Massara: ‘Roma definitive decisions on new contracts, Totti and what is best for club’
Roma director Ricky Massara admits it is time for ‘definitive’ decisions on new contracts for Paulo Dybala and others, while Francesco Totti is again present. ‘We want what is best for Roma.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
New signing Bryan Zaragoza is on the bench ready for his debut, but Paulo Dybala, Robinio Vaz, Mario Hermoso, Manu Koné, Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson and Stephan El Shaarawy are out of action.
Gianluca Mancini had surgery last week for a broken nose, so he is able to play with a protective mask this evening.
Roma looking to future beyond this season
“Zaragoza was an opportunity that presented itself at the end of the transfer market, a strong player who has the characteristics that we were specifically lacking in our attack,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.
There are reports that Dybala and Pellegrino will need to take pay cuts if they are to be given new contracts at the Stadio Olimpico, while Zeki Celik and El Shaarawy are also only tied to the club until June 30.
“This is the moment to make some definitive reflections,” confessed the Roma director.
“We have always had a good rapport with the agents of these players, so we need to sit down around a table and understand if there is the possibility of an agreement.
“All the players whose contracts are running down have never lacked in their commitment and professionalism.”
Director Claudio Ranieri suggested last week that the Friedkin family are thinking about bringing club icon Totti into the fold, so is it a coincidence that the former captain is in the stands again this evening?
“Totti is the history of this club,” replied Massara.
“He has a very good rapport with the Friedkins, and this kind of evaluation is entirely down to the club, whose objective is to do what is best for Roma.
“They will know if and when it is opportune to start working together.”
This is a big opportunity for the Giallorossi to climb back into joint fourth place with Juventus, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Lazio last night.
It won’t be easy, as Cagliari are on a run of three consecutive victories against Juve, Fiorentina and Hellas Verona, also beating Roma 1-0 back on December 7 when Zeki Celik was sent off.