The Giallorossi coach spoke on the eve of the direct clash against Slavia Prague: “We want to win the group and avoid the two playoff matches. The next match with Inter? I’m sorry to be suspended.”
Roma has secured 6 points in the first two matches of the Europa League and now has the opportunity to claim the top spot in the standings. It’s an important match for Roma, as they face Slavia Prague in the third matchday of Europa League Group G.
Slavia is another team with a perfect score in the group. It’s a genuine head-to-head clash for the Giallorossi, and they will play against the Czech team at the Olimpico on Thursday, October 26 at 9 PM. In the lead-up to the match, José Mourinho spoke to Sky Sport.
Roma has won four consecutive matches. What is the team’s current form like?
“We had an excellent response after the heavy defeat against Genoa. Our last victory was obtained without playing well or deserving much, but it shows that the team has confidence. Now, we’re facing Slavia Prague, who is undoubtedly the strongest team in the group. Both teams are in a good position to qualify, unlike last year when we faced more difficulties. If we can avoid the two extra matches we had last year, we should try to do so.”
What challenges does this match present?
“They are very strong in the offensive phase, with good attackers, a midfield that moves the ball well, and even their defenders are skilled in building up play. They almost always win, and when a team consistently wins and competes for titles, as they do, it creates a positive atmosphere.”
Could El Shaarawy have an opportunity to play?
“Yes, he could have a chance. But we are not Inter, and we can’t rotate five players to play in the Champions League. Additionally, we have significant injuries, and two players cannot participate in European matches. We are in a difficult situation, but this team always finds strength in difficult times.
In the next league match, you will face Inter. Do you regret not being on the bench, they say you did it on purpose?
“Many idiots say things that only an idiot would say. Moreover, if these people are from the world of football, then they are even more idiotic. I Roma’s coach, and I want to do what’s best for my team. Unfortunately, I was sent off in the last minute against Monza, and I’m very sorry for one reason, which is that I won’t be able to be with my players.I was sent off for a gesture, but if it applies to me, it should apply equally to everyone.”
What difficulties will you face against Inter?
“The difficulty is that we are playing against a team that, in my opinion, should win the league with a 30-point lead, a very strong team that we always have to be at our highest level to compete against. We don’t have the privilege of having as many players as they do, but we must rely on our strength and compete.
Mourinho also spoke about Romelu Lukaku. The Special One first clarified that the Belgian will be on the field in the Europa League and then discussed the upcoming match, which will see Lukaku’s return to San Siro against Inter:
“Romelu will play,” Mourinho said. “The match against Slavia Prague is very difficult, and he is essential for us, especially in the absence of Dybala and Pellegrini. Lukaku must play.
As for Inter, I didn’t know Romelu was so important for Inter fans, as what he did, winning a Serie A title, the Coppa Italia, and the Supercoppa, has been done by 200 other players at Inter. When Lukaku goes from Inter to Roma to help his coach, it’s a drama, while if Cannavaro goes from Inter to Juventus, there’s no problem, or if Vieri does the same, there’s no problem if Calhanoglu does it….”
