Pellegrini's first interview: 'I couldn't wait to come back'

After two years away, Lorenzo Pellegrini is a Roma player once again.

The 21-year-old signed a contract with his boyhood club on Friday afternoon, completing his return to the Giallorossi after two years with Sassuolo.

We spoke to the central midfielder following the completion of all the formalities, to find out more about his emotions following his return to familiar surroundings - and his hopes for the future in his new (old) colours...

As a local lad, how exciting is it to be back?

Pellegrini: “It feels amazing. I grew up here in Trigoria so to come back as a professional player is what every kid who trains here dreams of. That said, it’s time to put sentiment to one side and give everything for this club. I hope and I’m sure that I won’t disappoint the club or the fans.”

How would you rate your two seasons at Sassuolo?

“They were positive. It was a constant learning curve and I found it tough to get playing time at the start, but the club, the coach and all the staff helped me and kept me relaxed. I met some really genuine people and they helped me become a man. Sassuolo will always have a place in my heart.”

What is Eusebio Di Francesco like as a coach?

“He’s very clear in his ideas and he always tries to be true to himself. He gave me a chance to play over the past two years and taught me never to rest on my laurels and to always try to do more. That’s vital for any player or coach.”

How have you enjoyed playing with the Italy Under-21 team?

“The U21s are like a family to me, more than just a team. I’ve been called up regularly for the past year and a half. I have a special bond with my team-mates there so it would have been even sweeter had we managed to win. We’re disappointed to have been knocked out, but I think we probably came up against the best team [Spain] in the competition.”

When you were younger you played as a striker, but you’ve also played in every position in midfield. Which is your preferred position?

“As a kid I liked being a striker, because I was taller than everyone else and scored a lot of goals. I really like the central midfield position – that’s my position and I love it. You’re always in the thick of the action and you see a lot of the ball. I like playing a bit further forward.”

Where can you improve as a player?

“Across the board. I’ve always been taught never to rest on my laurels. I’m going to be playing with top players with much more experience than me this year so I’ll try to take everything I can from them. I want to become a more complete player that’s ready for anything. You never stop improving, not even when you get to 30 – just look at the top Italian footballers.”

Are you inspired by any player in particular?

“I’ve always been a big fan of Daniele De Rossi. He’s always been someone I’ve looked up to, not so much from a footballing point of view but as a person.

"In terms of football I’m always trying to get better, without focusing on any one player.”

Finally, do you have a message for the Roma fans?

“I’m back and I couldn’t wait to have it done. Now that I’m here, let’s try and have a great season and keep improving, me especially. I’m sure we’ll have plenty to celebrate.”