Leonardo Balerdi credited Gian Piero Gasperini’s attacking freedom after scoring his first career brace in Roma’s dramatic 3–3 draw at Napoli.
The Argentine defender twice brought the Giallorossi level at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, making a decisive contribution to a comeback that earned Roma a hard-fought point.
Speaking to DAZN afterwards, Balerdi explained how the coach’s approach and the welcome he has received from his teammates have helped him settle.
“We Wanted to Win”
Asked whether he had expected to become the protagonist with two goals, Balerdi pointed to the example set by fellow defenders Gianluca Mancini and Mario Hermoso.
“It’s my first brace. I saw from Mancio and Mario that you can attack under this coach, and I’m doing it too. Gasperini gives me the freedom to get forward towards goal. We wanted to win, but we’re taking a point home.”
His goals proved essential: after Soulé reduced the deficit, Balerdi made it 2–2 before responding again when Napoli regained the lead through Scott McTominay.
“It Feels Like I’ve Been Here for Years”
Balerdi also spoke warmly about his integration into the Roma dressing room, saying the support around him has translated into confidence on the pitch.
“I feel great. I’ve said it from the first day: they welcomed me incredibly well. Thanks to them, I feel like I’ve been here for two or three years. That gives me the strength to play the way I am.”
It was a memorable evening for the defender, whose willingness to push forward gave Roma an unexpected source of goals when they needed them most.
Source: DAZN
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