Balbo: Spalletti has restored Roma’s confidence

The Argentine, who scored 78 goals for Roma between 1993 and 1998, also lauded Spalletti’s tactical nous and knack for managing a squad from a psychological point of view.

“Spalletti has restored Roma’s confidence,” Balbo told Roma Radio on Tuesday. “He’s a very able coach who’s really familiar with the club and knows how to use and speak to each individual player.”

How important is the fact that Roma seem to be getting their confidence back under Spalletti?

“Very much so. A team with confidence can achieve anything – it gives you belief in your ability and creates unity on the field. If you have those elements then it’s much easier to prepare for matches.”

What do you think of the job Spalletti’s doing?

“As I said he’s a very experienced coach and right from his appointment I had no doubt that he was going to be a success. As well as knowing the club inside out, he’s brought order and conviction to the team, using individual players in just the right way. On top of that, he’s been able to draw on two great January signings in Stephan El Shaarawy and Diego Perotti.”

How do you rate your compatriot Perotti?

“He’s a technically gifted player and he’s quick so he can beat a man easily. Plus he’s got lots of personality. All in all he’s a player that can make the difference. I really think he’s a fantastic signing for Roma.”

Edin Dzeko recently had a tough period in which he struggled to find the net – did that ever happen to you in your career?

“Of course. All strikers have bad spells when they miss easy chances. I remember once dribbling round the goalie only to miss an open goal. It happens. The job of every striker is to score goals so if you don’t you can overthink it and that ends up causing you even more problems. For Roma, having a forward like him, who’s capable of scoring 15 goals a season, is absolutely crucial.”

Roma are third now, but can they aim even higher?

“Yes, I think that if Roma keep playing like they have been then they can fight for second too. They’ve won six games in a row, a positive run that’s filled them with self-confidence, as I said earlier. Spalletti’s men will be more relaxed and determined going into games now so they’ll be better placed to perform well. In my view anything’s possible, especially given the strength of their squad.”