Davide Zappacosta had “no doubts” about choosing Roma and remembers their fans “drowned out” the Chelsea supporters at Stamford Bridge.
It is a very unusual transfer, a six-month loan with option to extend until the end of the season.
Before completing the move, he also signed a new contract with Chelsea that runs to June 2022.
Davide Zappacosta had “no doubts” about choosing Roma and remembers their fans “drowned out” the Chelsea supporters at Stamford Bridge.
It is a very unusual transfer, a six-month loan with option to extend until the end of the season.
Before completing the move, he also signed a new contract with Chelsea that runs to June 2022.
“I had known about Roma interest for some time, but there were some things to get sorted out first,” Zappacosta told Roma TV.
“I had no doubts, as this is a big opportunity for me and I want to give my all for these colours straight away. I am very happy to be here after a difficult year, as starting again from such an important club is very exciting. I can’t wait to work with my new teammates.”
The former Torino full-back spent two seasons at Chelsea under Italian Coaches Antonio Conte and Maurizio Sarri.
“I’ve grown a great deal over the last two years at Chelsea, as it really helped form my character. I arrived in a different environment, with a new language and culture. It was not easy, but nonetheless a very positive experience that helped me to grow as a man and a player.”
Roma beat Chelsea 3-0 in the Champions League and played a 3-3 thriller at Stamford Bridge too in 2017.
“Unfortunately for me, they were not the most positive games for Chelsea. I remember the stifling noise of the Giallorossi fans at Stamford Bridge, as they were drowning out the home crowd. The atmosphere at the Olimpico is also crazy. I think it’ll be so exciting to play with a crowd like that.”
Zappacosta already worked with Roma director of sport Gianluca Petrachi at Torino.
“Petrachi’s presence was very important for me, as I know what kind of person he is and the passion he puts into his work. He influenced my decision, but in truth I had no doubts about Roma anyway, as it’s a big club with talented young players and all they need to do well.
“I spoke to Coach Paulo Fonseca for 10 minutes at lunch, when I introduced myself to my new teammates. I heard good things about him and I can’t wait to start work. They tell me he’s a hard worker with clear ideas and a good motivator.
“It is in my favour that he likes full-backs who push forward, but defending is also important. I am accustomed to attacking a lot, so I hope to give my best here.
“It’s positive that Roma are building a group of Italian players, especially as they are also quite young. It’s important going into Euro 2020 that young homegrown talent gets to play regularly.”