Ranieri: “We must not surrender to difficulties”

Roma suffered another setback, losing 0-2 to Atalanta in their latest Serie A encounter. This marks their sixth defeat in the last seven matches, leaving Claudio Ranieri’s side precariously close to the relegation zone with only a two-point cushion.

Despite the disappointing result, Ranieri remained optimistic about his team’s performance and future prospects. In his post-match interview, the veteran manager praised his players’ efforts and resilience.

“As long as we had the strength, we responded blow for blow,” Ranieri stated. He acknowledged that Atalanta’s ability to make appropriate substitutions gave them an advantage, while Roma’s options were limited due to a lack of available midfielders.

Ranieri highlighted a crucial missed opportunity that could have changed the course of the game. “We had the right chance to take the lead, it’s a pity that Dovbyk couldn’t score,” he remarked. The manager also recognized Atalanta’s quality, stating, “We must know that Atalanta can now fight for the Scudetto.”

Looking ahead to a congested fixture list, Ranieri emphasized the challenges that lie ahead. “I congratulated the team for how they fought. I told them that we’re entering a period where we play every four days, and there are no easy matches.”

Despite the current struggles, Ranieri remains confident in his team’s ability to turn things around. “If the team continues to follow me as they are doing, we will find the key to solving this situation,” he asserted. The manager stressed the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, stating, “We must not surrender to difficulties. I don’t like players who want to give up. We must know how to react and fight for every ball until we’re exhausted.”