Pellegrini praises Ghilardi’s performance in win vs Midtjylland: “He had a great match, he was ready.” | OneFootball

Lorenzo Pellegrini commented on Roma’s hard-fought 2-1 victory against Midtjylland in the Europa League, a crucial victory that restored balance in their home campaign in the competition.

Speaking to Sky Sport, the midfielder admitted the match was difficult: “They were a very physical and intense team, both in their duels and on the counterattacks. It was an important victory; we wanted to turn things around. We had lost two games at home and there was no better opportunity.”

When asked about his newfound form, Pellegrini gave ample credit to his current coach: “I think there’s a bit of everything. I don’t think it’s right to limit Gasperini to the physical aspect; I think there’s also more technique and tactics. He’s improved me a lot in terms of technique and tactics, too.”

The midfielder explained that, after the injury and the uncertainties, his only response was hard work: “This has been a demanding summer; it’s taught me a lot. Today I feel like a better person, ready to face any challenge.”

Regarding the attacking formation, the request for attacking midfielders remains unchanged, regardless of the type of center forward: “The request is always the same… We want to be able to play in the box, with the ball at our feet. We are 100% confident in what we’re doing.”

The sore point remains the finishing phase: “We’re working to improve. We’ve been saying since the beginning of the year that we can score more goals, but I feel I must emphasize the attitude of everyone within the group.”

Pellegrini then addressed the topic of Sunday’s big match against Napoli. Despite Roma being alone at the top of the table, the midfielder tempered his enthusiasm: “Talking about a ‘Scudetto challenge’ is premature in my opinion: it’s November, the season is long. We’re in that position because we deserve it, we started well and have improved a lot… There’s humility and awareness, it’s no coincidence that we’re at the top. Consistency is key, otherwise it will have been for nothing.”

Finally, on the captain’s armband: “It’s always a pleasure to wear the armband, but this is a lucky team. They don’t have just one point of reference, they have many… I’d like to focus on Ghilardi, he had a great match. I want to congratulate him, it’s difficult when you don’t play, but he was ready.”