Roma Exec Serene on Pellegrini, Downplays Requests by Mourinho

Roma CEO Tiago Pinto sensed that a lot has changed for the better around Roma: “The whole environment bounced back, as it is always the case when the results are good. The fans have understood that the Friedkin family is changing the club. We are happy for that, but the project takes time.”

“It is not necessarily true that a coach constantly needs to put pressure on the management. That is not my method, nor José Mourinho operates like that. We talk and work in unison every day without much stress. We are on the same page as we both want to develop our youngsters.”

The director touched on Lorenzo Pellegrini’s extension: “The ownership gave the players a solid and cohesive plan. He brings a lot of quality and professionalism to the table. The level of leadership he has reached was an important change. We want him to stay and Roma, and he does too. The negotiation is complex and requires a few more steps. But there are no issues whatsoever.” 

Mourinho stated after the win over CSKA Sofia: “Pellegrini told me that he would put pen-to-paper in the next few days. This will further solidify his relationship with the fans. His bond with the club is essential to us.”

Pinto also explained why they decided to sign Eldor Shomurodov: “Since day one, we realized we needed three strikers, and we searched for a more dynamic player. Our scouting department suggested him. We are happy with this choice, and he has a lot of room to grow. He will become even better once he has fully adapted to Roma. He can learn a lot under Mourinho. Maybe the fans did not understand our choice at first, but now it is clear that he can become a really strong player.”