Gasperini Hails Inter as Serie A’s Benchmark Ahead of Roma Test
Gian Piero Gasperini wants Roma to measure themselves directly against Inter Milan at the Stadio Olimpico, while accepting that the reigning Italian champions remain the standard for the rest of Serie A.
The Roma coach said Inter’s sustained domestic results, depth of squad and recent runs to European finals place them ahead of their rivals. But he believes his side have made encouraging progress and should approach the match with the intention of competing on level terms.
Quick facts
- Roma host Inter Milan at the Stadio Olimpico.
- Gasperini has lost each of his past 10 meetings with Inter.
- Manu Kone, Evan Ndicka and Wesley are available after minor fitness and illness issues.
- Lorenzo Pellegrini has returned to full training after a lengthy lay-off.
- Davide Massa will take charge of the match.
Gasperini, 68, cautioned against drawing early conclusions about the Scudetto race. He said a proper assessment of title credentials should wait until the league has reached 20 rounds.
His own record against Inter adds another layer to the occasion. Gasperini’s 10-match losing sequence has stretched across different Inter administrations, from Antonio Conte to Simone Inzaghi and now Cristian Chivu.
“Was Inter my kryptonite? There was a time when I got some results against them, but in the past few years we have always lost,” Gasperini said. “Perhaps there is a tactical reason, but the coaches changed from Conte to Inzaghi and Chivu and the outcome remained the same. They are a very strong side.”
Roma have received timely squad news before the fixture. Kone, Ndicka and Wesley have recovered from minor knocks and seasonal illnesses, while Pellegrini has completed full training during the last two weeks.
Gasperini expects the scale of the game to outweigh concerns over any remaining fatigue in his group. Roma are looking to protect their improved league standing while ending a winless run against the division’s leaders.
The coach also dismissed discussion around referee Massa, saying he expects the official to oversee the game without error.
On the right side, Gasperini has a selection decision to make, with young Lulli still in contention for a place in the starting side. Nahuel Molina and Wesley offer alternatives, with both right-footed wide players capable of working on either flank.
Roma’s use of the wide areas is likely to be central to their attempt to contain Inter’s transitions and prevent the champions from controlling the match from the flanks.
