El Shaarawy on Roma’s ambitions: “We want Top 4, I feel a great affection for this club.” | OneFootball

Stephan El Shaarawy spoke to the official Serie A channels.

The attacker had some positive things to say about his relationship with Roma: “It’s definitely the club I’ve been at the longest. I’ve always said I felt comfortable there from day one. There have been ups and downs, as with everything, but I’ve always worked for myself and for the good of the team.”

“The city welcomed me twice, in a big way,” he said, recalling his time with the Giallorossi.

“I feel a great deal of affection from the city and the fans. When you look back, you might say you can always do better, but I’m satisfied with the path I’ve taken. It’s been a positive journey for me, and I’m happy about that.”

El Shaarawy has captained Roma on numerous occasions: “It’s a feeling of gratification and satisfaction. Wearing the Roma captain’s armband is a source of pride and a privilege. It’s a very special armband, especially for me, having lived through the Totti and De Rossi eras. I’ve been here a long time and I feel this responsibility.”

He then had some sweet words for Gasperini: “He’s a very demanding coach, a great master of football. He pushes you to the limit, and beyond. You can see his work in training throughout the season and in matches, in the second halves. He demands a lot of intensity and aggression, but we’re following him. We’ve started the season well, we’re on the right path.”

El Shaarawy also focused on the attack: “When a team has so many great players, it motivates each other. Roma is a team that must aim for important objectives, and we also know that the coach focuses a lot, especially up front. We’ll always have to be ready, whether I start or come off the bench.”

Finally, on his seasonal goals: “The team’s goal is to qualify for the Champions League, because Roma haven’t played in the Champions League for a long time. Then try to get as far as possible in the Europa League. And obviously also in the Coppa Italia. Personally, however, the goal is to try to play consistently, try to help the team, and do my best.”