Ranieri makes Allegri admission on Roma job before sudden backtrack | OneFootball

Roma coach Claudio Ranieri was involved in a light-hearted exchange with a journalist who asked whether Massimiliano Allegri could become his successor at the Stadio Olimpico, as the 73-year-old appeared to admit that the former Milan and Juventus boss is a serious candidate for the job—before backtracking on his comments.

The Giallorossi have yet to confirm who will be on the bench next season, as Ranieri has already announced he will step aside to make room for a new coach.

Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri (L) stands with players as they celebrate their victory after the Italian Cup Final between Atalanta and Juventus at the Olympic stadium in Rome on May 15, 2024. (Photo by Filippo MONTEFORTE / AFP) (Photo by FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images)

Together with director Florent Ghisolfi, the Italian manager is helping the club assess various profiles that could make Roma competitive while also navigating the financial constraints currently limiting their ability to invest.

Genoa coach Patrick Vieira is one of the latest names linked with a potential move to the Giallorossi, while Allegri has also reportedly been under consideration in recent months.

Ranieri hints at Allegri taking Roma job before quick U-turn

When asked about the former Juventus manager’s future during his post-match press conference following Roma’s 1-1 draw with Lazio, Ranieri unintentionally seemed to suggest that Allegri would be working in the Italian capital next season—before clarifying what he actually meant.

“Will you see him here in Rome next year? I think so,” Ranieri said, only to correct himself a few seconds later.

“Wearing a Roma jersey? No, that I don’t know, damn you!” the Giallorossi coach joked.

ROME, ITALY – JANUARY 05: Claudio Ranieri, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and SS Lazio at Stadio Olimpico on January 05, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

“Of course he will find a team in Italy.”

Milan are the other Serie A side to have been linked with a move for Allegri, although their current priority is finding a new sporting director, with Igli Tare considered the frontrunner after the club opted to end their pursuit of Fabio Paratici.