Gianluca Petrachi believes Roma’s work in the transfer market over the summer proves they are not ‘a feeder club for anyone’.
Kostas Manolas and Stephan El Shaarawy were the only starters to leave Roma as they managed to convince Edin Dzeko into not only knocking back interest from Inter but also signing a new contract.
“Mkhitaryan preferred Roma over a few more million, knowing he was choosing a club who best suited his sporting needs,” Petrachi said at Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s official unveiling.
Gianluca Petrachi believes Roma’s work in the transfer market over the summer proves they are not ‘a feeder club for anyone’.
Kostas Manolas and Stephan El Shaarawy were the only starters to leave Roma as they managed to convince Edin Dzeko into not only knocking back interest from Inter but also signing a new contract.
“Mkhitaryan preferred Roma over a few more million, knowing he was choosing a club who best suited his sporting needs,” Petrachi said at Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s official unveiling.
“Edin was Roma’s No 9. I wanted to keep him. I didn’t tell anyone my strategy, but I always wanted to keep him.
“The winds were changing, as were Roma: I tried to make him understand that. I met Inter in May and set my price, a price that was never met.
“With that in mind, I made him understand that he would never have been as important for Inter as he was for Roma.
“Our first choice was always Edin and I’m glad he understood that.”
The former Torino sporting director was then asked about Patrik Schick, the Giallorossi’s record purchase who left for RB Leipzig.
“Not everything works out in football. Schick had created expectations and dreams for fans, he was almost poached by Juve.
“He needed a different experience and we hope he eventually shows his ability. Roma were no longer the right environment for him. He can do well, he remains our asset.
“I’m proud to have honoured the promises we made on our first day together, when I said Roma wouldn’t be a feeder club for anyone.
“That was understood by everyone. Everyone understood that Roma wouldn’t be pushed around.
“I put all my efforts into building an important squad for Fonseca, and the renewals of Under and Zaniolo confirm our idea of focusing on good, young players.
“The Coach must believe in his philosophy, continuing to work to achieve the results we want.”