Gasperini Acknowledges Inter as Serie A Benchmark Amid Roma's Positivity
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed optimism about his team's current form, highlighting the 'positive energy' that has been evident as they prepare for their upcoming clash against Inter Milan. Both teams have started the Serie A season strongly, each securing four consecutive victories and sitting atop the league table with 12 points.
In a press conference ahead of the match, Gasperini emphasized the importance of enthusiasm and desire, stating, "Enthusiasm and desire are positive energy." He acknowledged that while the team is in good spirits, they must remain focused on their performance and not dwell on potential setbacks. "Let’s think about the match, the wait, our environment. I think these are the good games to play," he added.
Despite his team's strong start, Gasperini was quick to recognize Inter as the standard-bearer in Serie A. "I believe Inter are the benchmark team in the league. They are a team that, over time, have been doing extraordinary things. And not just in Italy," he remarked. Inter, the defending champions, have consistently demonstrated their quality, having also clinched the Coppa Italia in the 2025-26 season.
Gasperini noted, "They have something more than everyone else. The results speak for themselves, and they are remarkable." This acknowledgment of Inter's dominance reflects a level of respect that Gasperini has for their achievements, which he believes should motivate Roma to elevate their own game. He stated, "We should focus on ourselves, not the others. I’m satisfied with what we’re doing, and we’re trying to establish ourselves in an increasingly higher tier of the league."
The Roma coach also discussed the mental preparation required for such high-stakes matches, asserting that clarity is essential. He mentioned the challenges of Serie A, noting that difficulties are a normal part of the competition. "It would be too nice to always win and win easily," he quipped, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football.
Historically, Gasperini has faced challenges against Inter, having lost 22 of his 36 encounters with them, which includes nine draws and just five victories. He reflected on this record, saying, "There was a period when I often got results with Inter; in recent years, it hasn’t been like that." He acknowledged the changing dynamics in coaching and tactics, mentioning the various coaches he has faced at Inter, including Conte and Inzaghi.
When the Noise Dies Down
Looking ahead to the match, Gasperini is optimistic about his squad's fitness, stating that all players are available for selection. "It’s extraordinary because it rarely happens. Then clearly, someone is better off, and someone is worse off; there have also been some flu, some knocks, some slight sprains," he explained. He also noted that Lorenzo Pellegrini has been training consistently, which bodes well for Roma's attacking options.
As the Giallorossi prepare to face Inter, they not only boast the league's top scorer in Donyell Malen but also the best defensive record, having conceded only once so far this season. Gasperini concluded, "The teams that are at the top of the table are the ones with the best attack and the best defence; otherwise, you’re not there." This match promises to be a significant test for Roma as they seek to assert themselves against the established giants of Serie A.
