Juric on Roma improvements, texting Friedkin, Dybala’s shape and Pellegrini | OneFootball

Roma coach Ivan Juric insists the Giallorossi are becoming ‘more consistent’ and says the medical staff is doing specific work to get Paulo Dybala in shape as soon as possible.

Juric released an exclusive interview with Corriere dello Sport on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s Serie A fixture against domestic rivals Inter.

Ultras confirmed a new protest against the owners during the match, but Juric remained positive.

“I am not contaminated by negativity. I am fresh, and I am telling you that we are raising the level of play,” he said.

“We are more consistent in games. Internal reactions are fantastic, and we have a great director with whom I communicate well. We share many things, and we want to do well. I am only focused on this. I don’t want to talk about anything else. Now, I want to prepare well for the Inter game.

“We are trying to raise the level. My perception is highly positive.”

A former Genoa player under Gian Piero Gasperini, Juric admitted that the Italian tactician had a big impact in his private and professional life.

“Gasp is the one who knows me the most. I’ve spent many years with him,” he said.

“Honesty and loyalty are the cornerstones of my existence. When I played under Gasp at 27, I thought I knew everything about football and life, but he taught me what they really are.”

A 1-0 Europa League loss to Elfsborg earlier this month raised questions on whether the Croatian CT was the right man to replace Daniele De Rossi.

“In all honesty, I wanted to see the whole team in action that night and understand who I could count on,” said Juric.

“I think we did many good things. I know defeat is unacceptable, but the team has moved well. We were poor in the final third; we wasted many chances and conceded too many counter-attacks. It was due to the midfielders’ positioning. But I can work on it. There is a solid base.”

Fans have criticised Captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, but Juric sees a fantastic attitude in the Italy international.

“Pellegrini has had six or seven goal-scoring opportunities in the last few games,” the coach insisted.

Lorenzo Pellegrini in Elfsborg-Roma (Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty Images)

“What shall I say? He moves like a God, he is fit, he has a fantastic spirit, and he doesn’t hide. He hasn’t scored, and it’s a pity, but he’s had significant chances. This could be a negative moment for him, even with the national team, but his hard work will pay off. I am convinced about it.”

Paulo Dybala is also far from his best shape and missed the most recent game against Monza with a muscular problem.

“His first game and the first half against Athletic Club were fantastic. After that, he had some problems,” Juric admitted.

“With Mark [Sertori, head of performances], we always try to get him in shape. We want to avoid relapses and manage him well. Paulo is marvellous when he plays. We want him to be consistent. Perhaps he won’t play every match, but we want to fix him on a muscular level.”

Is he in direct contact with club owners?

“Yeah, we text each other. I repeat that on my side; I feel in paradise. We share everything. I have an excellent staff, and we are in top condition. The lads work hard and are all motivated. It’s all very positive for now.”

How did he learn Roma had picked him to replace De Rossi last month?

“It all happened quickly, in one day. It was a big opportunity for me after 14 years between Primavera, Serie B and Serie C and eight seasons in Serie A.”

Doesn’t he feel that his job is at risk as his contract runs out in June?

“No, it only comes from outside. This is the pressure, but I am not concerned. I feel great trust from everyone,” Juric concluded.