
“It was the end of the transfer window, I had already begun the season with Lyon. Luis Enrique wanted me absolutely, the club made me feel important.
“I liked it all straight away. I listened to the heart, let’s say. I did so again by signing the renewal.
“And for money? I would have been able to earn more money elsewhere. Even this summer. But I want to play where I am happy.
“In Rome, I love the people, the city, everything. And then this club is perfect for my professional development. Here I can win and celebrate with our fans, who are special.
“The negotiations were long only because they started whilst the season was ongoing. There was so much speculation but the directors knew my intention to remain at Roma and sign before the World Cup. We just needed a deal and it all came naturally.
“PSG? There were important clubs. Very important. But I do not name names, it would be unfair for those who sought me.”
Speculation now surrounds Pjanic’s teammate Benatia and his intentions this summer. Talk of a renewal is still in the air.
“I do not know what problems there are between him and the club. But I know that his intention has always been the same as mine – to remain.
“He has invested a lot in his career at Roma. And the group knows him well – the team is with him. There is no reason not to continue together.”