Gasperini's words after Roma v Torino

Here are the words of the Giallorossi coach.

Did you go with the light front three, and did you get the answers you were looking for? Was Dybala’s substitution a tactical choice or due to a physical issue?

“No, Paulo had a small physical problem; he had to stop. It was a choice to go with three forwards; many players only joined us late in the week. The match was influenced by that avoidable goal — it made us lose the game. It’s clear that when you have to chase a result, energy starts to drop, especially in this kind of heat.” 

What is this Roma side missing in order to play with a higher intensity and more unpredictability?

“These matches are decided by small moments. Overall, we didn’t play a bad game, we created chances — but in my opinion, we need to speed things up. We lacked that spark, the ability to shoot, the final pass. When you play in these temperatures, you need to be careful, because your energy fades.” 

Is having someone like Dybala a challenge for you?

“Dybala did very well in the first half — he and Soulé were very active. He was a reference point in the center; too bad he had to stop. He can play anywhere on the pitch, as I’ve already said before. His absence weighs heavily on us — we hope it’s nothing serious.” 

How will you approach the derby week?

“Paradoxically, losing this match means we’ll need to raise our focus even more. It’ll be a week in which we’ll all be available, maybe for the first time. We’ll work hard to be at our best for that match.”