De Rossi replaces Jose Mourinho as Roma coach

Italian Daniele De Rossi, a legendary former Roma player, will be the new coach of the 'giallorosso' until the end of the current season after the sacking of Portuguese Jose Mourinho.

"After an 18-year playing career with AS Roma, De Rossi will return home as head coach, with his first game being the club's upcoming Serie A match against Verona on Saturday evening at the Stadio Olimpico," said the club on its official website.

“We are happy to be able to hand over the managerial role of AS Roma to Daniele De Rossi, as we feel that the leadership and ambition that have always defined him can prove decisive in achieving the team's objectives until the end of the season,” said Dan and Ryan Friedkin.

The former Italian player appreciated the confidence placed in him and was looking forward to his new challenge. "I would like to thank the Friedkin family for entrusting me with the responsibility of Roma's head coach role. From my side, I know no other way but dedication, daily sacrifices, and giving everything I have in order to face the challenges that await us from now until the end of the season,” said De Rossi.

“The excitement of being able to sit on our bench is indescribable. Everyone knows what Roma means to me. However, the work that awaits us all has already taken precedence. We have no time or choice but to be competitive, fight for our goals, and try to achieve them, which are the only priorities my staff and I have set for ourselves," he added.

At club level De Rossi won the Coppa Italia twice, in 2007 and 2008, along with one Supercoppa in 2007. He made 616 appearances and scored 63 goals for AS Roma in all competitions. After retiring from football, De Rossi joined the Italian national team coaching staff and also to