De Rossi Reflects on Genoa Defeat Amid Personal Joy for Ostiamare Promotion
Genoa manager Daniele De Rossi has reflected on his team's 2-0 home defeat to Como, a result that halted their recent positive momentum in Serie A. Speaking to DAZN after the match, De Rossi conceded his side lacked the necessary cutting edge in a game decided by goals from Como's Anastasios Douvikas and Ibrahima Diao. The loss leaves Genoa on 39 points, 11 points clear of the relegation zone with four games remaining.
De Rossi pointed to missed opportunities as the key factor in the defeat at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. "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 games it's 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 brief updates on the fitness of two players. Goalkeeper Justin Bijlow was withdrawn due to a calf issue, while midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi felt a minor adductor problem. Their conditions will be assessed ahead of next week's fixture. De Rossi praised the contributions of defenders Stefano Sabelli and Tolu Ekhator, highlighting the latter's intelligent movement and ability to beat the offside trap.
Despite the professional disappointment, the day held significant personal joy for De Rossi. His own club, Ostiamare, secured promotion to Serie C earlier in the day, ending a 35-year absence from the third tier. "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 in footballing terms. We will be considered also for football, not only for news stories or films. Now I will go and embrace my other family in Ostia. I am emotional, it just hurts to have lost."
Looking ahead, the former Roma captain expressed his deep connection to Genoa since his appointment. "The Genoa fans didn't know me," he said, "but having entered into this reality makes my heart explode. Genoa has entered my heart and I want to push so that this team plays with its head held high against the strongest sides." The result sees Genoa's two-game winning streak come to an end, while Como's victory strengthens their position in the upper mid-table.
