Following Roma’s 1-1 draw against Bologna in the Europa League, head coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressed his frustration with reporters during the post-match press conference, emphatically stating that they should ‘leave Lorenzo Pellegrini alone.’
Pellegrini, who entered the Round of 16 clash at Stadio Dall’Ara as a substitute, netted what proved to be a crucial equalizer, nullifying Federico Bernardeschi’s opening goal.
This vital goal came mere days after Pellegrini’s lackluster display against Genoa. Consequently, when journalists questioned Gasperini about the former captain’s form and situation, the coach displayed clear annoyance.
Gasperini Stands Up for Midfielder Pellegrini
“Leave the poor lad alone,” Gasperini retorted. “He performs well in some matches and less so in others, just like any player. His goal today doesn’t alter our overall assessment of him. It’s essential to remain objective.”
Pellegrini’s current contract is set to expire on June 30th. It appears improbable that Roma will successfully negotiate a new agreement with the midfielder, who has spent the vast majority of his professional career at the Stadio Olimpico.
Reporters also probed Gasperini about the injury status of Manu Koné and Matias Soulé, neither of whom were present on the substitutes’ bench for the match.
“Realistically, I don’t anticipate Soulé’s return until after the upcoming international break, and even then, precise predictions are challenging,” Gasperini stated. Regarding Koné, he explained, “This is the first European fixture he’s missed with us. He hadn’t fully recovered from the Genoa game, and we opted against taking any risks, especially with an upcoming match against Como followed by the second leg against Bologna.”
