Szczesny: Two-horse title race between Roma and Juventus

The Giallorossi keeper officially returned to the club on 4 August and - although wary of the threat posed by Juventus - hopes Roma can sustain a challenge for the Scudetto.

"I believe Serie A will be a two-horse race between Juve and Roma," said the Poland international in an interview with Sky Sport Italia. "On the one hand, you have to acknowledge that Juve have dominated but your self-belief and passion simply won't accept that. We have to turn things around. I've been impressed by Roma, usually there's a lot of fatigue at this stage but that's not the case for us. Therefore I hope the team can have a good season."

Where is the team stronger compared with last year?

"I'm sure we'll see big improvements and that's not purely based on the signings we've made. We'll have a full season with [Luciano] Spalletti who can focus on all the important details right from the outset."

The Champions League play-offs are just around the corner. How are Roma shaping up for such a big tie against FC Porto?

"We're aware of what an important match it is, the Portugal leg will be one of the most crucial games of the season. A club like Roma have to be in the Champions League. We need to get the campaign off to a good start."

Turning to you, what made you stay at Roma?

"I enjoyed my time here last season, it was a positive year. It could have gone even better but overall it went well and I'm pleased the club wanted me back. I'm happy to be here."

Alisson has come in, how does that affect the hierarchy? Will you continue to be number one?

"I'll work as hard as I can to make sure nothing changes from last season but I've already seen that Alisson is a top keeper. While Morgan took me under his wing last term, I hope to do likewise with Alisson this season. Either way, the Brazilian is a great signing for the club."

You joined up a bit later for pre-season. Would you feel ready to play against Porto?

"That's not for me to decide, I'm not 100% but I could be ready. Ultimately that's the coach's call."

You played behind Thomas Vermaelen at Arsenal. What will he bring?

"I really rate Vermaelen, he's a leader, he dominates the defence and he's just what we needed. Once he gets to grips with the language, he'll do really well."

You made your debut aged 20 in England. Is this set to be the best ever Premier League season?

"I don't know if it'll be the best ever but certainly the most interesting with the coaches too. I think five or six teams all start fairly evenly matched."