Zeman: ‘Roma talks are advanced’

Zdenek Zeman has confirmed he “had talks with Roma and we are already at an advanced stage,” while he looks forward to working with Francesco Totti again.

Zdenek Zeman has confirmed he “had talks with Roma and we are already at an advanced stage,” while he looks forward to working with Francesco Totti again.

The Pescara Coach earned promotion from Serie B, but seems ready to make a return to the Stadio Olimpico as a replacement for Luis Enrique.

“I had talks with Roma and we are already at an advanced stage,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

Zeman suggests his previous tenure was ruined by refereeing decisions, perhaps as ‘punishment’ for his accusations that sparked an investigation into the use of medication in sport.

“This is not ‘revenge’ in coming back here after 13 years. When I left, it was due to a political issue. In 1998 the doping scandal erupted and the team lost more than 20 points due to the decisions of others.

“If they had continued with me, they would not have done any better, so it was only right to change.”

Captain Totti gave some of his best performances under Zeman and is still at the centre of the team project.

“It’s too early to talk about this, but if Totti proves he is good as a centre-forward then he will always play. With me the best always play, regardless of their names or ages.”