As Roma prepares for one of the most decisive matches of their season, Claudio Ranieri addressed the media with his trademark clarity and composure. With just two days remaining until the critical home fixture against Fiorentina at the Stadio Olimpico, the veteran coach made his stance clear on several pressing topics—from his faith in striker Artem Dovbyk to his own future at the club.
The stakes are high for Roma. A victory against Fiorentina would keep their hopes of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League alive. “La Viola is a top-tier team,” Ranieri warned during the pre-match press conference. “They have all the credentials to progress to the Conference League finals. In their last ten matches, they’ve only lost once, and that was just yesterday. They have excellent players across the board.”
Fiorentina’s strong form heading into this clash is a source of concern for the Giallorossi, but Ranieri’s focus remains fixed on his squad. One player who has drawn significant attention this season is Artem Dovbyk. Despite early skepticism, the Ukrainian striker has gradually won over his critics, and Ranieri made a point of showing his full support.
“I believe in him,” the coach said. “He has made significant progress and still has much to improve, of course—but he’s not a bad buy. We’ve secured the top scorer from last season’s Liga, and he’s already brought us many important points. His first year has been positive overall.” Ranieri, however, did not shy away from honesty, adding that Dovbyk “definitely needs to improve” in certain areas of his game.
While much of the attention was on the tactical and individual elements of the match, one question dominated the end of the press conference: what happens to Ranieri if Roma secures a Champions League spot? Speculation about a potential contract extension or change of plans has been circulating for weeks.
Ranieri was unequivocal. “Nothing will change my mind,” he declared. “I love this team, and it would be a mistake for Roma to change course. A new coach will arrive, and I will assist him in everything he needs from me.” The statement reaffirms Ranieri’s intention to step aside at the end of the season, even if success knocks at Roma’s door.
Meanwhile, the spotlight also remains on young star Matias Soulé, who has enjoyed a stellar April and is among the nominees for Serie A Player of the Month. His performances have been instrumental in keeping Roma’s European dream alive.
With Roma-Fiorentina set to unfold under the floodlights of the Olimpico, the atmosphere promises to be electric. Ranieri’s words reflect both the gravity of the occasion and the calm confidence of a coach who has nothing left to prove—but still everything to give.