Mazzone encourages Roma

Carlo Mazzone has described Roma as ‘superior on a technical level’ to Juventus ahead of Sunday’s crucial Serie A clash in Turin.

Roma are sixth in the table, 18 points behind the table-topping Juve, but they are pushing for a Champions League place and have won praise for their style of play this season.

Consequently, Mazzone believes that while Luis Enrique’s men are not without their flaws, he believes they are a better footballing side than the Old Lady.

“Juventus have something more than Roma in terms of physical strength and intensity, but the Giallorossi are superior on a technical level,” the former Roma coach told Radio Mana Mana Sport.

However, Mazzone is anticipating that his old club will adopt a more cautious approach than usual against the league leaders.

“I don’t think Roma will go there to take the initiative, as they have to be more defensive and make the most of the quality of players like Francesco Totti and (Pablo) Osvaldo,” the 75-year-old Italian said.

Regarding Osvaldo, Mazzone argued that Roma did well in selling Mirko Vucinic to Juventus last summer and replacing him with the Buenos Aires-born Italy international, though he praised the Bianconeri for picking up Andrea Pirlo.

“I prefer Osvaldo to Vucinic, as he is proving that he is a genuine hitman,” he said, before turning his attention to the midfield battle.

“I have to ask how could Milan allow Andrea Pirlo to leave on a free transfer. Such a strong and decisive player cannot be let go for nothing.

“That fired up his pride, which is why he’s having perhaps the best season of his career.

“As for Daniele De Rossi, he does well at centre-back, but he should always play in midfield.”