De Rossi: 'I'd be like Gerrard'

By Football Italia staff

Daniele De Rossi confirms “I was close to an experience abroad” and hints at following Steven Gerrard to the MLS.

The midfielder is a born and bred Romanista, nicknamed ‘Future Captain’ for when Francesco Totti hands over the armband.

“There were moments in my life when I thought about changing,” he confessed at a book presentation this evening.

“There were moments when I was leaning towards that big leap, but I remained at Roma. In general I am a person who likes to travel, so I would’ve enjoyed an experience abroad and was close to that at some moments in my career.

“I chose Roma, it was a professional choice and I’m happy with that.”

De Rossi had been linked to the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and more recently the American MLS.

This could still be on the cards, as he may follow in the footsteps of his idol Gerrard, who is leaving Liverpool for LA Galaxy.

“As a youngster Gerrard was really a reference point for me, an idol for what he did on the field, but above all off it.

“I would like to end with the same dignity as Gerrard. I want to leave Roma when I am still strong and in good physical shape.

“Roma was my great love and still is. I have a contract until 2017. You’d be surprised how quickly two years go by, but a lot could happen before then.

“When I realise that I am no longer that sharp, I will stop playing and think that I, like Gerrard, will receive a tribute from the fans.”

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