Former Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini has recounted the circumstances surrounding Luis Enrique’s appointment as coach of the club in 2011, and the challenges he faced during his single season in Italy. In an interview with Spanish newspaper AS, Sabatini described how he was initially alerted to Luis Enrique’s potential by agent Dario Canovi, who suggested the then-Barça B manager was seeking an opportunity abroad.
Sabatini dispatched his assistants, Frederic Massara and Pasquale Sensibile, to observe Luis Enrique’s training sessions with the Barcelona reserve team. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the innovative tactical concepts being implemented. Sabatini then compiled a dossier of Luis Enrique’s press conference statements, noting his philosophical approach to the game – “The important thing is not the destination, but the journey to get there.”
He flew to Barcelona to meet with Luis Enrique, quickly becoming convinced of his suitability for the Roma job. Despite the fact that no other Serie A clubs had considered him, Sabatini offered him a contract which he accepted. Sabatini emphasized the transformative effect Luis Enrique had on the team’s training ethic, noting that players like Daniele De Rossi felt they were learning the game anew under his guidance.
The relationship with club icon Francesco Totti proved more complex. Luis Enrique was willing to bench Totti, a decision that drew criticism from fans. Sabatini explained that Luis Enrique was a man of principle who refused to compromise his ideals, even when it meant risking conflict with a beloved figure like Totti. Totti reportedly nicknamed Luis Enrique “Zichichi,” a reference to a famous Italian scientist, indicating a level of respect despite their professional differences.
Luis Enrique ultimately left Roma after one season, reportedly due to feeling offended by insults directed towards his family. Sabatini revealed the club even considered offering him a contract extension, but he declined. The coach took a year-long break before joining Celta Vigo. Sabatini also shared a curious detail about Luis Enrique’s commitment, stating that he regularly cycled to training from his home, despite the considerable distance.
