On the same day of announcing Jose Mourinho’s departure, AS Roma have confirmed who will succeed the Portuguese as their next manager.
AS Roma have named former captain Daniele De Rossi as their new head coach on a six-month deal.
De Rossi takes over from Jose Mourinho, who got the boot on Tuesday. The 40-year-old has signed a contract until June 30, 2024. The deal reportedly includes an option to extend for an unspecified period.
In a statement, the Friedkin family, owners of Roma, expressed joy with this appointment. They outlined De Rossi’s “unbreakable bond” with the club, his leadership, ambition, and enthusiasm as key reasons for choosing him.
‘Everyone knows what Roma means to me’
Speaking to the club’s website after his appointment, Rossi said: “I would like to thank the Friedkin family for entrusting me with the responsibility of Roma’s head coach role.
“From my side, I know no other way but dedication, daily sacrifices, and giving everything I have in order to face the challenges that await us from now until the end of the season.
“The excitement of being able to sit on our bench is indescribable. Everyone knows what Roma means to me. However, the work that awaits us all has already taken precedence.
“We have no time or choice but to be competitive, fight for our goals, and try to achieve them, which are the only priorities my staff and I have set for ourselves.”
How did De Rossi do as a player for Roma?
This appointment marks De Rossi’s return to Roma, over four years after his departure. The former midfielder spent 18 years playing for his hometown team. He made 616 appearances and won two Coppa Italia titles and the Supercoppa Italiana.
After retiring, De Rossi joined Italy’s coaching staff and later became the head coach of SPAL. Now, he steps into a new role with AS Roma, eager to lead the team to success.
His first game as the head coach will be on Saturday against Verona at the Stadio Olimpico.
L’AS Roma è lieta di annunciare che Daniele De Rossi è stato nominato nuovo Responsabile Tecnico della Prima Squadra fino al 30 giugno 2024.
Bentornato a casa, Daniele! 💛❤️
📄 https://t.co/S5B8jUnZ4K#ASRoma pic.twitter.com/tDGZbWqDwM
— AS Roma (@OfficialASRoma) January 16, 2024