Nainggolan Favors New Roma Coach: "He Outperformed Mourinho"

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Post on Apr 28, 2025

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Nainggolan Sides with New Roma Coach: "He's Miles Ahead of Mourinho"

Radja Nainggolan, the fiery former Roma midfielder, has thrown his weight behind the Giallorossi's new manager, publicly declaring that the current coach has already surpassed José Mourinho's tenure. This bold statement ignites debate amongst Roma fans and pundits alike, sparking intense discussion on social media and fueling speculation about the future direction of the club.

Nainggolan, known for his outspoken nature and unwavering loyalty to Roma during his playing days, didn't mince words in his assessment. In an interview with Italian sports outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, he stated, "He's a breath of fresh air. Frankly, he's already outperformed Mourinho. The team plays with a different energy, a different intensity." His comments directly contrast with the often-turbulent and controversial Mourinho era, which, while delivering the Conference League title, was ultimately marked by inconsistency and internal strife.

A Shift in Playing Style and Team Spirit?

The former Belgian international's comments highlight a perceived positive shift in Roma's playing style under the new coach. While Nainggolan didn't explicitly name the current manager, his statement clearly points towards a significant improvement in team morale and on-field performance. This suggests a more collaborative and less confrontational atmosphere within the squad, a stark contrast to some accounts of Mourinho's management style.

• Improved Team Dynamics: Nainggolan's praise suggests a more unified and positive team environment, fostering better player relationships and collaboration.
• Tactical Flexibility: The implication is that the new coach has implemented a more flexible and effective tactical approach, yielding better results on the pitch.
• Increased Player Motivation: A clear boost in player morale and motivation is hinted at, contributing to the improved performance.

Mourinho's Legacy at Roma: A Mixed Bag

José Mourinho's time at AS Roma was undoubtedly eventful. While securing the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy – Roma's first major European title in over half a century – was a significant achievement, it was overshadowed by inconsistent league form and a reported strained relationship with several key players. His intense, often demanding, management style, while effective in some instances, arguably contributed to the internal friction within the squad.

Nainggolan's comments therefore highlight not only the perceived improvement under the new coach but also a critical assessment of Mourinho's impact on the club's overall atmosphere and performance. The comparison underscores a pivotal change in the club's culture.

What the Future Holds for AS Roma

Nainggolan's endorsement is a significant boost for the new coach, adding further momentum to the positive changes observed at the club. Whether this translates into sustained success remains to be seen, but the former midfielder's strong statement certainly reflects a palpable shift in sentiment surrounding AS Roma. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether this change is merely a short-term blip or the start of a more prosperous era for the Giallorossi. The eyes of the Romanisti are firmly fixed on the pitch, eagerly awaiting the unfolding story of Roma's resurgence.