Roma manager Daniele De Rossi has addressed Paulo Dybala’s decision to turn down a lucrative offer from the Middle East. During a press conference ahead of Sunday’s encounter against Empoli, the former Giallorossi captain described the Argentine’s choice as ‘rare in today’s football.’
Dybala seemed on the verge of leaving Roma for a mega-money contract in Qatar until a few days ago. However, the ex-Juventus forward performed a late U-turn on his initial decision, opting to stay at the Stadio Olimpico.
In today’s market, it’s a true rarity. Yet, Dybala has pledged his future to Roma and could start today against Empoli, with De Rossi’s side bidding to bounce back from a disappointing 0-0 draw at Cagliari on the opening weekend.
“Dybala’s choice is very rare in today’s world of football,” the Roma boss said. “It was a very emotional situation full of ups and downs. Now the fans see in him not only a technical leader, they must also be proud of him.
“I expect the Olimpico to give him a special welcome tomorrow.”
Dybala partnered with marquee summer signing Artem Dovbyk at the Unipol Domus last weekend. But Roma couldn’t break down Cagliari’s rock-solid defensive set-up, leaving Sardinia with a point.
Roma are odds-on to make amends for that underwhelming result against Empoli. The visitors kept hold of their Serie A status last season by the skin of their teeth. But they’ll take the field in a confident mood after a scoreless home draw against Monza on day one.
 |
Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football |