Lazio went into the derby in much better shape, with Roma hovering just above the relegation zone on Sunday afternoon as Marco Baroni's Lazio side dreamed of challenging for a top spot. But as always, the Rome derby was a special match, a match in which the unpredictable becomes routine.
Just before kick-off, Claudio Ranieri once again demonstrated why he is considered a legendary coach. Ranieri, known for his ability to inspire and adapt, had publicly backed Pellegrini a few days earlier, saying: “He is among the strongest midfielders in Europe, but he suffers from the fans' booing after a single mistake .”
Ranieri recognized Pellegrini's hunger to play in this crucial match and made the brave decision to start him. The gamble paid off. Just ten minutes later, Pellegrini produced a moment of brilliance: a dazzling move that left three defenders, including Nicolo Rovella, slipping and falling, chasing shadows, before unleashing a sublime strike into the top corner. The goal was more than an engineering marvel; it was a battle cry. His teammates immediately swarmed around him to celebrate, underscoring the respect and affection he has earned on the field, even amid the recent struggles.
Roma's second goal came courtesy of Alexis Saelemaekers, one of the team's standouts this season. The Belgian winger, who has seamlessly integrated into the starting line-up since his arrival in the capital, scored his third goal for Roma, adding two assists. Ranieri has placed a lot of faith in him and the club are reportedly keen to secure his services on a permanent basis.
Saelemaekers already impressed under Thiago Motta in Bologna, but his performances in a Roma jersey indicate that he is developing into a real top player. Other notable contributors to Roma's derby success included Mile Svilar, Mats Hummels and Paulo Dybala.
Although Dybala did not score, his influence was crucial throughout the match, cementing his role as one of the team's crucial players. Despite his age, Hummels proved why he is still one of the most important defenders in the world, something which makes the fact that Ivan Juric previously sidelined him all the more puzzling.
For Roma, this derby win should be more than a temporary triumph; it must serve as the basis for a revival. The Giallorossi cannot afford any missteps for the remainder of the season. As a stable and experienced leader, Ranieri provides a solid foundation, but Roma's future remains uncertain.
With Ranieri stepping down at the end of the season, there has been a lot of speculation about his successor. Names such as Vincenzo Montella and Max Allegri have been put forward, although no official confirmation has emerged. Choosing the next head of Roma's technical department will be a daunting task, especially as Ranieri must juggle coaching duties with his role in shaping the club's future. His challenge is to ensure that this season ends in stark contrast to the disastrous first few months, a period marked by the controversial dismissal of Daniele De Rossi and Juric's mismanagement, including the baffling decision to bench Hummels.
For Pellegrini, this match is a turning point. His magical goal against Lazio has once again made him a central figure for Roma. For the team, the derby should symbolize a new beginning, not an end point. Mistakes are no longer an option, and consistency will be key in pursuing long-term success. For now, Roma is enjoying the derby victory and the revival of their captaincy.
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