Daniele De Rossi reflects on Genoa defeat and emotional club promotion
Genoa manager Daniele De Rossi has expressed his pride in his team's performance despite a 2-0 home defeat to Como in Serie A on Saturday. The loss, sealed by goals from Tasos Douvikas and Ilaix Diao, leaves Genoa on 39 points with four matches remaining, 11 points clear of the relegation zone. Speaking to DAZN after the match, De Rossi analyzed the key moments, stating that a lack of clinical finishing proved costly.
De Rossi pointed to specific missed opportunities, including a chance for striker Vitinha, as decisive. "Before their first goal we had a good chance with Vitinha, then also another where we intercepted the goalkeeper's pass and we slipped," he said. "The opportunities were not lacking, but in these matches it is the details that make the difference. Against teams like this you have to be more cynical when you get the chance, but the performance of the boys remains positive and a source of pride."
The manager also provided injury updates on two key players. Goalkeeper Justin Bijlow was withdrawn due to a calf issue, while midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi suffered a minor adductor problem. Both will be assessed ahead of next week's fixture. De Rossi praised the contributions of defender Stefano Sabelli and striker David Ekhator, highlighting the latter's intelligent movement and ability to evade the offside trap.
Beyond the match, De Rossi shared personal news concerning Ostiamare, the club he owns. Ostiamare secured promotion to Serie C for the first time in 35 years on the same day. "It excites me, I would have liked to celebrate properly but this defeat troubles me," De Rossi admitted. "We are satisfied with our journey. For Ostia it is a joy not only for football. We will be considered also for football, not only for news events or films." He described the club as his "other family" and expressed his eagerness to join the celebrations.
Looking ahead to his future with Genoa, De Rossi reaffirmed his commitment to the project. "The Genoa fans did not know me, but having entered into this reality makes my heart explode," he said. "Genoa has entered my heart and I want to push so that this team plays with its head held high against the strongest." His comments come amid a generally positive start to his tenure, with the team having secured safety and shown improved resilience. The focus now shifts to building a competitive squad for next season, with the club's transfer strategy expected to align with De Rossi's vision of facing the league's top sides head-on.
