Pisilli ‘had been dreaming’ of Roma goal and plays with a smile | OneFootball

Niccolò Pisilli had been ‘dreaming’ of celebrating a Roma goal with the ultras in the Curva Sud and explains why he plays football with a smile on his face.

The product of the Giallorossi youth academy only turned 20 in September, but is increasingly becoming an integral part of the first team.

He came off the bench during this evening’s 4-1 victory over Lecce at the Stadio Olimpico and scored his second Serie A goal of the season.

It was an important return, as Pisilli had missed the 2-0 defeat to Atalanta through suspension.

“I followed the move from behind, Paulo gave a great pass to Saud, who laid it off well for me, so it was a great team move,” Pisilli told Sky Sport Italia.

He had been given his senior debut by Jose Mourinho, then impressed under Daniele De Rossi and Ivan Juric, while now Claudio Ranieri is impressed by his contributions.

“I try to give 100 per cent every time and that’s the main thing. Some people like me more than others, but the most important thing is to give my all.”

Pisilli a product of the Roma system

epa11763593 Niccolo Pisilli of Rome (L) scores during the Italian Serie A soccer match AS Roma vs US Lecce at the Olimpico stadium in Rome, Italy, 07 December 2024. EPA-EFE/ALESSANDRO DI MEO

The goal was scored right next to the Curva Sud, where the hardline Roma ultras are stood, and he rushed over to celebrate with them.

“I had been dreaming of that run to the Curva Sud for a long time and I will always remember it. That was wonderful.”

Pisilli comes from a sporting family, as his father was a tennis pro, while his mother is a psychologist, so do they help him deal with playing at this level?

“My mother gives me a lot of advice and I am really curious about her profession. I play with a smile because football is the best thing in the world and it’s a spontaneous reaction.”

Inevitably, Pisilli had a special thought for Roma-owned midfielder Edoardo Bove, who is in hospital after his collapse while playing for Fiorentina.

“This goal is all for him, I really hope things go well, because Edoardo is probably the most important friend I’ve made in the world of football so far. He really helped me to settle into the first team.

“I sent him a message, but it’s only right now that he and his family are given privacy. I dedicate the goal to him.”