AS Roma are in crisis mode, as Croatian manager Ivan Juric has been sacked after a short and turbulent spell in charge, leaving the club searching for their third manager this season. Juric, who replaced Roma icon Daniele De Rossi in September, managed only 12 games with a mixed record of four wins, five losses, and three draws. The team sits mid-table in Serie A and is just above the elimination zone in the UEFA Europa League, far below expectations for a club of their stature.
With Roma’s ownership, The Friedkin Group, beginning the search for yet another head coach, the Italian giants face a critical juncture in their season. Here’s an in-depth look at the circumstances that led to Juric’s dismissal, Roma’s managerial struggles, and potential candidates who could steer the club back on course.
Roma’s Season of Managerial Upheaval
The 2024/25 season has been challenging for Roma, marked by instability and a lack of cohesion on and off the pitch. The club has cycled through two managers already, a situation that began in January when former Manchester United and Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho left the club. His exit set off a chain of events that has left Roma searching for answers as they struggle to establish a sense of direction.
Daniele De Rossi, a Roma legend and former player, stepped in to take Mourinho’s place, but his tenure lasted only until September. While De Rossi brought passion and knowledge of the club, his lack of experience in management ultimately proved costly. The team’s struggles persisted, leading to the hiring of Juric, who had previously enjoyed success with Torino but couldn’t replicate that with Roma. His brief spell ended after a disappointing loss to Bologna, leaving the team’s hopes for a strong Serie A finish in question.
Ivan Juric’s Tenure: Promises Unfulfilled
Juric’s time with Roma was brief but turbulent. The Croatian manager arrived with high expectations, aiming to implement a high-pressing, aggressive style of play, yet he struggled to get the best out of Roma’s roster. Despite moments of brilliance, such as the 3-0 win against Spezia, the team lacked consistency and cohesion, leading to mixed results. Under Juric, Roma’s defense remained vulnerable, and the offense failed to find rhythm, leading to a string of disappointing performances.
Club statement
https://t.co/1C8aKd3j8z#ASRoma pic.twitter.com/nhbOmNwCHu
— AS Roma English (@ASRomaEN) November 10, 2024
Roma’s 3-2 defeat to Bologna at home turned out to be the final straw. Not only did this loss keep the team stuck in mid-table obscurity, but it also underscored their defensive frailties, as they allowed three goals in a game they were favored to win. Juric’s inability to rectify these issues ultimately led to his dismissal. In a club statement, Roma’s owners acknowledged his hard work but recognized that the team required a fresh approach to salvage their season.
The Friedkin Group’s Vision and Pressure to Succeed
The Friedkin Group, which has owned Roma since 2020, is determined to see the club compete at the top of Italian and European football. Their vision includes a return to Champions League football, a goal that is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve this season. The instability within the coaching staff has hampered progress, creating a disjointed atmosphere on and off the field.
In their statement following Juric’s dismissal, The Friedkin Group expressed gratitude for his efforts, acknowledging the difficult circumstances he faced. They also reassured fans that a new managerial appointment is imminent, signaling their intent to stabilize the team and reignite their campaign. Finding the right coach is now paramount, as Roma’s season hangs in the balance.
Potential Candidates to Replace Juric
As Roma look for a new head coach, they are expected to explore several candidates with different profiles. Here are some potential options who could step in and revive the club’s fortunes:
- Marcelo Gallardo – The Argentine tactician has been out of work since leaving River Plate, where he achieved considerable success with multiple league titles and Copa Libertadores wins. Gallardo’s ability to develop talent and instill a winning mentality could make him a strong candidate for Roma’s top job.
- Maurizio Sarri – Currently managing Lazio, Sarri has a wealth of Serie A experience and is known for his distinctive possession-based style. If Sarri were to be swayed by the Roma project, he could bring tactical discipline and experience to a club that has been yearning for stability.
- Paulo Fonseca – A familiar face, Fonseca previously managed Roma from 2019 to 2021 and could be open to a return. His style suits Roma’s current squad, and his prior understanding of the club’s environment may help him hit the ground running.
- Roberto De Zerbi – Known for his dynamic, high-pressing tactics, De Zerbi has made a name for himself in the Premier League. However, returning to Italy to manage a historic club like Roma could be a tempting offer for the Italian manager.
- Gennaro Gattuso – A passionate coach with Serie A experience, Gattuso is known for his intense, energetic approach to the game. His personality and experience with Italian clubs could provide a short-term boost to Roma’s performances.
The Road Ahead for Roma
With a new manager on the horizon, Roma’s upcoming fixtures will be pivotal in determining the direction of their season. As they sit mid-table in Serie A and near the bottom of their Europa League group, the club is at a critical juncture. Securing wins in their next few matches could restore confidence, while further setbacks may worsen the situation.
Roma’s squad is filled with potential, featuring talented players like Paulo Dybala, Tammy Abraham, and Lorenzo Pellegrini. The key to Roma’s success lies in finding a coach who can maximize this talent and address the team’s weaknesses, particularly in defense.
Fans’ Reactions and Expectations
Roma’s fanbase, known for their passion and loyalty, has watched the team’s struggles with frustration. While they supported De Rossi’s tenure due to his history with the club, there were mixed opinions regarding Juric’s appointment. Now, fans are demanding stability and a clear vision, hoping that the Friedkin Group’s next managerial decision will bring long-term success.
Social media has been abuzz with speculation regarding Juric’s replacement, with fans expressing hope that the club will select a manager with a proven track record in European competition. A section of the fanbase is calling for a return to a defensive, structured approach, while others advocate for an attacking style.
Roma’s Next Chapter
The sacking of Ivan Juric reflects the challenges AS Roma has faced this season, as they struggle to find consistency and leadership. With The Friedkin Group’s ambitions to make Roma a European powerhouse, the club’s next managerial appointment will be crucial. The search for a new manager represents an opportunity for Roma to turn the season around, reclaim a spot in Serie A’s upper echelon, and secure advancement in European competition.
As Roma continue their managerial search, fans eagerly await the next chapter, hoping for a leader who can instill a winning mentality and bring stability to a club that has endured a turbulent season. The coming weeks will be decisive as Roma strive to reignite their campaign, recover from their recent struggles, and re-establish themselves as one of Italy’s top teams.
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