Daniele De Rossi is eagerly embracing the challenge of reviving Roma’s fortunes as he steps into the role of head coach, succeeding Jose Mourinho, who was dismissed along with his coaching staff. The swift appointment of De Rossi, a club legend and former Italy midfielder, until the end of the season signals a homecoming for the 40-year-old.
Having spent 18 years with the Giallorossi as a player, De Rossi is grateful to the Friedkin family for entrusting him with the responsibility of the head coach role. In his statement, De Rossi expresses his commitment to the task, emphasizing dedication, daily sacrifices, and giving his all to face the challenges that lie ahead.
“The excitement of being able to sit on our bench is indescribable. Everyone knows what Roma means to me. However, the work that awaits us all has already taken precedence. We have no time or choice but to be competitive, fight for our goals and try to achieve them, which are the only priorities my staff and I have set for ourselves,” says De Rossi.
With 616 appearances and 63 goals for Roma, De Rossi is the club’s second-highest appearance maker. The timing of his appointment comes as Roma finds themselves in the ninth position in the league, and the owners, Dan and Ryan Friedkin, are banking on De Rossi to provide a much-needed lift to the team.
Expressing their satisfaction with the appointment, the Friedkin duo states, “We are happy to be able to hand over the managerial role of Roma to Daniele. We feel the leadership and ambition that have always defined him can prove decisive in achieving the team’s objectives until the end of the season.”
Recognizing De Rossi’s unbreakable bond with the club and his enthusiasm for accepting the position, the owners welcome him home and express confidence in his ability to guide the players and represent the club’s values proudly. The focus is now on the shared goals and priorities set by De Rossi and his coaching staff as they work towards rejuvenating Roma’s performance for the remainder of the season.