Roma will host SK Slovan Bratislava. Ahead of the match, Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini spoke with Sky Sports, emphasizing the importance of securing a home win and discussing his fitness and young teammate Emanuele Lulli.
Pellegrini is well versed in Champions League football, and the upcoming fixture carries significant weight for Roma. In their opening two matches, Roma drew away at Fenerbahçe before suffering a home defeat to Real Madrid.
On the importance of the upcoming match, Pellegrini said: "We are gradually adapting to this season's new Champions League format—this is our first time in this competition structure. We know how crucial it is to win at home, as we very much want to be among the teams fighting for qualification. Tomorrow's match is undoubtedly vital. In our first two games, we drew with Fenerbahçe away and lost at home to Real Madrid, though I felt our performance in that match was excellent. We need to maintain that level of play while looking to change our results and secure victory."
You've returned to the team after six months. What changes have you observed, and how is your physical condition?
Pellegrini replied: "This is a positive moment because I feel my fitness improving every day. Coming back to this familiar group is excellent—we have a healthy, unified team. Everyone trains hard and prepares thoroughly for matches, which is what we must continue doing. Now we have an important match tomorrow, and we're very keen to win it."
You've always been willing to mentor other players, especially younger ones who look up to you. Emanuele Lulli is clearly one of them. What do you most appreciate about him, and what do you think he represents for Roma and Italian football?
Pellegrini stated: "I think one of Emanuele's greatest qualities is that he is a genuine, straightforward young man, always smiling. What he needs to do now is enjoy these moments, because he has earned them through hard work. When someone achieves something through effort, they should savor that experience. Of course, he must always remember there are many areas where he can continue to improve and develop. But he is clear-headed, humble, and kind, so I'm confident his future will be bright and he will become an important player for Roma and Italian football."
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