Totti Reflects on His Farewell and Relationship with Roma's Friedkin Ownership
At the Teatro Brancaccio, Francesco Totti introduced his latest book titled Oltre. The event gathered notable figures including Vincent Candela, Max Biagi, Noemi Bocchi, his children, and Gian Piero Gasperini.
Over five decades, Totti shared how much love he both gave and received, especially from his family and fans. "It was a simple, beautiful, transparent exchange," he said. He emphasized how playing football was a passion and something he truly enjoyed throughout his career.
A Glimpse Into His Football Philosophy
The former Roma captain spoke about the emotions he conveyed while playing. "For me, this was true love; it's not easy to transform what you feel into action," he explained. He hoped that the passion he held inside reached those watching him.
Facing a Forced Farewell
Totti reflected on the end of his playing days as a difficult and sudden experience. "From one perspective, I felt dead. It was a farewell I didn't want or feel ready for," he admitted. Knowing it would eventually come didn't ease the pain. He criticized the common mindset in football that values players only when they are useful and discards them otherwise.
He described missing the routine tasks he was accustomed to daily. The abruptness left him feeling unsteady. "I was the last to know about the decision, so I accepted it reluctantly," he recalled. As someone sensitive who often retreats inward, he spent time reviewing his 25 years with the club, questioning if he had wronged anyone. The word "dead" echoed his sense of loss after such a long journey with a single shirt.
Support from Gian Piero Gasperini
Via video call, coach Gian Piero Gasperini joined the occasion, earning applause from attendees. Totti expressed gratitude for Gasperini leading Roma back to the Champions League, saying, "Thanks to you, we relive those magical nights Roma deserves." Gasperini returned the sentiment, highlighting the recent match against Real Madrid and the city's enthusiasm, although he regretted not attending in person.
Plans for Attending Upcoming Matches and Scudetto Outlook
When asked if he planned to attend Roma's game against Slovan Bratislava, Totti responded with a lighthearted, "If I find tickets, I'll come." Regarding the team's chances at winning the Scudetto, he gave a cautious reply: "Let's focus on tomorrow," after hearing a strong negative reaction from the crowd.
On Potential Return and Relationship with Friedkin Ownership
The conversation turned to rumors about Totti possibly returning to Roma in some capacity. He did not hide his differences with the Friedkin family, the current owners. "Usually, meetings are two-way, but in seven or eight years, that never happened," he said. Totti pointed out their differing views on life and work, concluding that cooperation requires shared thoughts.
"Either we do things together, or not at all," he stated. For now, the door remains closed but without damaging his connection to the club. He wished the Friedkins success and assured his ongoing support from behind the scenes: "I'm always there for Roma."
