Di Francesco: Juventus are an example but we want to make our own way

The two sides meet on Saturday with both firmly in the hunt at the top of Serie A, with each manager knowing a victory would be a significant statement even at this stage of the campaign.

Roma are yet to pick up even a point at the Allianz Stadium since it was built, something Di Francesco hopes to change.

“We’ll prepare for it knowing it’s a massive game," Di Francesco said. "I won’t say its decisive but it’s hugely significant from a mental and psychological standpoint.

"The team has to look for a positive result at all costs and at a tough ground in every respect. But we cannot alter the identity this Roma side has had up until now.”

In the build-up to the contest, much has been made in the newspapers of the ex-Roma players who will turn out for Juventus on Saturday, including Miralem Pjanic, Medhi Benatia and Wojciech Szczesny.

Di Francesco was asked about the difference in mentality between the two clubs.

“What influences the thinking of players is not of interest – when I chose to come to Rome as a player I created a special bond with the people that were here," Di Francesco said. "I can say that I also had the chance to go and play for Juventus but chose Roma.

"Juventus are a huge club but for me it would be wonderful to achieve something with Roma. I’m not interested in what other people think – I’ll just focus on my own thoughts. I’d like to change people’s mentality, of making premature judgements, and to improve the environment we have here – it’s something that can easily be blamed for shortcomings.

"We have to improve a great deal. Juventus should be an example of how to become a great club but it’s so great to do that here, where the sun shines and we have wonderful supporters.”