New Roma boss Rudi Garcia has been officially unveiled by the Italian club. “I’m ambitious,” he assured fans.
New Roma boss Rudi Garcia has been officially unveiled by the Italian club. “I’m ambitious,” he assured fans.
The Frenchman has been netted from Lille after the Giallorossi were bossed by Zdenek Zeman, sacked in February, and then Aurelio Andreazzoli in 2012-13.
“You can’t say no when Roma call,” the 49-year-old stated. “The only regret I have is that I wasn’t able to say goodbye to the Lille fans after years of success together.
“I’m ambitious and we’ll work hard. I am afraid of nothing and I’m here to win with a side that enjoys playing football and entertaining the fans.
“There is a competitive squad here. Now the important thing is that we get back into Europe – if that is through the biggest door [the Champions League] then that would be better.
“To do that I want to get to know all of the squad and then aim to strengthen it.”
Garcia was not at the top of the capital club’s wish-list this summer seeing as they had contacted Walter Mazzarri and Massimiliano Allegri. They also spoke to Laurent Blanc amongst others.
“The important thing is not being the first choice for a club, but to impose yourself as a Coach,” stated the man selected by sporting director Walter Sabatini.
“I’ve been in contact with Roma for two years and I’m proud to be here.”
Garcia was inevitably asked about club symbol Francesco Totti, as well as Daniele De Rossi and Pablo Osvaldo – the two players linked with summer exits.
“Totti and De Rossi are elements who will be important on and off the pitch. I have a great desire to meet De Rossi, as I do the rest of the squad.
“De Rossi can play in a lot of roles, just give me the time to get to know him. You need talented players and fortunately Roma have them.
“I don’t want to talk about individuals today though. We are working on transfers and you’ll know more soon.”
A new custodian is high priority after Maarten Stekelenburg was sold to Fulham.
“A great team needs a great goalkeeper and we are working with Sabatini to find one good enough,” Garcia added. “Nobody will be signed without my consent.
“My footballing philosophy won’t change, if you play good football then your chances of winning increases.”