Ranieri Reflects on Roma’s Tactical Challenges Ahead of Genoa Clash

ROME, Italy — Ahead of Roma‘s Serie A match against Genoa, manager Claudio Ranieri addressed the media on Jan. 16, 2025, offering insights into the team’s tactical adjustments, player development, and the challenges of maintaining consistency midseason. Ranieri emphasized the need for defensive discipline and smart running as Roma prepares to face a compact and counter-attacking Genoa side.

“With a three-man midfield structured as ours is, we’re much more pragmatic,” Ranieri said. “I’m asking my defenders to stop Genoa’s attackers on the counter. They’re a very compact team, great at closing down spaces and hitting teams on the counter-attack. We’ll have to be tactically very smart.”

Ranieri also addressed the potential departure of captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, stating, “As I’ve always said, anything is possible in the world of football. However, I don’t think that it’s going to happen. If a team came in for him and he was happy to leave… But I think that’s the case for any player. That being said, I don’t think he’s leaving. That’s my hunch.”

On the topic of young talent Matias Soulé, Ranieri expressed confidence in the Argentine’s development. “I’ve got a lot of faith in the lad. I’m convinced that he can be part of Roma’s future. He’s improving. I often ask him to be more practical and to take fewer touches. He’s staying at Roma.”

Ranieri also voiced frustration over the ban on Roma fans attending the upcoming match in Udine. “I’m sorry – that’s the first I’ve heard of it. We’ll try to sort something out. We play for the fans – there’s nothing better than their support. I hope that we’re able to make something happen.”

Regarding the team’s recent form, Ranieri acknowledged Roma’s struggles away from home. “I think Genoa have the same record as us. They’ve got three away wins. They manage to win away, whereas we can’t.” He also stressed the importance of focus and defensive discipline, particularly in avoiding over-commitment in attack.

Ranieri’s pragmatic approach extends to his long-term vision for the team. “Since I came in as coach, the aim has been to take things game by game. I’ve never been into misleading the fans and overpromising. We need to give Roma an attractive, steadfast, and practical identity, to make our fans proud.”

As Roma continues to navigate a packed schedule, Ranieri remains focused on steady progress. “We’ve got seven games in 21 days. We’ll have to be on point every time and recover physical but especially mental energy. That’s what’s most important.”