Opinion: Why some love never ends

After nearly six and half years since his departure, the Giallorossi officially welcomed back the Grand Imperial Poobah on Thursday, ringing in his second tenure with the club.

In the days leading up to the official announcement, I have to admit that it was difficult hiding my excitement at the prospect of Spalletti’s return to the club.

For some, it may be difficult to remember back to Spalletti’s first time in charge of the club, after all, five years is an eternity in football. For me, though, the memories of Spalletti’s Roma remain both vivid and beloved.

The re-hiring of Spalletti represents an incredibly shrewd and clever piece of business by Roma president James Pallotta. Looking back over the last decade, the first reign of Spalletti could easily be described the ‘Renaissance’ as Roma enjoyed arguably its brightest period in recent history.

Spalletti brings a bevy of characteristics and experience that makes him the perfect man for the job.

One of the most difficult aspects in football, whether it’s for a player or a manager, is integration. From learning a new language to understanding the culture of the club you’re at it, this is an aspect that you need not worry with Luciano Spalletti.

Thanks to his previous four years in the Italian capital, Spalletti is well aware of the culture at Roma and is very familiar with fans and expectations of the club.

Spalletti will immediately be able to endear himself and get his message across to the players.

Do you remember Spalletti’s style of football? No? Do yourself a favour and go on YouTube before Sunday’s match so you can get a taste of what you’re in for.

Spalletti’s football is both aesthetically pleasing yet effective, something that should please Roma fans.

One common theme that you’ll in Spalletti’s playing style is balance. In his first three seasons with the club, Spalletti’s Roma finished in the top five in both most goals scored and least goals conceded, highlighting his ability to give care and attention to both ends of the pitch.

Furthermore, Spalletti was able to develop and seemingly pull-out untapped talent from several players during his first spell with the club. Now I’m extremely eager to see what he is able to do with youngsters such as Alessandro Florenzi, Antonio Rüdiger and Lucas Digne.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, Roma’s new Mister is a fan of the club, he’s a true Romanista.

There was never any animosity or ill-will when he departed in 2009, in fact it was just the opposite.

Even during his spell in Russia with Zenit Saint Petersburg, Spalletti was never one to hide his love for Roma, always wishing his best for the club.

Now, Spalletti has returned to his beloved club and is able to pick up where he left off, finishing what he started. It’s very true that some loves never end and I, for one, am excited to start the second chapter of the love story that is Luciano Spalletti and AS Roma.