Roma presented their squad to the fans – including Erik Lamela – amid jeers, banners and protests.
The Open Day 2013 saw 25,000 supporters pack into the Stadio Olimpico to salute the players for the new season.
Roma presented their squad to the fans – including Erik Lamela – amid jeers, banners and protests.
The Open Day 2013 saw 25,000 supporters pack into the Stadio Olimpico to salute the players for the new season.
They all ran out individually, including Lamela despite negotiations for a €35m move to Tottenham and clearly incorrect rumours of the Argentine being in London for a medical.
Curiously, Lamela's girlfriend Sofia Herrera (who is in the Stadio Olimpico) tweeted "What a grand farce…" and then quickly deleted it.
However, there was loud jeering when the coaching and fitness staff walked out, plus during the team’s lap of honour.
There were also several angry banners aimed at the club and squad, most importantly this large message referring to the Coppa Italia defeat to rivals Lazio: ‘Not being able to make up for a defeat is worse than the defeat itself.’
Other banners read: ‘Get your hands off Lamela,' ’26 May: we will not forget’ and ‘We only stand by the shirt.’
There were the usual chants insulting Pablo Daniel Osvaldo, even though he has now moved to Southampton.
“Good evening to everyone,” said Coach Rudi Garcia. “I am very happy to see so many Roma fans. You can be certain of one thing: we will give our all so that you Roma fans can be proud of your team.”
The squad then began a training session and game between ranks on the Stadio Olimpico pitch.