The Serie A team Roma announced the resignation of CEO Lina Souloukou, following the controversial firing of coach Daniele De Rossi, a beloved figure among fans. Souloukou, who had previously been CEO of Olympiacos, leaves Roma after serving for just over a year, with supporters openly protesting De Rossi’s dismissal. The club released a statement thanking Souloukou for her service during a critical time and wishing her well in her future endeavors.
The decision to fire De Rossi was met with outrage from Roma fans, who view him as a local hero and a symbol of the club. Reports surfaced of Souloukou and her family being placed under police protection due to threats, highlighting the intense backlash against the club’s actions. Some fans displayed a banner at Roma’s training ground labeling Souloukou as “evil,” underscoring the animosity towards her role in the coach’s dismissal.
De Rossi’s abrupt departure was made worse by the swift appointment of Ivan Juric as the new coach, a move seen as underwhelming by supporters. Juric, who has experience managing smaller Serie A teams, faced skepticism from fans who questioned his ability to fill De Rossi’s shoes. The upcoming match against Udinese will be Juric’s first test as coach, with some fans planning a protest by leaving their section of the stadium empty for the first 30 minutes.
Roma’s struggles on the field, coupled with the internal turmoil surrounding De Rossi’s dismissal, have added to the frustration among fans. The team has yet to secure a win this season and currently sits in 17th place in Serie A, narrowly avoiding the relegation zone based on goal difference. The unrest within the club has raised concerns about the direction and stability of Roma, as they navigate through a turbulent period both on and off the pitch.
The controversy surrounding De Rossi’s departure and Souloukou’s resignation highlights the deep connection between fans and their beloved club. The backlash from supporters underscores the importance of respecting club legends and valuing their contributions, as they hold a special place in the hearts of the fans. Moving forward, Roma will need to address the issues that have divided the fan base and work towards rebuilding trust and unity within the organization to ensure a brighter future for the club.
In the midst of turmoil and uncertainty, Roma faces a challenging road ahead as they strive to regain stability and success in Serie A. The departure of Souloukou and the backlash against De Rossi’s firing serve as a reminder of the passion and loyalty of Roma’s supporters, who demand accountability and respect for the club’s traditions. As the team navigates through a period of change and transition, it will be crucial for Roma to find common ground with fans and prioritize the values that have defined the club’s identity for generations.
