As Brighton is ready to play Roma despite some important players being absent, Roberto De Zerbi stated he does not want to “hear any complaints.”
Albion is travelling to Rome, the eternal city, for their very first European competition knockout match.
For Joao Pedro, the leading scorer in the competition, the first leg of the Europa League round of 16 unfortunately comes too soon. The Brazilian is still dealing with a thigh problem, but he should be back after the upcoming international break. His anticipated return date is March 31 against Liverpool.
In addition, Solly March, Jack Hinshelwood, Kaoru Mitoma, and James Milner are not yet fit. All three are predicted to miss the remainder of the season.
During his pregame press conference, De Zerbi responded to a question regarding Albion’s injury woes, saying, “We can try to compete, or we can cry and complain.” I’ve made it clear to my players that I want no complaints.
“We’ll try it out. We shall act modestly. We are aware of our actions during the past ninety-six months. We are creating history, something this club has never done before.”
The Italian expressed his satisfaction in returning the squad he helped create history to his hometown.
“I’m very proud to be back in my country with my team,” stated De Zerbi.
“I adore this crew so much. This is a team that can lose 3-0 but never gives up. I’m really happy of this squad because they play with hunger and pride.”
In his own press conference, Daniele De Rossi, the head coach of Roma, described De Zerbi as a genius.
“I don’t see myself as a genius, but I see myself better than others,” De Zerbi retorted. It’s true if I try something new without thinking about the possible consequences.”
Asked if Brighton will be fearful of playing in the intimidating Stadio Olimpico, the Albion boss said: “We will see tomorrow about the stadium.
“We played away at Ajax and Athens and won. It’s going to be a test but the crowd should give us an extra boost. This is the team that is most similiar to me in terms of dignity.
“Tomorrow’s game is no more important that Sunday’s game against Nottingham [Forest].”
Although this is the first time the Seagulls have played in a knock-out European match, De Zerbi had experience of a two-legged tie whilst managing FC Shakhtar Donetsk.
“True first time for Brighton not the first time for me,” he said. “It’s going to be 180 minutes of a match. We have strike to right balance of being ourselves but at the same time remember it’s not over when the final whistle goes.”
On the possibility of a return to Italy one day, De Zerbi said: “I do what makes me happy and right now I am happy where I am. It makes me happy me happy when we win but also when we lose. One day I will return to Italy but I don’t know when that day will come.”
