In a move that could redefine team leadership dynamics, AS Roma`s newly appointed coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, has announced a significant shift in the club`s captaincy policy. From now on, the iconic armband will no longer be the sole preserve of a single individual, but rather a rotating symbol of experience, bestowed upon the player with the most appearances for the Giallorossi. This decision, revealed during a training session in Burton Upon Trent, England, signals a clear strategic philosophy from the veteran manager.
A System of Collective Leadership
Gasperini`s rationale is straightforward: to foster a broader sense of responsibility and commitment across the squad. “The armband issue doesn`t exist,” Gasperini stated, emphasizing the simplicity of the new approach. “We will adopt a system that has always worked very well, giving the armband to the player with the most appearances. With me, there are 7-8 captains, and I hope they become 15 or even 20.” This philosophy champions collective accountability, asserting that true leadership extends beyond a single designated individual.
Under this new mandate, the captain`s armband will be a fluid designation. Currently, the most experienced players by club appearances include:
- Stephan El Shaarawy: 320 appearances
- Bryan Cristante: 318 appearances
- Lorenzo Pellegrini: 316 appearances
- Gianluca Mancini: 274 appearances
This rotational system means that while Lorenzo Pellegrini, who has been the official captain since 2021, remains a pivotal figure, the visible symbol of leadership will now shift based purely on longevity and dedication to the club`s colours. Gasperini`s intent is to create a culture where every player, regardless of their armband status, embodies the spirit of a leader.
Pellegrini`s Position and Dovbyk`s Development
For those quick to speculate about Pellegrini`s standing, Gasperini clarified that the change is purely systemic, not a reflection of his confidence in the player. “Lorenzo is currently stopped, he started training in Rome to improve his preparation,” Gasperini noted, indicating Pellegrini`s focus is on recovery and readiness. The emphasis is clearly on the team`s overall structure rather than individual hierarchies.
The conversation also touched upon the development of striker Dovbyk, a significant summer acquisition. Gasperini acknowledged Dovbyk`s inherent value and goal-scoring ability but highlighted areas for refinement. “Dovbyk is a centre-forward who was paid a good sum and did very well in Spain. All things considered, he scored his goals even in his first year in Italy. He is certainly a valuable striker, but we are here to work and improve his shortcomings,” Gasperini explained. He particularly stressed the importance of intelligent movement off the ball, drawing an intriguing analogy: “It`s like in music: if you`re out of tune or if you have the right tempo. And he can do well in this.” A subtle nod to the precision required in modern football, perhaps suggesting some players are still finding their rhythm.
The Quest for Attacking Prowess
Gasperini`s assessment of the squad`s attacking needs revealed a nuanced understanding of the transfer market. He distinguished between “completing” the squad and “strengthening” it, a crucial distinction in the high-stakes world of top-tier football. While refusing to comment on specific transfer targets like Echeverri, he emphasized the universal appeal of “good players” and the strategic importance of offensive firepower.
“We already have an almost formed team, perhaps there are some roles where we are a bit short given that we will play a lot. But completing is one thing, and strengthening is another. How many players are missing? It depends on what we want to do. And everything depends on how strong we want to be upfront, that`s where we will more or less determine the strength of the team. After all, all teams look for attackers, which is why large sums are spent. The offensive department is the most sought after and expensive; when you have strong players in attack, you are also more competitive.”
Finally, an update on Paulo Dybala confirmed his ongoing recovery from an intervention, with hopes of him rejoining the main group next week. His return will undoubtedly add another layer of quality to Roma`s offensive options.
Gasperini`s arrival at AS Roma brings not just a new tactical approach but also a clear shift in the team`s internal governance. By decentralizing the captaincy, he aims to cultivate a more unified and self-reliant squad, a collective of leaders rather than a reliance on a single figure. Whether this “armband revolution” translates into on-field success remains to be seen, but it certainly sets an intriguing tone for the upcoming season.