Claudio Ranieri is back where he belongs, and AS Roma couldn't be more thrilled. On November 14, 2024, the club announced his appointment as the new head coach of the first team. This marks Ranieri's third tenure at Roma, and fans are buzzing with excitement at the return of their legendary figure.
Ranieri, who has long been associated with the club not just as its coach but as a die-hard supporter, will take the reins for the remainder of the season. Following this, his role will shift to senior advisor, where he will lend his vast experience to the ownership on various sporting matters. This transition is expected to stabilize the club during what has been a rocky period on and off the pitch.
His recruitment follows the disappointing short reign of Ivan Juric, who managed to secure just four wins from 12 matches, leaving Roma sitting precariously at 12th place on the Serie A table, only four points above the relegation zone. Juric's coaching stint ended after the team suffered a 3-2 defeat at home to Bologna, sparking the need for urgent action.
Clubs tend to seek out familiar faces during turbulent times, and Ranieri’s return is precisely the kind of reassuring move they hope will lift spirits. Known for his tactical prowess and leadership, Ranieri brings to the table substantial experience grounded not just in Serie A, but also from his time managing teams across the Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue 1. Most memorably, he led Leicester City to the Premier League title, cementing his place as one of football's most celebrated managers.
The announcement from AS Roma highlighted the deep connection Ranieri has with the club. “He embodies the values of the club and stands as one of the most respected figures globally within the sporting community,” the statement read. Upon his return, fans welcomed him with open arms, showering him with chants like old times.
His previous reigns at Roma—from 2009 to 2011 and briefly again during the 2019 season—saw him galvanize the team and connect passionately with its supporters. Followers of the club are now filled with hope, eager to see how Ranieri will produce results as he embarks on yet another challenging season.
Ranieri is stepping back onto familiar ground, and there is much at stake. Fans are eager for results, as he takes on the monumental task of steering this ship back to calmer waters against the backdrop of recent turmoil. Only time will tell if this beloved figure can bring back the glory days to the capital club.
