Ranieri admits Roma are already looking for a new coach

ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Claudio Ranieri, head coach of AS Roma looks on prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on December 7, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Claudio Ranieri admits Roma are already looking for a new coach for 2025-26 and says only Bryan Cristante is unavailable for tomorrow’s Europa League clash against Braga.

The Giallorossi host Portuguese side Braga in a must-win Europa League game on Thursday.

Roma have collected just six points in five matches and are outside the top 20 in the league phase of the competition.

“Everyone has recovered except Cristante,” Ranieri told a pre-match press conference. quoted by TMW.

“We have to give our best in every match; it is the only way to create a competitive spirit. We have to give our best in every match.

“Our fans push the team and I expect Braga to play vertically in European style. I expect a great game between two teams that want to win.”

Matias Soulé, one of Roma’s biggest summer signings, has failed to justify his hefty price tag, while Artem Dovbyk is yet to score in three appearances under Ranieri.

“Soulé is the future. He is a boy who thought he would do the same things he did at Frosinone, but the summer transfer has had an impact. We will try to get the best out of him,” said the Roma boss .

“Dovbyk must recover to its best form. He is still not fully fit. He has to make himself available and we will try to help him get back to his best condition.”

Ranieri admits Roma are already looking for a new coach

What about Lorenzo Pellegrini? The Italy international played 45 minutes against Napoli and then spent the following three games on the bench.

“I haven’t spoken to him but he is more calm during training sessions,” Ranieri revealed.

“He’s training well and coming back to be who he was.”

Ranieri hinted that Dybala may not start against Braga tomorrow.

“The cup game is important and the Como game is important. I will see what I have to do,” he said.

Finally, the Italian tactician admitted that he and the club directors are already looking for a new coach for next season.

Ranieri has signed a contract until June 2025 and will “have input” into the choice of coach for next season.

“We’re looking for a good one. That’s it. We’ll try not to make a wrong choice,” Ranieri concluded.