Roma CEO John Galantic described the club’s Champions League return as a fundamental moment and emphasized the Friedkin family’s financial and emotional commitment to the project.
Shortly before kickoff between Fenerbahçe and Roma, CEO John Galantic spoke to Sky Sport about the significance of the Giallorossi returning to the Champions League after seven years.
The match in Istanbul begins Roma’s first campaign in Europe’s most prestigious competition since 2018/19, with the occasion carrying additional importance ahead of the club’s centenary.
Galantic: “A Very Important Night”
Galantic explained what Champions League qualification means to every level of the club.
“Returning to the Champions League after seven years, during the centenary season, is fundamental. It is a very important night for the club, the owners and the supporters.”
Roma earned their place in the competition by finishing third in Serie A last season, completing a difficult journey back to Europe’s elite.
Balancing Investment With UEFA Restrictions
The CEO also discussed Roma’s summer transfer strategy and the challenge of building a competitive squad while remaining within UEFA’s financial parameters.
“Like many other clubs, we need to find a sporting and financial balance that allows us to field the most competitive team possible while respecting UEFA’s parameters. It is not easy.”
Galantic thanked the ownership for its investment and praised the senior players who agreed to new contracts, with some accepting reduced salaries to remain in the capital.
“I thank the ownership for its commitment and investment, but I also thank the important players who renewed. Some reduced their salaries to play Champions League football with Roma. I am talking about Dybala, Pellegrini, Cristante and Mancini. We are very happy that they stayed.”
He added that Roma were able to reduce their wage bill while simultaneously improving the squad’s quality.
Friedkins Emotionally Invested in Roma
Galantic finally revealed that the Friedkins were exchanging messages throughout the day ahead of Roma’s long-awaited Champions League return.
“There were many messages exchanged today, and there will also be messages during the game. They are excited and completely invested in this project. They may be quiet and have their own style, but they are genuinely very involved emotionally.”
Source: Sky Sport
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