New Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini has revealed a significant shift in the club`s leadership strategy, confirming that Lorenzo Pellegrini will no longer hold the sole captaincy. Gasperini stated, “I currently have 7-8 captains, and my aim is to expand that number to 15 or even 20.”
This announcement came during a press conference at the team`s UK pre-season training camp, which will conclude with friendly matches against Aston Villa and Everton.
Gasperini Eases Captaincy Burden on Pellegrini
When questioned about whether Pellegrini, who has been the undisputed Giallorossi captain since 2021, would retain the armband this season, Gasperini provided clarity. “It will not be an issue,” the former Atalanta coach affirmed.
“We will implement a system that has consistently proven effective under my leadership: the captain`s armband will be given to the player with the most appearances for the club.”
“I currently see 7-8 players as leaders, and my ambition is to see that number grow to 15 or even 20. True captains are those who dedicate themselves to the team and demonstrate a strong sense of belonging.”
“This hierarchy is solely based on a player`s number of club appearances, with no other factors being considered.”
This decision is also timely, as Pellegrini`s current injury would have prevented him from wearing the armband at the start of the season regardless. Gasperini added, “He was kept in Rome to concentrate on his full recovery and to enhance his fitness levels.”
Despite Pellegrini being a product of the Roma academy, having grown up supporting and representing the club, he is not currently the player with the highest number of appearances. That distinction belongs to Stephan El Shaarawy, with 320 appearances for the Giallorossi, closely followed by Bryan Cristante at 318. Pellegrini ranks third with 316 matches, significantly ahead of Gianluca Mancini, who has 274 appearances.
