Europa League Showdown: Ranieri Urges Team to Play Fearlessly, Forget the Advantage!

Claudio Ranieri, the gaffer of Roma, is keen for his players to step onto the pitch with liberated minds, casting aside any thoughts of their first-leg advantage. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Europa League clash with Athletic Bilbao, he lavished praise on star man Dybala, noting, “He’s a complete leader, but I’m fortunate to have several leaders who contribute positively to the team.” “I say we must go out and play our game, without fixating on the advantage,” Ranieri stressed. “If we enter thinking a draw is acceptable, we risk losing. We attack as a unit and we defend as a unit.” When asked if the upcoming match represents a crossroads for the season, he replied, “Only time will tell. I always tell the lads to forget the last match, regardless of the outcome. What’s done is water under the bridge; our focus is on tomorrow. After that, I’ve already got the Cagliari videos lined up. I’m not concerned if this is the turning point of our campaign.” Ranieri went on to clarify, “Every match is unique, so we need to play our game without fear.” He concluded, “A good coach is one who makes fewer mistakes. Our strength lies in the players, and I’m lucky to have a talented squad that follows my lead. If I falter, they know it’s in good faith. Having five players who deserve to start but don’t is a real blessing.” Dybala chimed in, stating, “The odds are 50-50.” He noted that with Ranieri’s guidance, he feels empowered to communicate with his teammates, especially the younger lads, lending a supportive voice in tough times. “I don’t yell or kick things in the dressing room; I always aim to offer words of encouragement,” he explained. On the topic of their group dynamic, Dybala described it as “great” with a “balanced” vibe, while he dismissed any notion of his side being favourites for the tie. “The chances of progressing are 50-50. We’re treating this as if it were 0-0; we’re here to play our game without dwelling on last week’s advantage.” He also expressed hope of celebrating his potential 200th career goal. “It would be fantastic to score tomorrow. But if it happens, the main goal is to advance. In matches like this, it’s essential to be less selfish and focus on the good of Roma.” - Resource: "https://www.diretta.it/news/calcio-europa-league-europa-league-ranieri-raccomanda-i-suoi-in-campo-senza-pensare-al-vantaggio/QTfcxCKE/