Roma World No.6: Saudi Arabia

Where did you grow up?

“I was born and raised in Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

Why did you choose Roma?

“The heart wants what the heart wants. When Gabriel Omar Batistuta joined the club, the Argentinian became a role model for me.”

What is your first memory of Roma?

“There are many memories but the first memory was when I watched the team playing at the Olimpico Stadium for the first time. It was a remarkable experience to watch the team and Curva Sud for the first time - even though I was behind a TV screen, it was almost an indescribable feeling.”

Who was your first Roma hero and why?

“As I mentioned earlier, Gabriel Omar Batistuta has been my hero since my childhood. I used to follow him when he was in the Argentinian national team and then at Fiorentina. I wasn’t really interested in following the club as much as the player himself. His move to Roma was something magical - he took my heart with him - and there, I found passion. Why is he my first hero? Because he’s Gabriel Batistuta.”

Who has been your favourite Roma manager and why?

“The managers who worked with Roma have definitely left their great marks. The first era of coach Luciano Spalletti though was beautiful and unforgettable. Roma was performing wonderfully and on a high level. But, personally, the best coach for me was the great Fabio Capello - one of the geniuses in the world of football coaching.”

What has been your lowest point supporting Roma?

“There hasn’t really been a low point for me in supporting Roma. I watch all the matches eagerly. Roma has become my private and professional world. My mission in managing our virtual Arabic world in supporting the team makes me stand up for them despite any circumstances. When some fans stes away from the support, you always find me in the first row encouraging their spirit. That’s my job and passion.”

Have you been to a Roma match and if so, what was your memory of your first game?

“Yes, I’ve attended many matches over the years. The first one I went to was at the Olimpico Stadium. It was like a dream watching the players up close - an amazing feeling. To feel the warmth of the Curva Sud is an incredible and magical experience.”

Where were you when Roma last won the Scudetto?

“I was in my city, watching the game with my friends. They knew how much I love Gabriel and I was almost the only one who was cheering for Roma, for Francesco Totti, Montella and the rest of the team at that time. I remember each and every moment of that big match - all the players were marvelous in that victory, especially Batistuta in that match against Parma. In that day, the wolves owned my heart.”

Do Roma have a passionate fan base in the city you live in?

“Absolutely, we have a large fan base in my city with a larger passion and we attend many matches together under Arab World Roma Club. Since my journey started with the wolves, I had a great passion and motivation to let people know who Roma is, especially in the Arab world. And because I entered the worldwide web early at that time, I made a promise to myself to be a supporter with all my strength. So I started our virtual world of Roma 4 Ever and Arab World Roma Club in 2001. It has been one of many reasons the club have increased the fan base in the Arab world.”

Which team do you most enjoy seeing Roma beat?

“Without a doubt, I enjoy winning the derby against Lazio. A victory in the derby has a unique and amazing taste - especially when Totti scores. A Totti goal increases the impact of the defeat on Lazio fans. Also, a victory against Juventus has a special feeling to it!”

What makes Roma special to you?

“Everything to be honest - starting from the eternal city of Rome, the streets, the people, the club and the great passion we have for it. I have enjoyed unforgettable memories with Roma - my passion is with Roma only. And as I always say, Roma has become a lifestyle.”

What does Totti mean to you?

“I’m going to need a hundred books to give you the right answer. Totti is the inspiration, the phenomenon and the human being. Everything about Francesco is charming and attractive - a remarkable talent and a legend that won’t be repeated. His loyalty to the club, despite all the circumstances, must be taught to kids at school. His humility with everyone is a distinctive thing; he’s the king and the leader on and off the pitch. We can’t imagine the team without him even though that day is definitely coming. Francesco Totti - thank you for everything.”

Who is your favourite current player and why?

“I have many favourites but if I have to pick just one, I’ll pick the Bosnian Miralem Pjanic - a stylish player with a great talent. I like him a lot and I hope he gets to have a long career with the club.”

If you could meet anyone connected to Roma - past or present - who would it be and why?

“Francesco Totti, without a doubt. A living legend. Just to stand next to him and meet him in person would make me so proud.”

What makes you most proud to be a Roma supporter?

“I’m proud to be the founder and president of Arab World Roma Club, which is officially associated with the AIRC in Rome. I’m proud to have many dear Romanista friends in Italy and all over the world.”

Finally, what would be your perfect day as a Roma fan?

“When Roma plays, life stops for me and all my feelings go with the wolves. And whether we win or lose, I’m always happy to see the colours. It is my life. Forza Roma!”