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Fonseca confirms first starts for Calafiori and Fuzato


Here's what coach Paulo Fonseca had to say ahead of Roma's final game of the Serie A season, against Juventus on Saturday.

The game at Juventus Stadium gets underway at 20:45 CEST, although both teams have already confirmed their finishing positions for the current campaign.

This is what the boss had to say to questions submitted by reporters, with attention already starting to turn to next week's Europa League meeting with Sevilla.

How much will failing to qualify for the Champions League have an impact on next season?

“I have always said that assessments like that should be made at the end of the season. At the end of the season I will do that, without any issues, but right now we still have a game against and the Europa League to focus on. After that we’ll talk about it.”

Could Riccardo Calafiori start tomorrow? Are you considering having him as part of the squad next season?

“Calafiori will start tomorrow. I think it’s a good opportunity to see how he gets on at this level.”

Pau Lopez is going through a tough spell right now, is that because of a mental or physical issue? Could Antonio Mirante be under consideration for the game against Sevilla?

“I have complete faith in Pau Lopez. He’s had a great season, there’s no problem with him – I have complete faith in Pau.”

Is there one reason above the rest that you think made it harder to fight to qualify for the Champions League this season?

“I don’t want to make any excuses – as I said, we can make all the assessments at the end of the season, without making any excuses."

With Jordan Veretout suspended for the Sevilla game, what alternative options are you considering? Could Gianluca Mancini be moved in front of the defence?

“I’m thinking about the best solution. Bryan Cristante and Lorenzo Pellegrini are in the best position to come in and play against Sevilla [alongside Amadou Diawara]. Honestly I’m not really thinking about using Mancini as a midfielder. Cristante or Pellegrini will be the best options.”

So far, in percentage terms how much of the Fonseca style of play have we seen at Roma? What is the one thing you want to improve above all else?

“I am never satisfied. It has been a difficult season, but I think the team has really started to absorb my ideas about football. With a bit more continuity I think we will have a more consistent team next season.”

After undergoing surgery on his nose, do you think Lorenzo Pellegrini will be available to face Sevilla?

“Yes, I’m confident Pellegrini will be fit in time for the game against Sevilla.”

Would picking up results against Juventus and Sevilla, two strong sides, give Roma another boost heading into next season?

“Both games are important for keeping targets high and maintaining a winning mentality, and we’ll need those to show the spirit we have.”

Could tomorrow also be a chance for Daniel Fuzato to start?

“Yes, Fuzato will play tomorrow.”