AS Roma head coach Claudio Ranieri has offered insights about the club's precarious financial situation and the recent decisions concerning player management after their disappointing defeat to AC Milan. Following the January transfer window, Ranieri spoke candidly about the significance of cost-cutting measures before embarking on future signings.
During his pre-match press conference, Ranieri addressed the financial realities faced by the Giallorossi, emphasizing the need for increased revenue and diminished expenditures. "What I’ve said about the Friedkins is true. They’ve spent a load of money and... they put in over a billion. They will spend another one to build the stadium," he stated, as reported by TMW. This declaration outlines the monumental investments the Friedkin family has made—a sum believed to surpass 1.2 billion euros—while acknowledging the mixed reception of their expenditure strategy.
Ranieri highlighted the necessity of adhering to Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, which presents constraints on player salaries and market activity moving forward. "We know FFP must be respected. We need to be able to increase income and decrease expenditure," he explained, reiteratively focusing on the club's long-term financial health.
When asked about the club's potential maneuvers for the upcoming summer transfer market, Ranieri pointed out the importance of lowering the wage bill. "If we want to sign players and make the Friedkins spend 100m, we have to lower the wage bill," he elaborated. This acknowledgment reflects the complex balancing act required of top clubs confronting tight fiscal controls.
Ranieri's focus isn’t merely on the financial balance sheets; it extends to the performance on the field. Addressing the aftermath of the 3-1 loss to Milan, he stated, "Mentally, we weren’t missing anything... I didn’t see them give up, even at 3-1." This sentiment is uplifting, considering the pressure athletes face during trying times like exiting domestic competitions such as the Coppa Italia.
For the looming Serie A encounter against Venezia, Ranieri made the notable decision to grant Leandro Paredes and Mats Hummels some much-needed time off. "Neither Hummels or Paredes are called up, I gave them a holiday because they need to recharge," he informed the media. This strategy suggests foresight as the coach aims to preserve players’ energy levels throughout the grueling league season.
Additional discussions around player recruitment brought attention to recent additions, with Ranieri remarking on the difficulties of integrating new talents. "With playing every three days, just getting them to train is not easy," he noted, highlighting the challenges faced by newcomers to acclimatize to both the Italian league's demands and the lifestyles they encounter.
Despite these challenges, the club has successfully added five players in the recent transfer window, which Ranieri believes will help formulate a stronger squad. Although he desired to acquire attacking prospect Kolo Muani, he confirmed they could not move forward with the signing due to finances. "I sincerely hope so. We wanted Kolo Muani, both me and the President, but we couldn’t. It’s easy to talk," he reflected, shedding light on ambitions curbed by fiscal realities.
Moving forward, Ranieri appears optimistic. He urged fans to exhibit patience with the Friedkin ownership, hinting at the potential for significant developments. "The English say, 'Rome wasn’t built in a day'—give the club time to do what they have in mind," he quoted, emphasizing the long-term vision required for success.
Looking to the match against Venezia, Ranieri established his expectations for the team. He urged his players to display character and resilience, reminding them, "I want to see the Roma" on the field. Following the Copa Italia defeat, it will be pivotal for the squad to respond positively to the adversity they’re facing and to showcase their competitive spirit for the supporters and city they represent.