The former striker explained how Gian Piero Gasperini challenges talented players and urged Roma’s new number 86 to embrace the coach’s demands.
Rodrigo Mora has arrived in the Italian capital determined to make an immediate impression at Roma.
The Portuguese talent has only a few training sessions to convince Gian Piero Gasperini that he is ready to start Monday’s Serie A opener against Fiorentina, which could also mark his debut in front of the Stadio Olimpico crowd.
As anticipation builds around the new signing, former Brazilian striker Jeda has offered Mora advice based on his own experience of working under Gasperini at Crotone during the 2005/06 season.
“Gasperini does not pamper talent”
“When I read that Rodrigo Mora had arrived at Gasperini’s Roma, I smiled,” Jeda said. “My boy, get ready.
“When Gasperini sees talent, he does not pamper it. He puts it to the test. He asks you to run harder, fight harder and make more sacrifices.
“When you think you have given him everything, he still manages to find something else to get out of you. I experienced that firsthand.”
Jeda’s career-best season under Gasperini
Jeda made 42 appearances and scored 15 goals during his season working with Gasperini at Crotone, recording the most prolific campaign of his career.
“At Crotone, I played 42 matches—all of them,” he explained. “I scored 15 goals, my personal best in a season.
“Gasperini respected me from the first day, but that respect never became a discount. He continually pushed me beyond the limits I thought I had.
“Today, I can say it with gratitude: a significant part of that season also bears his signature.”
His advice for Mora
Jeda then addressed the challenge awaiting Mora as he begins his career in one of Italy’s most demanding football environments.
“Rodrigo is 19 years old, has quality and personality and has already made 80 appearances for Porto’s first team.
“Now, however, he is joining Roma—a city that loves you deeply, demands a great deal and makes every emotion count twice as much.”
The former striker urged Mora to ignore the early praise and concentrate on satisfying Gasperini’s expectations.
“The advice I would give him is simple: do not rely on compliments. Work. Listen. Do not be afraid when Gasperini asks for even more.
“Always show your face, particularly when things are not going well.
“Gasperini cannot score goals for you, but he can help you discover what kind of player you truly are.”
“Hunger will decide how far you go”
Jeda concluded with a direct message to Mora before asking Roma supporters to remain patient with the young attacker.
“The rest depends on you, Rodrigo. Talent opened the door for you. Hunger will decide how far you can go.
“Romanisti, are you ready to support him and also grant him the right to make mistakes?”
Source: SiamoLaRoma
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