Ex-Roma man Castan: “It hurts to not see De Rossi at Roma.” | OneFootball

Former Roma defender Leandro Castan discussed his time in the Italian capital and commented on the Giallorossi’s progress this season.

“Totti? I still remember our first meeting in the locker room: the one who introduced us was the general manager Franco Baldini,” Castan told Radio Romanista. “When I shook his hand I got the shivers because I wasn’t just in front of a footballer but a sort of historical figure.”

“Then, however, with time, Totti became Checco for me, a fantastic man who helped me a lot to fit into the group and it was a pleasure to get to know him.”

“De Rossi? I love him so much. He and Francesco had great leadership but while Totti was the leader who didn’t even need to talk, De Rossi communicated much more.”

“Also with him there was a great feeling because he liked being with the South Americans. When I think of Roma I always think of those two and the fact that they are no longer part of the club hurts my heart.”

“There is no logical explanation for De Rossi’s dismissal. He did a great job, his contract had also been renewed, so I didn’t understand the decision to send him away after just four matchdays into the new season.”

“Last year I watched the games with my children and we celebrated a lot also because seeing Daniele on that bench gave me immense pleasure.”

“Can Roma win Europa League? Sure, of course. Ranieri has fixed this team that has good individuals, I really like some players. In my opinion it can be done.”