Francesco Totti discussed the Rome Derby, Scudetto race and why Roma starlet Nicolò Zaniolo “needs to keep his feet on the ground.”
The Derby della Capitale is on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I am watching Roma, listening, analysing, but it still feels strange not being there,” the former captain and club director told Rai Sport.
Francesco Totti discussed the Rome Derby, Scudetto race and why Roma starlet Nicolò Zaniolo “needs to keep his feet on the ground.”
The Derby della Capitale is on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I am watching Roma, listening, analysing, but it still feels strange not being there,” the former captain and club director told Rai Sport.
“I might be at the Derby. People think Lazio are the favourites, but then the favourites usually lose in the Derby, so we hope it brings good luck!”
He walked away from his role within the Roma ranks, maintaining he had been marginalised and they were not being honest with the fans or players.
Now a mere fan himself, Totti is even more determined to see the Giallorossi back on track.
“This squad needs to be reinforced. Roma really needed a striker like Edin Dzeko, though, so the contract renewal was positive. You can’t qualify for the Champions League without quality players.
“Kostas Manolas is one of the best centre-backs in Europe and now that he’s next to Kalidou Koulibaly, it’ll be difficult to get past them at Napoli.
“Juventus remain the team to beat, even if it could be different this season. Juve, Napoli and Inter have strengthened the most and for everyone else it’ll be challenging for between fourth and seventh place.
“Antonio Conte is an extra weapon for Inter and one of the best Coaches in Europe. Romelu Lukaku is a phenomenal striker, as he can run the attack himself and be devastating to defenders.”
Totti was also asked about Roma talent Nicolò Zaniolo, who has been dropped from the senior Italy squad – along with Moise Kean – after repeatedly turning up late during the European Under-21 Championship.
“You must have respect for the group, first and foremost, then individual players come after. Zaniolo has to keep his feet on the ground, as he is a good player, but you need more than five or six good games to be considered a top player.
“He still has an awful lot to prove. He can make the difference and I’m sure he will in future.”