Gasperini secures historic derby double as Roma close in on Champions League return
Victory over Lazio elevates Roma’s table position and strengthens bond with Curva Sud supporters ahead of decisive Verona qualifier.
Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini has become only the second manager in 50 years to win both Rome derbies in his first season, a milestone that places him in the company of Claudio Ranieri, who achieved the feat during the 2009-10 campaign. The victory against Lazio has significantly improved Roma’s standing in the Serie A table, narrowing the gap to Champions League qualification spots after a five-year absence from the competition dating back to the 2018-19 season.
The win has reportedly transformed the relationship between the coach and the Curva Sud supporters, breaking down previous barriers of coldness that had separated the fanbase from Gasperini, who previously played for Juventus and Atalanta. According to Corriere dello Sport, Gasperini is the second coach in the last half-century to win his first two Rome derbies across all tournaments, with only six other managers in Roma’s history having achieved this specific outcome.
Gasperini has expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to finish fourth in the league, a belief bolstered by the arrival of player Malen, which has provided an incredible boost to Roma’s climb up the table. The coach has granted his team a day off following the derby success as they prepare for a crucial Champions League qualifier in Verona, which serves as the conclusion to the qualification race.
The Giallorossi’s resurgence marks a significant shift in the club’s recent trajectory, moving closer to returning to Europe’s premier club competition. The structural improvement in the team’s performance under Gasperini’s guidance has been evident in their ability to secure high-profile victories and maintain momentum heading into the final stages of the season.
As the club looks to capitalise on this momentum, the focus now shifts entirely to the upcoming fixture in Verona. The result there will determine whether Roma can secure their place in the Champions League, ending the drought that has persisted since the 2018-19 season and validating the strategic direction set by the new coaching staff.
