Ahead of the match against Juventus, Roma coach Claudio Ranieri addressed the media in a press conference: “As we did at Christmas, we will train at Tre Fontane on Easter Monday to allow fans, both young and old, to come and watch us.”
When asked about Juventus and team news, Ranieri stated, “Juventus has changed their playing style, coach, everything. I expect a more determined Juventus, as we saw against Genoa. A week of work? They will be more specific in all of Tudor`s requests. Celik has recovered, Rensch is recovering, but won`t be on the bench. I don`t want to risk him. The others are all fine.”
Regarding Hummels` condition, Ranieri commented, “Hummels was fine even after Bilbao. He is a champion and has no problems in this aspect. When a team defends well, it`s because everyone works to recover balls and play them. It`s a great effort from both the offense and defense.”
Reflecting on the rivalry between Roma and Juventus, Ranieri said, “My separation from Juventus was not traumatic. If I ever write a book, I will talk about it. I will tell my truth, which is the truth, because I can`t lie. What do I expect? A great match, exciting and vibrant. A challenge between two teams fighting for something more. Nothing is easy, but the chances are equal. I want our fans to be proud. We can win, draw, or lose, but the fans must leave saying, `at least they fought until the end.`”
When questioned about potential lies, Ranieri firmly replied, “No lies.”
About needing more playmakers in such a game, Ranieri emphasized, “I need 11 players who fight for every ball. On Sunday, we need to run and fight.”
On the absence of Saelemaekers and the choice between Soulè and El Shaarawy, Ranieri responded, “I will choose as usual on Sunday evening.”
Addressing the issue of few points against top rivals, Ranieri explained, “I haven`t considered it from that perspective. A match contains many mini-matches and is unique. Juventus started well and is up there. We started poorly, so it will be a great match. We have a difficult schedule, but others are not in a better position. We will try to make every game difficult for our opponents.”
Speaking about Konè, Ranieri praised him: “He is a great player with much to learn and improve. To have a 23-year-old player who does what he does is remarkable.”
Regarding Dybala, Ranieri affirmed, “He hasn`t changed our impressions or decisions about Paulo at all. He is an important player for us, and we are counting on him a lot for next season as well.”
About Pellegrini, Ranieri said, “Pellegrini is a player with so much quality, he is always available, and I rely on him greatly.”
When asked about calculations for Lazio-Roma, Ranieri denied any: “We haven`t made calculations even during the season. I thought about playing whoever is in better shape, a combination of mentality and physical condition. Knowing them, I know who is in shape and who isn`t.”
Finally, on Ndicka, Ranieri concluded, “I like him because he is always focused, always ready. Good in speed and with his feet. Does he need to improve? I am happy with him as he is. I talk to him a lot, you talk about him little.”