Roma director general Franco Baldini admits “the fans are right to protest” after a 4-2 home defeat to Cagliari and won’t rule out sacking Zdenek Zeman.
Roma director general Franco Baldini admits “the fans are right to protest” after a 4-2 home defeat to Cagliari and won’t rule out sacking Zdenek Zeman.
The Coach had already been at risk this week when he entered crisis talks with the club hierarchy, but his situation precipitated on Friday evening with a shock thrashing.
Around 500 angry fans waited outside the Stadio Olimpico after the game to hurl insults at the team bus and demand Zeman’s swift exit, but he refused to resign.
“I think the fans are right to protest, as nobody can be happy with Roma’s performance,” admitted Baldini on Sky Sport Italia.
“We cannot say anything to the supporters, as up until we went 3-1 down they continued cheering us on despite everything that had happened this week.
“It is difficult to speak after a defeat like this and it would be wrong to make a decision in the heat of the moment. This weekend we will speak and reflect not only on the Coach, but on the global situation.
“We have a problem that has to be analysed, but at this moment the wound is too fresh and we must let at least a dozen hours pass before we can consider this clearly.”
Nonetheless, Baldini made it clear that Zeman’s job was very much on the line.
“Something isn’t working and this is why our considerations must be global. Obviously these considerations also regard me, as I take responsibility for my choices. I’ll speak to the American owners of the club.
“Zeman was never in doubt before that famous Press conference, where he seemed to no longer believe in what he was doing. He appeared to be seeking those to blame rather than find any solutions.
“If we decided to continue together, it was because we had a positive response from everyone and resolved our doubts.”
Goalkeeper Mauro Goicoechea scored an extraordinary own goal by fumbling an easy catch, further putting on the pressure just hours after Maarten Stekelenburg failed to complete his transfer to Fulham.
“Stekelenburg expressed his desire to leave, but Fulham’s offer was inadequate. They stepped forward again on transfer deadline day, but we were unable to secure a replacement, so could not let him go. His objective now is to regain his spot in the starting XI.”