Rhythm key for Fazio as Roma prepare to face in-form Atalanta

The Giallorossi go into the match after a 1-0 win over Torino on the opening weekend – although Atalanta trumped that with a 4-0 win over Frosinone. And Fazio knows that the Giallorossi still need to step up their game considerably.

“The whole team did well against Torino: as we always say, the first defender is the striker,” Fazio noted. “Defence needs to be our strength, if we are going to do well in every competition. We have started well but we need to continue to work hard, in attack and defence.

“It’s the start of a new season, exciting for every Roma fan. This will be the first game at the Olimpico, with all the fans hoping to see a new-look side at the stadium. It will be a great game to play in.”

Atalanta go into the game with confidence and fitness, having already played a number of competitive games this season – including a goalless draw against FC Copenhagen on Thursday.

“You can see that Atalanta are in a good moment, they have played a few competitive games in the Europa League qualifiers which have given them a bit of rhythm,” he added. “We saw the game on Thursday against Copenhagen and they play like a Gasperini side; strong physically and pressing well.

“I know Papu Gomez well, we have played together for the national team. He’s a great guy as well as a great player. He’s found his perfect place in Bergamo, and you can see that on the pitch.”

Last season Roma were not at their best at home, something everyone is hoping to change this time around.

“We need to improve at home,” Fazio acknowledged. “We are working hard every day; we are a big squad and all the new arrivals are learning what the boss wants.

“We are improving and want to play well. We need to learn game by game, improving together and finding that rhythm. We have the advantage of already knowing what the coach wants from his players; because of this we can do better than last season.”