Roma has parted ways with coach Daniele De Rossi, a club icon and World Cup winner with Italy, after a dismal start to the season. De Rossi’s departure comes just eight months into his tenure, following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in January. The decision was made “in the best interests of the team” to get back on track early in the season, Roma stated. De Rossi’s contract, signed in June, was set to run until 2027.
Roma’s poor performance has left them languishing near the relegation zone, with only three points from four matches. The final straw was Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Genoa, where Roma conceded a late equalizer, denying them their first win of the campaign. De Rossi’s dismissal marks a shocking end to his managerial stint at his boyhood club, where he was revered as a local hero and passionate player.
De Rossi’s brief managerial experience, including a stint at lower league outfit SPAL, didn’t deter Roma from appointing him. Initially, he revitalized the team, leading them to the Europa League semi-finals. However, Roma’s form declined toward the end of last season, missing out on Champions League qualification. This season’s poor start sealed De Rossi’s fate. Italian media report Ivan Juric and Massimiliano Allegri as potential replacements.
De Rossi’s legacy as a player remains untouched, with two Italian Cups and the 2007 Italian Super Cup to his name. Roma fans adored his passionate style, and he will always be remembered as a local boy done good. Roma now faces Udinese on Sunday and Athletic Bilbao in their Europa League opener next week, with a new coach likely to be appointed soon. The club will seek to bounce back from their poor start and restore their competitive edge in Serie A.
