Walter Sabatini does not regret waiting for Luciano Spalletti, as “Roma couldn’t have won the Scudetto against Juventus.”
The director of sport spoke to Mediaset Premium ahead of tonight’s Champions League semi-final between Manchester City and Real Madrid.
“I wouldn’t say we have regrets about our two games against Real Madrid, as we played at an acceptable level and worked very hard. I can’t say we were unlucky as such either, as that would be the wrong approach.
Walter Sabatini does not regret waiting for Luciano Spalletti, as “Roma couldn’t have won the Scudetto against Juventus.”
The director of sport spoke to Mediaset Premium ahead of tonight’s Champions League semi-final between Manchester City and Real Madrid.
“I wouldn’t say we have regrets about our two games against Real Madrid, as we played at an acceptable level and worked very hard. I can’t say we were unlucky as such either, as that would be the wrong approach.
“We played every game in a dignified manner. At one stage during the second half, I did believe we’d make it, as we created two huge scoring opportunities and could’ve got back into the tie, but unfortunately it didn’t happen.
“We hope to be in the Champions League again next season so we can make up for it.”
Since Spalletti took over from Rudi Garcia in January, Roma have surged up the Serie A standings to within two points of second-placed Napoli. Does Sabatini regret not sacking Garcia earlier?
“Everyone knows in football there is always going to be a legitimate doubt about how things could’ve gone. Spalletti had an incredible run of results and his average points tally is clearly what you’d need to win the Scudetto.
“Mind you, Roma couldn’t have won the Scudetto anyway, as Juventus won 24 out of 25 rounds. It’s unthinkable and can never be replicated again, I think.
“We would’ve been more competitive, certainly. Spalletti arrived when he had to arrive. He had extraordinary results, but Garcia picked up 155 points in two years, so it was only right we protect him all the way.
“Spalletti is an excellent Coach and a great man, who knows how to work both on and off the field, making the best use of his collaborators.
“I am stunned by what he has been able to do with this group. If you don’t have a leader out there, great players are not enough. In didactic terms, Spalletti is the best.”