Gian Piero Gasperini conveyed satisfaction with Evan Ferguson`s performance during AS Roma`s 1-0 friendly victory against Kaiserslautern. Nevertheless, the coach simultaneously emphasized the critical need for additional new signings for his squad, stating unequivocally, “It`s simply the reality, and we cannot afford to be hypocrites.”
Roma secured a narrow 1-0 win over the German side Kaiserslautern in their pre-season friendly on Saturday.
“It was a preparatory match, and we controlled the field effectively,” Gasperini remarked to journalists after the game. “The team already possesses a distinct identity, though every facet, including physical condition, can certainly be refined. We executed some positive plays. Towards the match`s conclusion, we introduced several young talents, which altered the dynamics of the game in the second half with an entirely new lineup.”
The new Giallorossi coach further elucidated their tactical approach: “We had no intention of consistently pressing their goalkeeper. While they often initiated play through him, we only applied occasional pressure, as a continuous high press would have been excessively demanding.”
Gasperini`s Assessment of Brighton Loanee Ferguson
“Ferguson is a player adept at pressing and consequently creating scoring opportunities. Winning the ball high up the pitch significantly increases your chances of finding the net. We need to become fully acquainted with Evan`s strengths and leverage his ability to make runs into space. In certain situations, we could have looked for him more. It`s an aspect we need to cultivate – becoming more accustomed to involving our strikers, and this is something I will actively work on during matches.”
Gasperini had previously urged the club to accelerate new acquisitions just last week, and he reiterated a similar message this time around.
When pressed on the precise number of new players required to complete his team, Gasperini responded:
Gasperini Advocates for More Roma Signings
“You`re posing this question to me? I`ve been keeping count since May, since the season concluded, and it`s straightforward arithmetic,” Gasperini asserted. “This is not an excuse; it`s simply the factual situation, and we cannot be deceptive. Just consider who has departed and who is currently missing from the squad. Arithmetic is not a subjective opinion; it is a simple tally.”
Beyond Ferguson, who arrived at the Stadio Olimpico on a loan deal from Brighton with an option for a permanent transfer, Roma has also secured Neil El Aynaoui from Lens and is on the verge of welcoming Wesley from Flamengo.
The Brazilian attacker landed in the capital early Sunday morning but is scheduled to return to Brazil after his medical examinations and contract signing to finalize the necessary bureaucratic paperwork for his move to Roma.
“Coaches consistently desire swift action because, otherwise, what is the true purpose of pre-season if a substantial portion of the squad undergoes significant changes? This principle applies universally, but it is the inherent nature of transfers,” Gasperini concluded. “I am hopeful that our collective vision can be fully realized. I understand that achieving this takes more than a month, but I don`t know the exact timeframe because the transfer window and coaches` timelines are seldom aligned. It would be ideal to bring to fruition what both the club and I envision.”