Ranieri made serious statements about Shomurodov on the verge of leaving!

Only four rounds remain until the conclusion of Serie A matches. At the same time, renowned specialist Claudio Ranieri is approaching the end of his mission at Roma. Before his departure, the team faces serious tests—four decisive matches against top-half table clubs: Fiorentina, Atalanta, Milan, and Torino.

These matches might become the last chance for Roma to secure a ticket to the Champions League. The team has been away from this competition for seven years now. Meanwhile, the recent victory over Inter showed that the Rome club is capable of playing without considering the opponent’s reputation.

"Four games like finals"

Before the match against Fiorentina, Ranieri had an open dialogue with the press. He expressed vivid thoughts about the team's condition, Shomurodov's role, and his own future.

"Everything in my team is under control. Only Dybala is unavailable due to injury. Several other players have recovered and returned to training. The key factors in selecting the starting lineup will be the playing style I plan to use and the opponent’s style.

Those who recover better will be on the pitch. Physical readiness and character are among the most important aspects of such a long season. We must treat every match as the last final."

"I don't like making promises, but I always strive"

"I always say—not promises, but action is necessary. I critically evaluate myself and my players. Every player must strive to improve themselves. To avoid regrets later, one must work on oneself daily. Emotions, talk, or excuses do not bring points. Only concentration and discipline lead to results."

About Artem Dovbyk: "He has potential for growth"

"Some adapt quickly, others need more time. Perhaps Dovbyk hasn’t yet fully adapted to Serie A, but he has great potential. A player who was a top scorer in La Liga will find himself here too. Edin Dzeko also showed nothing in his first season but then became the team’s leader. The same will happen with Dovbyk—I believe in him."

"Playing Shomurodov and Dovbyk together? Possibly..."

"I’ve thought a lot about this. Both of them are high-level forwards. Any formation—two, three, or even four forwards—could be effective. They can complement each other. Perhaps we’ll see them together in the starting lineup in upcoming matches."

About Eldor: "Never stops, fights, beloved by fans"

"Eldor Shomurodov is currently one of the most important players in our team. He gives everything he has, leaving all his energy on the pitch. This quality is something I highly appreciate. He runs with all his strength, fights, and never gives up.

Yes, he also makes mistakes. But he never gives up. If needed, he will run to the opposite side of the field. It does not tire him. This attitude is a hallmark of a true footballer. That's why Roman fans deeply love him and appreciate his efforts. He is a golden boy."

"I should not stay"

"Champions League, salary—these won’t keep me here. I want to stay with my heart, but it would be wrong for the team. If I stay for another year, the team will adjust to me, and a new coach will lose time. It’s better that I leave and let a new specialist start working. If he needs help, I’m ready to provide it."

Shomurodov’s performance this season

Let us remind you that Eldor Shomurodov joined Roma in 2021. In the meantime, he played on loan at Spezia and Cagliari. The current season has become the most productive for Shomurodov in Italy. He has participated in a total of 33 matches in Serie A, Coppa Italia, and Europa League, registering 7 goals and 4 assists.

The club trusts him—recently, Eldor’s contract was extended for another year and is now valid until mid-2027.

Do you think Ranieri’s departure is a loss for Roma or the beginning of a new chapter? Will Eldor rise even higher next season? Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!