From The Press Box: Matthew Santangelo

In the first of a new weekly series with members of the media, Italian football expert and State of Play podcast host Matthew Santangelo gives us his take on Roma along with some topical stories making the headlines this week...

What has been the biggest challenge for you as a journalist during the lockdown?

"The lack, or complete stoppage, of developing storylines. Football is usually non-stop. We can consume or watch it 24/7. Even when the club season comes to an end, there are international tournaments or the anticipation of the summer transfer window. In this time, it feels as though the plug has been pulled completely on the game and the lights are out."

What is your view on how Serie A should be completed?

"It is very hard to say. This question has sparked ongoing debate in the football community. Clubs like Roma, and Serie A, are right to take their advice from medical professionals and only resume when it is safe to do so.

"Serie A, its clubs and the Italian government must take a cautious approach. At the end of the day, for a country that has already been devastated by the virus and is trying to heal, we must prioritise what is most important – health."

What is your favourite Roma goal?

"Francesco Totti’s ‘cucchiaio’ ('spoon') goal against Inter at the San Siro in 2005. Carrying the ball from midfield and dusting off multiple Inter players en route to lobbing Julio Cesar with such impeccable technique epitomised all that Totti was as a player and showcased everything he had in his locker."

Who do you think is Roma's most promising young talent?

"Nicolo Zaniolo, hands down. While I also rate Lorenzo Pellegrini and believe he has a very bright future, Zaniolo is a brilliant prospect. To have introduced himself to the Roma faithful so quickly, and rapidly become one of the top young talents in football at such a young age, speaks volumes to his quality and high ceiling. I wish him a speedy recovery from his current injury because he is destined for great things for both Roma and Italy."

I wish Nicolo a speedy recovery from his current injury because he is destined for great things for both Roma and Italy.

- Matthew Santangelo

With 102 goals, Edin Dzeko is now Roma’s joint sixth all-time scorer. Why has he excelled at the Stadio Olimpico, scoring more goals than for any other club?

"Dzeko has been a personal favourite of mine for many years, dating back to his time at Wolfsburg. His resume and versatile skillset show a striker who is far more than just a traditional No. 9. He has size, strength and an unerring hunger to sniff out goals. But he does a lot more than just score. He is intelligent with a football IQ that allows him to do many things that help Roma win games."

Tell us about the Roma fans in New York?

"The calcio community is massive in New York and, in many ways, still underground. When it comes to supporter groups here, you won’t find many as passionate and unified as what Roma have built. The fans come out in numbers and create an atmosphere that makes us proud to be calcio diehards in New York.

" Roma Club New York has also been actively fundraising, alongside other American supporters' clubs, in order to help those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic."

Last week was the anniversary of our Champions League comeback win over Barcelona. What are your memories from that game in April 2018?

"For me, it was the standout Roma moment of recent times. Not only was it a massive victory for Roma, their fans and the city, but something all Italian football fans could enjoy. The dramatic manner in which the tie was turned around was astonishing and to knock out a team of Barcelona's calibre, and in those circumstances, was a win for Serie A, too."

What makes covering Roma unique?

"I think it is their cutting-edge social media strategy, which gives the club a clear personality. Roma has been at the forefront of delivering compelling digital content and it has changed the way a lot of other clubs now cover the game.

"In many ways, Roma are pioneers and this also means the club are prepared to engage with journalists like me and try new things. It is nice to know you can work with a creative club open to your ideas. Plus, fans also know Roma will do justice to the most thrilling moments on the pitch."

What is your proudest moment in journalism?

"Probably just the journey. I didn't study journalism at university and began writing later than most in this profession. I knew I had to work harder to establish myself and earn the opportunities I have been given. From penning a piece on Totti which appeared on Roma’s site to attending matches as a media member with some of the most accomplished names in the industry, it is difficult to pick just one moment.

"I enjoy my job every day and have learned to remain humble, always hustle and appreciate those who have helped me along the way."

Do you think the lockdown will change the way you work once lifted?

"Not signifcantly, although it has taught us all how to adapt and come up with different story ideas. I will say this though, I think readers are getting sick of 'clickbait' sports stories during this period. I believe maintaining journalistic integrity during the lockdown will make members of the media a lot tighter with clubs, players and fans."

Matthew Santangelo is a New Jersey-based Italian football expert who hosts the State of Play podcast. You can follow him on Twitter here.