Roma owner Ryan Friedkin remains in Rome as Tony D’Amico emerges as frontrunner for sporting director role

Roma owner Ryan Friedkin has remained in Rome for end-of-season governance meetings, a period that coincides with significant shifts in the club’s executive structure. While the squad gathered at the Trigoria training ground to mark their successful qualification for the Champions League, the focus for the ownership group has turned to the club’s sporting direction.

During the meeting at the Fulvio Bernardini stadium, the current coach addressed the team and staff, expressing gratitude for securing European football. He also conveyed the owners’ satisfaction at achieving this objective at the first opportunity under the current regime. However, Friedkin was notably absent from the stadium during these proceedings, leading to speculation that he was engaged in separate, high-level negotiations regarding the club’s future.

Central to these discussions is the impending departure of sporting director Frederic Massara. According to reporting from Corriere della Sera, Atalanta manager Tony D’Amico is now considered the frontrunner to assume control of Roma’s sporting operations. The transition is described as advanced, though it has not yet been formally finalised.

The potential appointment is supported by Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who has played a key advisory role in the process. Gasperini’s endorsement is rooted in his direct professional experience with D’Amico during their time together in Bergamo. The move would see D’Amico replace his current counterpart at Atalanta, Cristiano Giuntoli, should the deal proceed.

Friedkin is expected to hold further meetings in Rome over the coming days to define the club’s strategic path. A discussion between the owner and Gasperini is anticipated as early as today, aiming to solidify the leadership team that will guide Roma’s operations in the coming seasons.