Ahead of their upcoming Europa League encounter, AS Roma coach Daniele De Rossi spoke highly of his opponent, Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi, calling him a “genius.”
The draw paired Roma against Brighton in the Round of 16, setting the stage for an “Italian derby” between the two managers who are also close friends.
De Rossi, speaking at a pre-match press conference before Roma’s Serie A fixture against Torino, discussed his relationship with De Zerbi and acknowledged the challenge Brighton poses: “I didn’t want Brighton [in the draw],” he admitted. “They have hurt many top sides in England. It will be a difficult game to prepare for.”
However, De Rossi went on to express great respect and admiration for De Zerbi: “He was like an open book to me,” he said, referring to De Zerbi’s assistance and advice during his own coaching journey. “He helped me, made his books and data available for me.”
De Rossi further revealed a personal connection between the two families: “Our daughters are friends. They meet at Roma Clubs in London to watch matches.” He added jokingly, “I imagine his daughter won’t have a Roma scarf when we meet.”
Beyond the personal connection, De Rossi emphasized his professional respect for De Zerbi’s innovative tactics: “This thing has united us even more,” he said, referring to their upcoming clash. “I think he [De Zerbi] is a genius. Like him or not, he’s brought something new; whoever does it is a genius coach. You can’t copy a genius, but I think he has changed something, so many want to imitate him.”
The two coaches share a past interaction, having travelled together to England for dinner with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in 2022, just weeks before De Zerbi’s appointment as Brighton boss.
De Rossi himself was appointed to manage Roma in January of this year, replacing José Mourinho. He has been successful in his short tenure, winning five matches at the Stadio Olimpico with one draw and one loss. His contract with the Giallorossi runs through June 2024.