Montella plays waiting game at Roma

Roma coach Vincenzo Montella is still hopeful of retaining the job next season.

The club’s new owners may well be influenced in keeping Montella if Roma can at least draw with relegated Sampdoria on Sunday, which will be enough to earn them a Europa League place.

“I don’t think a decision has been made yet,” Montella said on Saturday.

“I do not know if I have lost ground in terms of my Roma future, but the most gratifying thing for me in these months has been the respect from players and directors.”

Montella faces stiff opposition from a number of candidates, including Chievo manager Stefano Pioli, Didier Deschamps and Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti.

“The meeting with Pioli did not annoy me,” Montella said.

“Maybe it would’ve done had it been over the past three months, but I don’t want to talk about this today.”

“I do not need to put forward my own candidacy and I’m not saying that Roma are the best option for me. In any case, I think I’m still in the running.”

Montella has been linked with a move to Catania, where Diego Simeone does not look certain to stay for next season.

“If this side is in its current position, then perhaps it’s because the players did not fulfil their potential. The next coach will be fortunate to inherit a Roma side with a strong desire to prove itself.

“Has an era come to an end? I don’t know, or rather, it’s not up to me.”

Meanwhile, Pioli has confirmed that he has spoken with new Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini.

“Yes, I’ve met Sabatini,” he told TeleRadioStereo.

“It was a positive meeting, but now we just have to wait and see.”

“Obviously it is pleasing that my work is being recognised by such a prestigious club as Roma.”

“I’ll talk with Sabatini again next week, once I have also held discussions with Chievo.”

“My contract is expiring, but I do have the option to stay for a further campaign. I’ll talk with Chievo, then with Sabatini.”