AS Roma’s search for a new sporting director is becoming one of the defining stories behind the scenes at Trigoria, with the Friedkin ownership actively evaluating multiple profiles to lead the club into its next sporting cycle.
While Giovanni Manna remains one of the leading candidates, several other names continue to circulate internally, including Tony D’Amico, Cristiano Giuntoli, and, in a surprising development, former Roma sporting director Gianluca Petrachi.
Petrachi Emerges as Surprise Candidate
According to journalist Ilario Di Giovambattista, Roma are considering a sensational return for Petrachi, who previously worked for the club during the James Pallotta era before departing following internal tensions.
Petrachi’s profile is reportedly appreciated by head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, an important detail given the coach’s growing influence over Roma’s sporting structure and transfer planning.
The former Torino executive is still respected in Italian football for his recruitment work and his ability to build competitive squads under financial limitations, qualities Roma may value heavily ahead of another summer shaped by UEFA Financial Fair Play pressures.
However, this option is very unlikely given his less than harmonious exit from the capital club.
Manna Remains Roma’s Preferred Option
Despite Petrachi’s emergence, Manna continues to be viewed as one of the strongest candidates internally.
The current Napoli sporting director is highly appreciated both by the Friedkin ownership and by Gasperini himself, who reportedly pushed for Napoli to appoint Manna during previous discussions about potentially joining the club.
Roma have already initiated contacts with Manna, and reports suggest the Friedkins have even become directly involved in negotiations. However, the biggest obstacle remains Aurelio De Laurentiis, who reportedly wants around €10 million or perhaps even a player to release the executive from his Napoli contract.
No Direct Contact Yet With D’Amico
At the same time, Roma continue to monitor D’Amico, currently with Atalanta BC.
Although the executive has long been linked with a reunion with Gasperini following their successful spell together in Bergamo, reports from Angelo Mangiante suggest that no direct contact has yet taken place between Roma and D’Amico.
His contract situation with Atalanta could also complicate any potential move. He is also being linked with a move to AC Milan by Nicolo Schira today.
Giuntoli Still Included in the list
Meanwhile, Giuntoli remains part of Roma’s broader evaluation process.
The former Juventus FC executive is currently unattached, making him one of the easier profiles to pursue from a contractual standpoint. However, reports suggest he is no longer considered the clear favorite after initial discussions with the ownership.
Even so, his experience and reputation continue to keep him within the conversation. He is also said to be up for the job at Marseille.
Massara’s Future Appears Increasingly Uncertain
All signs continue to point toward the departure of current sporting director Ricky Massara.
The executive remains operational at Trigoria, but his relationship with Gasperini appears increasingly strained, and several reports suggest the club has already begun planning for a future without him.
As reported yesterday, Massara has also recently attracted interest from Olympique de Marseille, who are searching for a new sporting director following changes within their own executive structure.
Leave a Reply