Roma have recently announced that Rudi Garcia will be their new head coach, and the Frenchman revealed that he has big plans for the club.
The former Lille boss will be taking over Aurelio Andreazzoli’s position, as Andreazzoli was only appointed as a temporary coach after the sacking of Zdenek Zeman back in February.
Garcia plans to become close with his new squad and hopes to lead them to European play, with the Champions League being the ultimate goal.
“You can’t say no when Roma call,” he said. “The only regret I have is that I wasn’t able to say goodbye to the Lille fans after years of success together.
“I’m ambitious and we’ll work hard. I am afraid of nothing and I’m here to win with a side that enjoys playing football and entertaining the fans.
“There is a competitive squad here. Now the important thing is that we get back into Europe – if that is through the biggest door [the Champions League] then that would be better.
“To do that I want to get to know all of the squad and then aim to strengthen it.”
The 49-year-old wasn’t the Giallorossi’s first pick as a permanent replacement coach, with Walter Mazzarri and Massimiliano Allegri originally being their primary targets, but this doesn’t matter to him.
“The important thing is not being the first choice for a club, but to impose yourself as a coach,” insisted Garcia.
“I’ve been in contact with Roma for two years and I’m proud to be here.”
The tactician then commented on Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi, and mentioned the need for a new goalkeeper since Maarten Stekelenburg has been sold to Fulham.
“Totti and De Rossi are elements who will be important on and off the pitch. I have a great desire to meet De Rossi, as I do the rest of the squad.
“De Rossi can play in a lot of roles, just give me the time to get to know him. You need talented players and fortunately Roma have them.
“I don’t want to talk about individuals today though. We are working on transfers and you’ll know more soon.
“A great team needs a great goalkeeper and we are working with Sabatini to find one good enough,” he continued. “Nobody will be signed without my consent.
“My footballing philosophy won’t change, if you play good football then your chances of winning increases.”
