The Giallorossi coach praises Svilar`s performance, which once again kept a clean sheet, solidifying Roma`s position as Europe`s best defense.
AS Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Hellas Verona FC.
With twelve points from five matches, placing them at the top of the league temporarily awaiting the outcome of Milan-Napoli, Gian Piero Gasperini celebrates goals from Dovbyk and Soulè. However, he admits that Verona posed significant challenges to a Roma side that continues its impressive record of not conceding goals. “Hellas demonstrated easier ball circulation and greater energy. We struggled more than anticipated, but the team gritted their teeth and secured an important victory. Playing three matches in a week certainly didn`t help; I observed many fatigued players,” the coach stated, noting his more vocal presence during the game.
Gasperini: `Dovbyk or Ferguson? Here`s how I decide.`
Svilar Shines
“I wasn`t angry, but I was aware of the difficulties several players faced today,” Gasperini continued. “It was our first time playing three matches in seven days, and I saw residual fatigue I hadn`t expected. We`ll need to consider this for future games and reflect, as I saw players struggling whom I didn`t expect to be. We encountered defensive issues today that I hadn`t seen before; there were definitely some problems.” Yet, Roma remains the team with the fewest goals conceded in Europe (only one, against Torino). Significant credit also goes to Svilar: “If Roma`s defensive statistics are this good, a lot is thanks to Svilar, who is often a protagonist even when not making exceptional saves like today. He`s always reliable in game management and positioning, with incredible timing in his clearances. Without a doubt, we have a great goalkeeper; we`re talking about a top-tier talent.”
Dovbyk`s Breakthrough
Dovbyk has also found his scoring touch. “The lad is eager and motivated,” Gasperini affirmed, “I`ve observed his physical and athletic growth. He scored a beautiful goal, and I`m sure it will boost his morale. We need him to continue developing.” Despite moments of frustration, Gasperini is pleased with the results so far. “Naturally, I`m happy to see Roma at 12 points and in first place, awaiting Milan and Napoli, but this is a time when we must evaluate everything we do,” the coach cautioned. “The league is long, and we still need to build and improve. We must succeed in integrating and recovering players like Hermoso, Pellegrini, or Dovbyk himself, who scored today. Everyone`s contribution is essential when playing so many matches in a week.” Finally, a remark about Mel Gibson, present in the stands with a Roma scarf: “Did we entertain him? Well, that`s important, isn`t it (laughs)? Jokes aside, he`s a great actor, and we hope to entertain him in the future too.”
US actor Mel Gibson watching the Serie A match between AS Roma and Hellas Verona.
