Lorenzo Pellegrini spoke today at Villa Stuart after having undergone his pre-season medical. These are his words:

Are you also there for the Scudetto?

We have to work hard, we have made purchases but so have the other teams. We have to do something more. The season is long, we have to do better than last year.

Ronaldo?

He is the strongest player in the world. It’s a good thing for Italian football and us younger players.

Nainggolan?

We’re sorry he had to leave, certainly, but beyond the player, we all know he’s guy who was great to have in the dressing room. We must think of ourselves, though – he’s an Inter player.

There have been many arrivals in the midfield, could the new acquisitions push you to leave?

Absolutely not, I want to stay. I know that many players have been purchased, such as Pastore, who will also play as a mezz’ala. In the end, thinking of myself – I believe that if I continue to improve, we will all find space.

John Solano The Editor of RomaPress, John has been covering Italian football as a freelance journalist for over 10 years and has appeared in various publications including ASRoma.com, ESPN, The Liverpool Echo, and more.