Gian Piero Gasperini expressed significant frustration following Roma’s 4-1 friendly defeat against Cardiff City, stating that the current squad requires urgent attention. The manager explicitly requested four specific additions, noting that he is looking for a defender, a winger, and two strikers to round out his team. Roma’s pre-season form has been inconsistent, following a 3-0 lead that resulted in a draw against Cannes before the heavy loss to the Welsh side.
Gasperini pointed to defensive struggles during the first half of the Cardiff match, where the team conceded goals due to unfortunate ricochets. He criticized the team for being distracted and lacking the necessary fitness levels, warning that such lapses in concentration will prove costly. The coach emphasized that with Roma set to compete in the Champions League, having at least two players per role is essential, cautioning that any failure to achieve this depth will result in a heavy price for the club.
Reflecting on the transfer window, Gasperini acknowledged that the market has been slow due to the World Cup but maintained that he expects action from the directors. He highlighted that the club has lost many players and currently faces issues with injuries and fitness, as three midfielders are sidelined and some new arrivals are not yet prepared. While the club successfully signed Santiago Castro from Bologna for €35 million plus add-ons, the coach noted the need for further rotation options, suggesting that Castro and Donyell Malen could eventually play together.
Gasperini reiterated that his requests are neither difficult nor insurmountable, stressing that replacements are necessary whenever a player departs. He praised the signing of Castro, who was eager to join the club, as a positive step toward improving the team's quality. Ultimately, the manager remains focused on securing the necessary personnel to ensure the squad is competitive for the upcoming campaign.
“I think we were struggling in some situations, especially in defence during the first half, conceding goals with odd ricochets,” Gasperini told Tuttomercatoweb.
“Compared to last term, I asked for a defender, a winger, and two strikers. Of course, if a player leaves, then he has to be replaced too. This was my objective, it doesn’t seem so difficult or insurmountable to me.
