Totti discusses 'dream' career in magazine interview

Francesco Totti has reiterated that he is realising his dream in playing his entire career with the Giallorossi.

Totti, 39, is in his 25th and final season as a Giallorossi player - and, in an interview with the Guerin Sportivo, has reflected on his achievements and his hopes for his final campaign.

“I think it's hard for any youngster to imagine having such a long career," Totti said, "but I must admit that ever since I was a boy my dream was to spend my entire career at the only club I've ever loved.”

Lots of your contemporaries hung up their boots long ago. What is it that drives you on and makes you feel you've still got something to offer as a player?

“I think the secret to my success is the passion and the thrill I get from playing the game. It's never felt like a burden to me, even though I've had to make lots of sacrifices. I've always tried to go about my job with a smile and just enjoy myself on the pitch.”

How different are things at Trigoria now compared to when you first started out?

“Obviously things change over time. Everything evolves and football is much more than just what happens on the pitch. Our training ground has evolved to reflect the changes. You need modern facilities and coaching staff who are on the ball. Our club is making sure that's the case at Roma.”

This summer might have been your last pre-season. Did you find it harder than in the past?

“No, I just put everything I had into it, as I always have.”

Juventus, Napoli and Inter have strengthened. How do you see Roma?

“Juventus have won the last five league titles and have brought in reinforcements so obviously they start a notch ahead of the rest. But we're not going out there playing for second. We'll do everything we can to upset the odds and give our fans something to cheer about. And of course it's not just one team we have to beat; as you said, there are other clubs in the mix too.”

Will you be able to keep playing with the same enthusiasm and repeat the same performances as at the end of last season?

“Why else would I keep playing?”

How's your relationship with Spalletti?

“We have total respect for each other. I'm sure the coach can achieve great things with this team and obviously I'm here whenever he needs me. I hope we can have a great season together.”

What did James Pallotta say to you in Boston?

“The president has always been very nice to me whenever we've met. You don't need to speak the same language if there's a human feeling there.”

Are you thinking about your last game or do you prefer not to for now?

“Of course I'll have to think about it sooner or later but I don't want to just yet.”

What do you expect this season?

“I expect it will be an intense season and I expect it to be a battle for us. I hope the league will be closer than in the last few years.”

Which young Roma player has impressed you most?

“I don't want to single out just one player. We have lots of interesting youngsters in different positions. It's nice to think that we're U19 champions. I believe our young lads will improve alongside those of us who are more experienced.”

Which team do you feel could be the surprise package this year?

“I don't know if you can really call them a surprise anymore but I think Sassuolo – coached by my friend Di Francesco – could be something of a loose cannon.”