Ranieri: ‘Pellegrini Is training Like a Top Student, Zalewski’s Renewal? Wait and See…’

Roma manager Claudio Ranieri addressed the media ahead of his team’s upcoming match against Bologna at the Dall’Ara stadium. The veteran coach discussed various topics, including player performances, transfer market strategies, and team mentality.

On Lorenzo Pellegrini’s recent form, Ranieri was full of praise: “Let’s enjoy this Lorenzo. He’s training like a top student, focused and relaxed. I’ll make my decisions on Saturday evening.”

Regarding the January transfer window, Ranieri emphasized the need for quality over quantity: “We know there are difficulties. It’s not certain that we’ll find players in this January market. Whoever comes must give us something more. We’re thinking about the current market. My concentration is 100% on Sunday’s game.”

The coach also commented on young talent Matías Soulé: “I like him a lot, and he hasn’t made any requests. He knows he has a bright future with us. I want practical players. I can’t think that he touches the ball 10 times and then plays it 3-4 times with nothing happening. I want something important to happen when he receives the ball. He’ll get there gradually.”

On Bryan Cristante’s injury status, Ranieri provided an update: “Bryan is doing well, and his ankle is no longer swelling. He’ll return to the field tomorrow and will soon rejoin the group.”

Addressing rumors about Mats Hummels and Nicola Zalewski, Ranieri stated: “Hummels depends on whether he wants to stay. He’s free to choose, and if he’s comfortable, he can stay. Zalewski always trains well; we’ll wait and see.”

The coach expressed disappointment about the travel ban for Roma fans from the Lazio region: “I’m very sorry that our fans can’t come. Our supporters are too important for us. I hope something can be done.”

Ranieri also reflected on his role within the club: “I hope to be neither the father nor the grandfather and so on. I hope to have respect. Like any human, I can make mistakes, but our fans can be super convinced that if I make a mistake, it’s because I have a vision. If I make a mistake, it’s to try to improve Roma.”

Finally, addressing the team’s mentality, especially in away games, Ranieri said: “I don’t think we lack mentality. We’re missing that mental-motivational aspect that makes you give that little extra. We’re close to it. You’ve seen that our matches are spirited. We’re getting close to winning away. I believe in large numbers. Sooner or later, we’ll get there.”

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